tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-84188925367851788252024-03-14T20:54:03.449+08:00whatseatingvenusAnonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16161335371441086036noreply@blogger.comBlogger102125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8418892536785178825.post-91761670096537869992015-10-27T09:35:00.000+08:002015-10-27T14:49:57.412+08:00GENDER REVEAL :)<div class="MsoNormal" style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">I love the second trimester! Although
there are still days I just feel tired, generally this has been the best season
of this pregnancy so far. I am able to catch up on my backlogs in terms of
government documents<span style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial;">—</span>SSS, Philhealth,
and BIR. I pay my own remittances and taxes<span style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial;">,</span> so
I really enjoyed and took advantage of the priority lanes. Baby bump is quite
obvious now<span style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial;">,</span> so it's easier to
avail of these without getting s<span style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial;">k</span>eptic
looks and side glances.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><b>CONGENITAL ANOMALY SCAN</b></span></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit;">We initially planned on getting just
a regular 2D ultrasound to know baby's sex. However, after careful
consideration and upon the advice of my OB as well, we considered a CAS might
be better </span><span style="background: rgb(255, 255, 255); font-family: inherit;">to also</span><span style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit;"> know how baby is doing
physiologically. What was initially scheduled at Week 20 was moved to Week 22
to be sure that baby's body parts are bigger and more visible during the scan.</span></div>
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<a name='more'></a><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br />
We had the procedure done at Clinica Manila in SM Hypermarket. Ralph and I had
other tests that needed to be done (including Fasting Blood Sugar)</span><span style="font-family: inherit;"></span><span style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; font-family: inherit;">.</span><span style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; font-family: inherit;"></span><span style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; font-family: inherit;"> </span><span style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; font-family: inherit;"></span><span style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; font-family: inherit;">S</span><span style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; font-family: inherit;"></span><span style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; font-family: inherit;">o</span><span style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; font-family: inherit;"></span><span style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; font-family: inherit;">,</span><span style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; font-family: inherit;"></span><span style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; font-family: inherit;"> </span><span style="font-family: inherit;">we opted to do it somewhere closer to home<span style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial;"> </span></span><span style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; font-family: inherit;"></span><span style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; font-family: inherit;">for lesser travel time </span><span style="font-family: inherit;">and our breakfastless stomachs won't be in
much more agony than they already were.<br />
<br />
It happened on Oct. 7, a Wednesday morning. After blood extraction
and urine collection for our corresponding laboratory tests, we were first in
line for the CAS. It felt like a normal 2D abdominal ultrasound except that
this time, I was sweating (because of excitement) and Ralph was also very
tensed. I remember the look on his face that day. Priceless. This was big deal
for him at the time as he had only experienced baby's kick once or twice. I
realized<span style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial;">,</span></span><span style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; font-family: inherit;"> </span><span style="font-family: inherit;">unlike me, he's craving for this baby. He doesn't
have a feel of what I experience </span><span style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; font-family: inherit;">every day</span><span style="font-family: inherit;">.
He is clueless about the sex and he needed this. He needed to see that this is
real. We have a living baby inside my tummy. I was just looking at him the
whole time and I didn't expect the joy overflowing inside me just to see Ralph
so happy. He was so beautiful that day. So expectant. Like a child that you
can't disappoint because he was waiting on something that will change his life
forever.</span><br />
</span><br />
<div style="font-family: inherit; text-align: center;">
<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><b>ANSWERED PRAYERS</b></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><b>
1. </b></span><b style="font-family: inherit;">IT'S A BOY!</b><span style="font-family: inherit;"> After 30 minutes or so, the scan was complete. Ralph was overjoyed to know
that we're having a baby boy. YAY! While this is news for him, this
was just a confirmation for me. But</span><span style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; font-family: inherit;">, </span><span style="font-family: inherit;"></span><span style="font-family: inherit;">I was grateful and joyful just the same. I myself
have been praying for a boy! It's inexplicable<span style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial;">,</span></span><span style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; font-family: inherit;"> </span><span style="font-family: inherit;">but I knew I'm carrying a boy since the latter part
of the first trimester when nausea and vomiting started to subside. The moment
I felt the quickening at Week 13, I knew it was a baby boy who makes such movements.
And every day since, as I talk to him and play music for him, I just know he's
a HE. Other moms might relate to this but truth be told, I have no way of
explaining it. I might have used the "ugly skin and breakouts" reason
a couple of times but if I'll be honest, that's not the real basis I have for
knowing that I'm carrying a boy.</span></span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIsoRnaXVfMtZ6Xh1Mr0EFp0er6Gx1pTbl3fIunRlGQwaee5nxTTq6O-KsBP9Q3Ht9Mqg-PS2FGH9lIJgH7_BXGJKUvszTO6crIve7kh-SXRFcywnA0wgqUHSRdg6BGccjW5SY9Xq9Hq8/s1600/baby+boy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="color: black; font-family: inherit;"><img border="0" height="290" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIsoRnaXVfMtZ6Xh1Mr0EFp0er6Gx1pTbl3fIunRlGQwaee5nxTTq6O-KsBP9Q3Ht9Mqg-PS2FGH9lIJgH7_BXGJKUvszTO6crIve7kh-SXRFcywnA0wgqUHSRdg6BGccjW5SY9Xq9Hq8/s400/baby+boy.jpg" width="400" /></span></a></div>
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<br /><b>
2. BABY IS VERY HEALTHY.</b> Aside from knowing we're having a little Ralph, I was (still is!) also
ecstatic and so relieved to know that baby is perfectly healthy. The size of
all his body parts is perfect for his age. Unlike mine, his heart is VSD-free
and actually very healthy! No murmurs or weird sounds like his mom’s hehe.
Praise the Lord! I admit, I might have skipped on the prenatal vitamins and
other supplements one too many times in the earlier weeks of this
pregnancy that it got me so worried that it might have an effect on baby's
development. I was also throwing up almost everything I tried to take in<span style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial;">,</span><span style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial;"></span> which translates to almost zero nutrients for
me and the baby. I'm so blessed to know that God took care of his growth inside
no matter how ugly the situation was for me outside.<br />
<br /><b>
3. OUR BIRTHING TEAM.</b> The first trimester had been a struggle for me not only because of hyperemesis gravidarum<span style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial;">,</span> but also because I was a little stressed on
where to give birth. I have no problem with the facility. I can give birth
anywhere<span style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial;">—</span>lying in clinic, hospital, or
even at home! For some hippie reasons, I prefer the latter. <span style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial;">It’s just that</span> my cardiologist insisted
that I get care from a tertiary hospital<span style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial;">—</span>which
left us with not much options if we were to consider factors like proximity to
home and hospital rates. But that was just one (and secondary) concern. My main
concern that time was the birthing team I'll be working with. I wasn't very
happy with my then-current OB because I was not 100% supported when I mentioned
about my birth plan (more of this in a separate post). The moment she
questioned my choices in giving birth was the moment I knew I can't work with
her. I can't entrust my birthing process to someone who doesn't trust my
ability to give birth. Hence, the decision to switch OBs and hospital for that
matter.<br />
<br />
After weeks of research and prayer, I have finally met the <span style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial;">godsend</span> who will take care of us from
this day until delivery. Dr. Menefrida Reyes of St. Lukes Quezon City is a
mother and carer more than a doctor. I have read so much about her online and
there's one thing to say after finally meeting her<span style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial;">—</span>the
hype is real<span style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial;">!</span> Maybe I can elaborate
on this more as we go through the process of prenatal care together. I
basically just want to share how overjoyed I was to finally find someone who is
an encourager and an advocate of Gentle Birth. I find so much comfort in
knowing that we will be taken care of and won't be treated as business. God is
so good for leading us to her. </span></span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgaDoyVdFxDEE058VyJaMtuFcAo-A4YXXjNuI9kTvCaqVmsut4Ckli8XOTc_9Nh10OUAH7LPy1pUDukxdY8hUTVTiYAmkdRQ_dS59jZ4s_n_Ns9DUf2UGtGag9KULmzW4ARopAS_Q3a3-g/s1600/birthing+class.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="color: black; font-family: inherit;"><img alt="doula philippines, doula, menefrida reyes, gentle birth, prenatal yoga, spinning babies, prenatal exercise" border="0" height="315" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgaDoyVdFxDEE058VyJaMtuFcAo-A4YXXjNuI9kTvCaqVmsut4Ckli8XOTc_9Nh10OUAH7LPy1pUDukxdY8hUTVTiYAmkdRQ_dS59jZ4s_n_Ns9DUf2UGtGag9KULmzW4ARopAS_Q3a3-g/s640/birthing+class.jpg" title="doula philippines, doula, menefrida reyes, gentle birth, prenatal yoga, spinning babies, prenatal exercise" width="640" /></span></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8EK55M1BRMuAtUAvNdS7X6EtFRW4cusXhuKEIpPrNqVY2-F4HBB9glykC6qLUpcrZUuGBnQwmMEsdayU-lYSbOVz4I4BhyphenhyphenVwWVBXu8UGnxiHPVfHEvck13V5pHLq57uobviJ6geDK2eY/s1600/prenatal+exercise.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="color: black; font-family: inherit;"><img alt="doula philippines, doula, menefrida reyes, gentle birth, prenatal yoga, spinning babies, prenatal exercise" border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8EK55M1BRMuAtUAvNdS7X6EtFRW4cusXhuKEIpPrNqVY2-F4HBB9glykC6qLUpcrZUuGBnQwmMEsdayU-lYSbOVz4I4BhyphenhyphenVwWVBXu8UGnxiHPVfHEvck13V5pHLq57uobviJ6geDK2eY/s400/prenatal+exercise.jpg" title="doula philippines, doula, menefrida reyes, gentle birth, prenatal yoga, spinning babies, prenatal exercise" width="400" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">As seen in the photos above, another highlight of the second trimester would be the birthing class we attended -- BINHI. It's a whole-day learning session facilitated by the <a href="https://www.facebook.com/PinayDoulasCollective?fref=ts" target="_blank">Pinay Doulas Collective</a> last October 17, at The Renaissance Tower in Ortigas. What a fun and informative way of learning how to prepare for labor and how paramount knowledge on <a href="https://www.facebook.com/groups/homebirthing/" target="_blank">Gentle Birth</a> is to achieve a successful and beautiful birthing experience.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">Now that we are about to welcome the third and final </span>trimester<span style="font-family: inherit;"> in a few weeks, I can't help but feel sentimental about so many things. The Lord God in heaven has been so good to us. If you remember, I mentioned in my last post <a href="http://whatseatingvenus.blogspot.sg/2015/08/happy-news.html" target="_blank">how this pregnancy came as a surprise</a>. We are not exactly prepared for this in so many aspects. But the Lord has been pulling miracles in the background to make things easier for us. Hubby and I tend to always have something to worry about every day. Decisions have to be made before this ticking time bomb that is my baby bump explodes in a few months. The pressure is on and admittedly, we won't enjoy this season one bit if we don't pass the burden to the Almighty One. Do we leave this apartment? Can we afford a car now? Did we make the right move in switching hospitals? Is our bank account sufficiently funded? Questions left and right. So many uncertainties. But the Lord is so loving for carrying us through day in and day out. We lift everything to Him because there's no better way to do it. We'll definitely lose our sanity the very day we choose to take charge. </span></div>
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<span style="color: #4c1130; font-family: inherit;">Psalm 55:22</span></div>
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<span style="color: #4c1130; font-family: inherit;"><span style="background-color: white; line-height: 24px;">Cast your cares on the </span><span class="small-caps" style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; box-sizing: border-box; font-variant: small-caps; line-height: 24px;">Lord</span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #4c1130; font-family: inherit;"><span class="indent-1-breaks" style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; box-sizing: border-box; line-height: 0;"> </span><span class="text Ps-55-22" style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; box-sizing: border-box; line-height: 24px; position: relative;">and he will sustain you;</span></span></div>
<span style="color: #4c1130; font-family: inherit;">
<span class="text Ps-55-22" style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; background-color: white; box-sizing: border-box; line-height: 24px; position: relative;"></span></span>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #4c1130; font-family: inherit;"><span class="text Ps-55-22" style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; background-color: white; box-sizing: border-box; line-height: 24px; position: relative;">he will never let</span></span></div>
<span style="color: #4c1130; font-family: inherit;"><span class="text Ps-55-22" style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; background-color: white; box-sizing: border-box; line-height: 24px; position: relative;">
</span><span class="indent-1" style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; background-color: white; box-sizing: border-box; line-height: 24px;"></span></span>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #4c1130; font-family: inherit;"><span class="indent-1" style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; background-color: white; box-sizing: border-box; line-height: 24px;"><span class="indent-1-breaks" style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; box-sizing: border-box; line-height: 0;"> </span><span class="text Ps-55-22" style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; box-sizing: border-box; position: relative;">the righteous be shaken.</span></span></span></div>
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</span></span><br />
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<span class="indent-1" style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; background-color: white; box-sizing: border-box; line-height: 24px;"><span class="text Ps-55-22" style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; box-sizing: border-box; position: relative;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></span></span></div>
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<span class="indent-1" style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; background-color: white; box-sizing: border-box; line-height: 24px;"><span class="text Ps-55-22" style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; box-sizing: border-box; position: relative;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Leaving you with this scripture to carry you through whatever situation you might be in. May you have an awesome week as we kiss October goodbye. :)</span></span></span></div>
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Unknownnoreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8418892536785178825.post-24167112186773496282015-08-03T06:30:00.001+08:002015-08-03T06:30:11.783+08:00HAPPY NEWS! <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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If you've been following this blog, you would know that I've been MIA for more than a year -- a year and a half to be exact. I wouldn't bore you with reasons but trust me, there's a lot. Also, this means you will have to read at your own risk. There's a myriad of thoughts I'm trying to organize right now and you know how much I fail at it when I get excited, like I am right now.<br />
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If you have not heard the rumors yet nor have seen the hints dropped in different social media platforms (Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram).. <span style="color: #20124d;">YOUR BLOGGER IS NOW A BABY MOMMA!!!</span><br />
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<a name='more'></a>We are so happy to announce that the gracious Lord God in heaven has blessed my womb with a little angel. I am on my 13th week of pregnancy as of this writing and you have no idea how much I resisted to randomly make the announcement on Facebook when I was online almost 24/7. It's like word vomit waiting to be thrown up and I literally had to disconnect from the internet every time!<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEYaaTBpcIO8AY99KyaruvtGt-CqdKh9IvjGIFlqKNVinEjAP-3FDV292yLeDuPHEQm97AGyaWkVuRaMF-m-urXXztCHoQhn4wxeuFHxOnLCAD_3_VMpCElcH2Ef85eEaKMckWRlU2VP0/s1600/11846387_10207214955994061_1250370635_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="difficult pregnancy, what happens during first trimester, first trimester blues" border="0" height="302" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEYaaTBpcIO8AY99KyaruvtGt-CqdKh9IvjGIFlqKNVinEjAP-3FDV292yLeDuPHEQm97AGyaWkVuRaMF-m-urXXztCHoQhn4wxeuFHxOnLCAD_3_VMpCElcH2Ef85eEaKMckWRlU2VP0/s400/11846387_10207214955994061_1250370635_n.jpg" title="" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Our little heartbeat at 6 weeks and 5 days. It was so surreal to see <br />
someone else's heart beating inside my body.</td></tr>
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We learned about it pretty soon, actually. Between weeks 4 and 5. Now you might be wondering why we chose to delay making it public. We have reasons too and let me share some with you.<br />
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<b>(1) It wasn't planned.</b> I know, I know. That sounds ridiculous because we've been married for 2 years. But that's the fact. We were waiting until the end of the year to start trying because we have other things we want to achieve before the year ends which goes without saying we were still taking control over our bedroom situation. So WE (or was it just I because someone is apparently sneaky and has other plans?) were sort of anticipating that I'll most likely get pregnant either by the end of the year or early next year. I am such a planner (hence my full-time career -- which we'll save for another post). It has always been in my character. Between Ralph and I, it's me who's more wired to anticipate and just draw what I want to happen in the future and how I want them to unfold. Stems from my being a congenital control-freak, I guess? But obviously, the Lord has better plans. It excites me when His deviates from mine. It very much shows how our capacity to know what's best for us is limited.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNQenu926qBR_TwIwNMkWQIS4_Dfa75bK6nM7zl07Nwp3P3e86aRJ2350DO6SfWz2tFpu3kaycus789nviU86LTsw0uyeragXDI-3WB2HvBJ2AD571QINAY2BLB-1zF3ptokQTYhd2WK4/s1600/11798085_10207215043956260_1299305415_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="display: inline !important; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="pregnancy announcement, pregnancy announcement ideas" border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNQenu926qBR_TwIwNMkWQIS4_Dfa75bK6nM7zl07Nwp3P3e86aRJ2350DO6SfWz2tFpu3kaycus789nviU86LTsw0uyeragXDI-3WB2HvBJ2AD571QINAY2BLB-1zF3ptokQTYhd2WK4/s320/11798085_10207215043956260_1299305415_n.jpg" title="" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">our little shy one, hehe</td></tr>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrsrCjMX7_Zmb5Z3bK66wb9eLxbCaQEAqzzpB48SGWRTEb0GGDAlRSFCvHaz0jw8HB3gPzsp5v-thvmb9agZ_7pZciL6tUGYi9OvA57emLVeLYLjcMq6AjmM5IKzgkuKxzUv4P_5Ndno8/s1600/11824038_10207214954154015_955391615_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrsrCjMX7_Zmb5Z3bK66wb9eLxbCaQEAqzzpB48SGWRTEb0GGDAlRSFCvHaz0jw8HB3gPzsp5v-thvmb9agZ_7pZciL6tUGYi9OvA57emLVeLYLjcMq6AjmM5IKzgkuKxzUv4P_5Ndno8/s320/11824038_10207214954154015_955391615_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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So you see, it came as a shock that after 3 days of very light spotting which I thought was just my period (but turned out to be <i>implantation bleeding </i>already) I tested positive both in home pregnancy kit and hospital blood serum test last June 7. We were in Cloud 9 for a couple of days. We couldn't believe it. We're having a baby.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhiX3tgyt9OcUjA2oVM7SOAZ2uoeUcSAeOsWllo5vMiWbP5VuQTdUy1Px_NN8S-HAxmnYeIaZbDQ6sTqF1s62JrJRfyzVaWiXaE1oHWSdUxPdEEgkbIan1Yj0eurdvQBebUBKzlK9Y3n90/s1600/11815813_10207214955754055_1439255378_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhiX3tgyt9OcUjA2oVM7SOAZ2uoeUcSAeOsWllo5vMiWbP5VuQTdUy1Px_NN8S-HAxmnYeIaZbDQ6sTqF1s62JrJRfyzVaWiXaE1oHWSdUxPdEEgkbIan1Yj0eurdvQBebUBKzlK9Y3n90/s400/11815813_10207214955754055_1439255378_n.jpg" width="395" /></a></div>
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<b>(2) The first few weeks were difficult.</b> I was on my 5th week when I first had my ultrasound and they found subchorionic hemorrhage surrounding the gestational sac (where the fetus is supposed to grow). On our way home from the hospital, my knees were shaking. We knew what bleeding in pregnancy could mean. Truth be told, every bit of me panicked but I did my best to maintain a strong facade. I was afraid to show my fear even to Ralph. I realized that THAT was the beginning of the season in my life where I have to practice <span style="color: #20124d;">faith over fear</span> on a whole new level because the things to come could get really out of my control. Armed by my strong belief that God is faithful and that He is all-knowing and all-powerful, I followed the doctor's advice to lie low with my business and just rest at home until the bleeding stops. Well, guess what? Despite taking all the vitamins and necessary drugs for weeks, my spotting continued. And worse, symptoms started kicking in. I had nausea whole day everyday. I was throwing up. My stomach wouldn't allow anything to stay there for 5 minutes. Equipped by my 2 favorite pregnancy apps -- WebMD and Babycenter -- I learned the technique of eating only bland food like crackers almost every hour. So on my 6th week, I was on a no rice diet. I couldn't take the smell of any viand Ralph would cook for me. My sense of smell had gone ballistic that even opening the fridge triggered vomiting.<br />
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See, as much as we want all our friends and the whole universe to celebrate the good news, I couldn't get myself to let them know because what came as initially "the best news of our lifetime" turned out to be a daily battle that will change my life forever.<br />
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<b>(3) We weren't emotionally ready.</b> We, Ralph and I, had some things we had to deal with involving our relationship as husband and wife -- some new responsibilities, change of plans, change of budget, change of schedule, CHANGE OF MOOD! We had (and still have) so many adjustments to make and things happened so fast that we weren't able to talk about them properly before they even started happening. You get the picture. I'm always nauseated and tired and sleepy while he's always exhausted juggling both work and household chores and feeding me and keeping me fed. Not a good picture.<br />
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So again, it felt weird to be celebrating with the world when we haven't even figured out yet how to behave like responsible spouses and parents-to-be.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivDx2syx-d4v5vNZ-qZ1VYqDYIrN_Rz5HxLYQDR0fd_OwyhAfKw3sJMSP-sAe5f_cFSCqoJkk4VocbLC8_ulK7vIalSV9qdn69QNm6ghm5HcptohLha3pXycoDqiumVe9IZfb2Ask1pjA/s1600/GOPR0944.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivDx2syx-d4v5vNZ-qZ1VYqDYIrN_Rz5HxLYQDR0fd_OwyhAfKw3sJMSP-sAe5f_cFSCqoJkk4VocbLC8_ulK7vIalSV9qdn69QNm6ghm5HcptohLha3pXycoDqiumVe9IZfb2Ask1pjA/s640/GOPR0944.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">We didn't know we were already 3 here! no wonder I was already bloating in Sagada and my thighs felt like <br />
they weren't mine!</td></tr>
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<b>(4) There's a certain satisfaction in keeping something as special as this to ourselves.</b> Although technically not to ourselves exclusively because immediate family and some really close friends were told about it. We needed their prayers, that's why. But people have always known me to be an open book. I don't usually keep secrets (hence the personal blog). But you know, this is different kind of news. We wanted a time to completely absorb the joy before letting other people know simply because to us it's not just an answered prayer. It's a dream come true. I have always known I'll get married and raise kids someday and here it is. Dreams becoming reality one at a time. Ahhh! I can't help but be amazed at how God works in my life, in our lives!<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsEeM70URSeGbWS-hN953hcA-w4pzVuOZvJHlS7FIcnYEx1wbIlako9Yyu1PeYKYAMc6dG_M3qPMpyYJ4LYZ3TBDVWaDKLjh50BRC27Z4MV0i3ozuTkuT_vQC16-tJZAssN2NosLenWOc/s1600/11805903_10207214974234517_234623137_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsEeM70URSeGbWS-hN953hcA-w4pzVuOZvJHlS7FIcnYEx1wbIlako9Yyu1PeYKYAMc6dG_M3qPMpyYJ4LYZ3TBDVWaDKLjh50BRC27Z4MV0i3ozuTkuT_vQC16-tJZAssN2NosLenWOc/s400/11805903_10207214974234517_234623137_n.jpg" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Oh, hello there baby lemon! :) </td></tr>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNYuSQWOSEDHPG90TVZOoF-uQatQr081mHITvtLYWFQphE8uokaOenTwZXgLfxplP2hHD6kf4qK-9pZxH4wUO7qJ1qaBJGLpgakpLeesSUtRCvqxHu-1TuFAmWzo6kvVvcGUQ3-L_fgM8/s1600/11798587_10207214974394521_1772135764_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNYuSQWOSEDHPG90TVZOoF-uQatQr081mHITvtLYWFQphE8uokaOenTwZXgLfxplP2hHD6kf4qK-9pZxH4wUO7qJ1qaBJGLpgakpLeesSUtRCvqxHu-1TuFAmWzo6kvVvcGUQ3-L_fgM8/s400/11798587_10207214974394521_1772135764_n.jpg" width="300" /></a><br />
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So there, folks. After 2 months in hiding (read: bed rest and house arrest for 2 months with only 3 trips to the hospital, 3 mall visits, and 1 high school reunion attendance.. RECORD BREAKING! No wonder I almost lost my sanity), I'm finally out of the shell. I'm glad my first trimester is over (and so are the bleeding and morning sickness which I won't miss, by the way). I hope you can include us in your prayers. To our immediate family and close friends, thank you so much for standing in prayer with us as we brave the most critical and crucial period (so far) of this pregnancy! We are overwhelmed by your love and support. Today, I'm still salivating like a mad woman and heartburn still attacks so frequently I'm starting to get used to it but hey, we made it past the most disoriented 3 months of my life! Six more months and we're ready to pop!<br />
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P.S. I feel bad for the bajillion write-ups still sitting on my drafts for more than a year now. Friends, when all is back to normal (if there's such a thing in pregnancy and motherhood), we'll have some catching up to do. For now, I just feel like celebrating for this one. Cheers!<br />
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<i><br /></i>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8418892536785178825.post-16281834002702946312014-01-30T09:21:00.001+08:002014-01-30T09:40:29.883+08:00Crabtree & Evelyn Facial Blotting Tissue<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhztGe3laKd8V_GyAgHFSTe73p-23DLLtog-d5QUx3xTrqMlL_F-_eJKK60ESP5aFMFfZYO1n5xUGPtAlK34x45IDR-mmIUnOC6Ff90pAw_dsAvmwFdWEbnVeM5ER4b0rzjQe25F37oYi8/s1600/crabtree+&+evelyn+facial+blotting+tissue.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="crabtree & evelyn facial blotting tissue, crabtree & evelyn oil blot review, crabtree and evelyn how much, crabtree & evelyn philippines" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhztGe3laKd8V_GyAgHFSTe73p-23DLLtog-d5QUx3xTrqMlL_F-_eJKK60ESP5aFMFfZYO1n5xUGPtAlK34x45IDR-mmIUnOC6Ff90pAw_dsAvmwFdWEbnVeM5ER4b0rzjQe25F37oYi8/s1600/crabtree+&+evelyn+facial+blotting+tissue.jpg" height="480" title="" width="640" /></a></div>
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This has been in my kikay pouch for some time now (hence the decrepit pack). If you have been reading my blog, specifically the very rare <a href="http://whatseatingvenus.blogspot.com/search/label/beauty" target="_blank">beauty entries</a>, you'd know I have an oily skin type. Hence, an oil blotting tissue is almost always the most needed tool I can't leave the house without -- <a href="http://whatseatingvenus.blogspot.com/2013/08/review-kleenex-facial-oil-blotter.html" target="_blank">Kleenex Oil Blotter</a> to be exact. I have made a review on that in case you have not read it yet.</div>
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This time, let me make a brief review on <span style="color: #20124d;">Crabtree & Evelyn's Facial Blotting Tissue</span>. No, I didn't buy this pack. It was gifted to me by our company president upon learning that these are staple for my daily battle against excessively shiny face. Anyway, as of this writing, I still have not fully utilized the pack as I still have an existing stash of Kleenex on hand. However, I just couldn't wait to share already how good this particular product is when I tried using it a couple of times last week.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMYnRGVBi2eMRXouao7ObkhQNHG0TAPCaSiP4SlbS0UWjBBO1LyTQ3U8fVvJIRe9VrkiBWC6D9WGeYd0vY5iOl3Q9iD0FLtTuSojPzg51ZsrQh6dLTaaHG4PT1TZcQaD-CQHdq-M0WG2c/s1600/crabtree+and+evelyn+facial+blotting+tissue.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img alt="crabtree & evelyn facial blotting tissue, crabtree & evelyn oil blot review, crabtree and evelyn how much, crabtree & evelyn philippines" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMYnRGVBi2eMRXouao7ObkhQNHG0TAPCaSiP4SlbS0UWjBBO1LyTQ3U8fVvJIRe9VrkiBWC6D9WGeYd0vY5iOl3Q9iD0FLtTuSojPzg51ZsrQh6dLTaaHG4PT1TZcQaD-CQHdq-M0WG2c/s1600/crabtree+and+evelyn+facial+blotting+tissue.jpg" height="480" title="" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYuKib60vOT6w18ozoOSFgvDESvgSjKW3D3bgn_ol6bDIXcOJi4R3JlI-mS5DkaCsxBAPWBd24n0X8XGgUaEEBQgNaRzlT-Jo0Mo9fpB0pPwOXoZnjXxjr_Cz7AJbde-hzsM_aX9HIiRQ/s1600/crabtree+&+evelyn+facial+blotting+tissue+versus+kleenex.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="crabtree & evelyn facial blotting tissue, crabtree & evelyn oil blot review, crabtree and evelyn how much, crabtree & evelyn philippines" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYuKib60vOT6w18ozoOSFgvDESvgSjKW3D3bgn_ol6bDIXcOJi4R3JlI-mS5DkaCsxBAPWBd24n0X8XGgUaEEBQgNaRzlT-Jo0Mo9fpB0pPwOXoZnjXxjr_Cz7AJbde-hzsM_aX9HIiRQ/s1600/crabtree+&+evelyn+facial+blotting+tissue+versus+kleenex.jpg" height="556" title="" width="640" /></a><br />
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<b><span style="color: #20124d;">(+)</span></b></div>
<ol>
<li>It has a <span style="color: #073763;"><b>powder side</b></span> which is very efficient for when I don't only try to avoid the shine but also want to look fresh and newly made up. Not to mention the powder coverage was not bad at all. Think powder foundation coverage. Very very impressive.</li>
<li>Though it doesn't have something like the velvety lining that Kleenex has, the <span style="color: #073763;"><b>grease still won't get through the other side</b></span>. Hence, oil doesn't reach your fingers.</li>
<li>Each <span style="color: #073763;"><b>strip is a little thicker</b></span> than what I'm used to so much so that they don't get easily dilapidated when pressed on the skin repetitively. </li>
<li>As seen in the photo above, it's a little smaller in size compared to <a href="http://whatseatingvenus.blogspot.com/2013/08/review-kleenex-facial-oil-blotter.html" target="_blank">Kleenex</a> which makes it <span style="color: #073763;"><b>more handy but not necessarily less effective</b></span>. </li>
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<b><span style="color: #20124d;">(-)</span></b></div>
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<li>The product is <span style="color: #073763;"><b>not very accessible</b></span>. Unlike the other mainstream brands, you can't just buy this in any drugstore, supermarket, or department store. As far as research is concerned, here in Metro Manila, their stores are at Greenbelt 1, EDSA Shangri La Mall, Robinsons Place, Trinoma, and Mega Mall. And we're not even sure if those stores actually have supplies of these blotting tissue.</li>
<li>Being that it's not a local brand, it's <span style="color: #073763;"><b>relatively pricey at ~6$</b></span> for a pack of 65 sheets (according to my Google search). </li>
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Have you tried using this yet? Or any Crabtree & Evelyn product for that matter? I'd love to hear from you!</div>
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Unknownnoreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8418892536785178825.post-7766242905872315332014-01-27T13:51:00.000+08:002014-01-30T09:45:53.786+08:00Woman of Worth: Angelyne Calica<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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For this particular WOW entry, I'm keeping it short, sweet, and simple. I'm featuring someone very close to my heart. Someone really dear to me.</div>
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This is Angelyne. I call her Angge. We call each other "bez" (Yes, with the Z. Do you have problems with that? LOL) She is one of the most amazing women I know. Our friendship goes a long way back, like more than a decade. Yes, we fought the awkward years of puberty hand in hand and conquered the jologs era together. However, in those years, I might have failed to express how much I value her in my life. I am just so proud of what a person she has become through the years. She is the epitome of<span style="color: #20124d;"> loyal, supportive, and loving</span>. She<span style="color: #4c1130;"> listens without judgment </span>but never tolerates what is wrong. For some reason, she is gifted with the ability to rebuke and correct without sounding offensive. Maybe it's her <span style="color: #0c343d;">gentleness and sincerity</span>. More importantly, she knows how to make me feel blessed with everything that I have. She supports me in everything. Boy, she's almost as supportive as my mom! Anyway, today is her birthday and so I'm devoting this little love spot for her.<br />
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My prayer is for her to be in a strong and steady relationship with God and for her to continuously thrive in her dreams to be a triathlete someday. Needless to say, she is truly a beautiful person inside and out -- a <a href="http://whatseatingvenus.blogspot.com/2013/09/woman-of-worth-manuela-basilio.html" target="_blank">woman of worth</a>!<br />
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Happy birthday beloved sister from another mother! Cheers to the many more decades of random tweets, spontaneous dinners, much needed swim sessions, and sneaky phone calls. I love you to bits! ♥<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnuNSaBeBfVP18o46BxQj5EKVmwtFVvneOvappA2RIJqC2BUwtYRUOzeVu_7H7EmZFXu9ZwZ6vAMN56uQWruaOiqmPbsZkuqbMo9Z9Eh5U4FArol83eB-yADVgMidG9sZr6aPeDKEsAUo/s1600/wildflour+podium+cronuts.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em;"><img alt="wildflour cronut, wildflour croissant donut, wildflour podium, wildflour bgc, wildflour cronut stop production, wildflour to stop making cronuts" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnuNSaBeBfVP18o46BxQj5EKVmwtFVvneOvappA2RIJqC2BUwtYRUOzeVu_7H7EmZFXu9ZwZ6vAMN56uQWruaOiqmPbsZkuqbMo9Z9Eh5U4FArol83eB-yADVgMidG9sZr6aPeDKEsAUo/s1600/wildflour+podium+cronuts.jpg" height="339" title="" width="640" /></a></div>
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If you haven't heard yet, <span style="color: #20124d;">Wildflour Cafe and Bakery</span> <a href="http://www.abs-cbnnews.com/lifestyle/01/13/14/wildflour-stop-selling-cronuts" target="_blank">will stop producing the famous croissant-donut hybrid</a> effective end of this month. Needless to say, when this news reached my workplace, the girls and I had a mini heart-attack and some sort of panic. We came to an agreement to sample the intriguing pastry before it gets lost to oblivion. We did so last Monday at Podium.</div>
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So they have a relatively wider choices of flavors, not all of which were available during our visit. We were able to sample <span style="color: #660000;">Strawberry</span>, <span style="color: #4c1130;">Mixed Berries</span>, <span style="color: #783f04;">Vanilla </span>and the bestseller <span style="color: #7f6000;">Dulce de Leche</span> as shown respectively below.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6i3j1bXej6KVxAjtqNrEyV2b1CmlJIKh4QL4JH2iBm3labTJj6ph_cz1WafteKi3xLbLqrWWM-XTt3d9Psk1LTtpZReZ7cA9HCgcw5mo-Zn65WOKkUHoJChkGfKHT2fcTbrvmN4GpQ10/s1600/wildflour+croissant+donut.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="wildflour cronut, wildflour croissant donut, wildflour podium, wildflour bgc" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6i3j1bXej6KVxAjtqNrEyV2b1CmlJIKh4QL4JH2iBm3labTJj6ph_cz1WafteKi3xLbLqrWWM-XTt3d9Psk1LTtpZReZ7cA9HCgcw5mo-Zn65WOKkUHoJChkGfKHT2fcTbrvmN4GpQ10/s1600/wildflour+croissant+donut.jpg" height="640" title="" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiaBijdYhMVuUzCkBUsJaRorkeFYnpb7BwuovJftSOFiMayd1DDlRt-3Fx5FT6KXyxhNV01O6n5j4XIwDhSpZfPwZInxjak7LRtx43WBObSIwECbVlsVKtIanYIs61pRJnyPtOeIWEI84U/s1600/wildflour+croissant+doughnut.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="wildflour cronut, wildflour croissant donut, wildflour podium, wildflour bgc" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiaBijdYhMVuUzCkBUsJaRorkeFYnpb7BwuovJftSOFiMayd1DDlRt-3Fx5FT6KXyxhNV01O6n5j4XIwDhSpZfPwZInxjak7LRtx43WBObSIwECbVlsVKtIanYIs61pRJnyPtOeIWEI84U/s1600/wildflour+croissant+doughnut.jpg" height="640" title="" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibjEJHXFIrzab2EO_dBI2UMgwxZn9viDusIttL_nhvZrJ1evDR845oGOEEIBuC_Coo6hKJYSWKPxDFbJj8c00Qh9x4O4c3ndstDDoKVD3IO-M0R2umJjvPSC07M68ZRFURTHpx63JXz2o/s1600/wildflour+cronut+flavors.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="wildflour cronut, wildflour croissant donut, wildflour podium, wildflour bgc, best cronut in Manila" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibjEJHXFIrzab2EO_dBI2UMgwxZn9viDusIttL_nhvZrJ1evDR845oGOEEIBuC_Coo6hKJYSWKPxDFbJj8c00Qh9x4O4c3ndstDDoKVD3IO-M0R2umJjvPSC07M68ZRFURTHpx63JXz2o/s1600/wildflour+cronut+flavors.jpg" height="640" title="" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZCyLSjYOgm6ed3KbMovL5Ai-BdSKuWPJ0YaFBfIhaE7MfJ2iFyArphEjBx_jC-KR4GWCrlOz8io5oBo3uesbVVTIRuaa1oJAE-GWLAmTmfthwJxLF2FSRWJe3MjnShA-BuDXWqviXzkA/s1600/wildflour+croughnut.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="wildflour cronut, wildflour croissant donut, wildflour podium, wildflour bgc, best cronut in Manila" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZCyLSjYOgm6ed3KbMovL5Ai-BdSKuWPJ0YaFBfIhaE7MfJ2iFyArphEjBx_jC-KR4GWCrlOz8io5oBo3uesbVVTIRuaa1oJAE-GWLAmTmfthwJxLF2FSRWJe3MjnShA-BuDXWqviXzkA/s1600/wildflour+croughnut.jpg" height="640" title="" width="640" /></a></div>
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You ready for the verdict? At 120php each, except for Dulce de Leche which costs 150php, I can say that these are quite overrated. I don't have a lot to compare it with but it's a fact that I'm not a fan of <i>too sweet</i> sweets and the kind of sweet they offer was a little over the top for my liking, at least for the Vanilla one because that's what I ordered. I got a taste of the other flavors and still found the sweetness a little distracting for me to appreciate the entirety of the pastry. I like <a href="http://whatseatingvenus.blogspot.com/2013/10/the-highlands-coffee-croughnut.html" target="_blank">Highlands' Coffee's version</a> better. But don't get me wrong, aside from the excessive sweetness and that I don't think we were served freshly-made cronuts, (we were there dinner time and there was only a tray left of all the flavors combined) I think Wildflour cronut is still a must-try. Unlike with <a href="http://whatseatingvenus.blogspot.com/2013/10/the-highlands-coffee-croughnut.html" target="_blank">Highlands'</a>, and if you notice in the photos, these are not simple donuts born with croissant texture. Each of them are layer upon layer of dough and sweet-creamy-tasty goodness.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQpiyfeTeQAftfTaJjd7zY9TEc1MYrsBumuBIBu4Lb1l-SFb14tDkrGX5nYxJUHKqaWa272ZGcSOFPPlrccxw1e3IBv1Jjb_3ie7zUHrFv3MtZI776Tci9fhZCDM7LorompJC2gBCex6k/s1600/wildflour+podium+croissant+donuts.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="wildflour cronut, wildflour croissant donut, wildflour podium, wildflour bgc, best cronut in Manila" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQpiyfeTeQAftfTaJjd7zY9TEc1MYrsBumuBIBu4Lb1l-SFb14tDkrGX5nYxJUHKqaWa272ZGcSOFPPlrccxw1e3IBv1Jjb_3ie7zUHrFv3MtZI776Tci9fhZCDM7LorompJC2gBCex6k/s1600/wildflour+podium+croissant+donuts.jpg" height="456" title="" width="640" /></a></div>
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From left to right, that's Kim, Grace, your Venus, Joy, and Marj. For the record, I was the only one dissatisfied with their flavor palate. The rest of the girls were pretty much happy with their orders. In fact, they finished their cronuts quick as a flash. We have always wanted to try the first version of cronut to ever be made in the Philippines and we're glad we made it on time. If you haven't yet, Wildflour has another branch in Bonifacio Global City.<br />
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Have you tried this one yet? Or other cronuts maybe that you want me to sample? I'd love to hear from you!
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<i><br /></i>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8418892536785178825.post-61045805934020379732014-01-22T14:20:00.000+08:002014-01-29T10:24:23.388+08:00When a haircut fails<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZYPpGv3DQzwQM1_a1jhuRUEfPc3r0DK3_E7VPr395F-ORCEnp7CVm3Iy9Dvunxt-wLE2HkAQai6dqojQAHrtkuTjrMxCyNXJPM-6KrHZGmZXgTjSdsdx46PyhPfjogDsrNVXYsopfoNU/s1600/haircut.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="haircut fail, haircut for wavy hair" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZYPpGv3DQzwQM1_a1jhuRUEfPc3r0DK3_E7VPr395F-ORCEnp7CVm3Iy9Dvunxt-wLE2HkAQai6dqojQAHrtkuTjrMxCyNXJPM-6KrHZGmZXgTjSdsdx46PyhPfjogDsrNVXYsopfoNU/s1600/haircut.jpg" height="480" title="" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b>Before</b>: December 24, 2013 (Hair in its normal uncombed state)<br />
<b>After</b>: January 21, 2014 (Hair was blown dry)</td></tr>
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After months of procrastination, I have finally braved to get myself a haircut. If you don't know me, getting a haircut from a salon is something I don't really do.<a href="http://whatseatingvenus.blogspot.com/2013/08/review-minoxidil-regroe-hair-regrowth.html" target="_blank"> I DIY almost everything for my hair</a> -- from trimming the ends and enhancing the layers to even dyeing the roots. In my 25 years of existence, I don't remember getting a haircut from a professional for more than 4 times (including this one). And last night, I was reminded why -- <span style="color: #20124d;">they don't listen to instructions</span>. Either that or they fail to follow even if they try. It's either the hair becomes too short for me like shown above, or barely touched <a href="http://whatseatingvenus.blogspot.com/2013/07/david-salon-at-50-off-still-overrated.html" target="_blank">like the last one I had</a>. </div>
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Last night was a battle. Upon seeing the innumerable half-a-ruler strands of hair lying on the salon floor, I had to make a conscious effort to fight back my tears. On the way home, I resolved to look for silver linings than to sulk my way to acceptance. Needless to say, the first one was more fruitful and even healthier for the soul. For one, there's less shampoo and conditioner to buy every payday. Second, and most importantly, I learned later that the husband likes the new look. That is enough reason for me to cheer up. In fact, the morning after, when the locks went back to its original wavy and unorganized self, I realized it wasn't too bad.</div>
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Last night took a turn for the better when hubby arrived with a favorite mocha cake in hand. I almost forgot we were also celebrating our 8th month of marriage. There are a lot of things to be very thankful for that crying over spilled milk suddenly seemed mundane if not ridiculous. I have an amazing husband, good health, a new job, and a happy family. Thank God for reminding me how good life is. Thank God for <a href="http://whatseatingvenus.blogspot.com/2013/01/not-review-silver-linings-playbook.html" target="_blank">silver linings</a>. </div>
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Unknownnoreply@blogger.com11tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8418892536785178825.post-33908403837208079142014-01-14T11:30:00.000+08:002014-01-14T11:31:42.771+08:00New year, new season<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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While Christmas was spent <a href="http://whatseatingvenus.blogspot.com/2014/01/christmas-2013.html" target="_blank">in Baguio with hubby's family</a>, the New Year's eve was spent with my folks in the house where I have been spending it ever since I can remember. We prepared a lot of things for <i>media noche</i> but I realized I wasn't able to photograph all. The spotlight though should be given to my first ever Authentic Pasta Carbonara. I should be able to share a recipe here next time. Bummer, I failed to capture my first attempt (which was successful, btw) of making leche flan, too!<br />
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Anyway, the early parts of the night were spent mostly in the kitchen. Then we eventually watched the street party outside. Finally I ended the year looking at the sky and watching the fireworks with the 3 most important people in my life. Those moments were one for the books, really. Recalling the night never fails to put a smile on my face even today. Thank you God for giving me a wonderful family and thank you for giving all of us a blessing of good health.<br />
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How did you welcome 2014? I hope you had a blast too!<br />
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Unknownnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8418892536785178825.post-8829792860332996202014-01-14T10:44:00.002+08:002014-01-14T10:47:56.225+08:00Christmas 2013<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxy_46qZwjP_-cAszVFSbjSVfh4WklaIRNm7l0eUKt94qYH33MxUmnKgvL_puVFKcrW0ZTOvCWo8nDWKr14a29Xm4yywZmz68mijK9HpVUA4wxVaq9i1PEeJ6HEOgrL0TbDLapOuiDbxs/s1600/Fotor010316212.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Mines View Park, Mines View dog, where to go in Baguio, cheap hotels in baguio" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxy_46qZwjP_-cAszVFSbjSVfh4WklaIRNm7l0eUKt94qYH33MxUmnKgvL_puVFKcrW0ZTOvCWo8nDWKr14a29Xm4yywZmz68mijK9HpVUA4wxVaq9i1PEeJ6HEOgrL0TbDLapOuiDbxs/s1600/Fotor010316212.jpg" height="480" title="" width="640" /></a></div>
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I had to be on MIA the last month of last year to be able to have a full experience of my real life. I realized I have spent so much time dealing with my cyber life that it had easily become a hindrance for me to stay focused on things that really matter. Don't get me wrong, I'm still in love with blogging. It's just that it's been a while since I got away from this and the social media to really enjoy my surroundings and the people around me without any distractions.<br />
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For the holidays, I was away from work and the internet (well, almost) for 2 weeks. And I sure did have a blast! We spent Christmas in the City of Pines. Though this was my nth time to visit Baguio, it was still an entirely different experience because I was with Ralph this time. In fact, we were with his entire family.<br />
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You know, the usual. A lot of photo ops and touring around. I have to mention 2 disappointments though: First, the traffic was crazy. Second, it wasn't that cold. I think it was when we're back in Manila when the temperature in Baguio really dropped to around 12-15 degrees Celsius. It was more than 20 when we were there.<br />
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Aside from that we were a big group (29 heads), another unique thing about this particular visit was that I was able to finally try the 50s Diner. I've heard a lot of raves about this restaurant so during Christmas Eve, hubby and I went there with his sister, Cham and cousin, Marian.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBrqUmH7UEfNyWK87G-BQDFt0IfsWmkc_pvzhNTCarFEC4e9A0KeyteSIoy6hWTH-_YmXNPyC9wBjMslcc4L6eNAsIw-GGYmVRTljbayLbH8UwFA3EIoXoNOeV2sheHv2r2LfpcpkapDQ/s1600/Fotor0103164026.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="where to go in Baguio, 50s Diner Baguio, 50s diner menu, 50s diner milkshake" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBrqUmH7UEfNyWK87G-BQDFt0IfsWmkc_pvzhNTCarFEC4e9A0KeyteSIoy6hWTH-_YmXNPyC9wBjMslcc4L6eNAsIw-GGYmVRTljbayLbH8UwFA3EIoXoNOeV2sheHv2r2LfpcpkapDQ/s1600/Fotor0103164026.jpg" height="480" title="" width="640" /></a></div>
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The verdict? Nothing fancy. The serving was bigger than expected and the milk shake was OK. Quite affordable, actually. We didn't get to eat burgers and steaks though as we were reserving some space for the <i>noche buena</i>.<br />
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3D2N well spent! And I was finally able to see my goddaughter, Andy in person. And as usual, I went home not with a lot of Good Shepherd goodies but with 2 big bags of fresh vegetables for the folks.<br />
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So that's how I spent my first Christmas as a married woman. Cheers to a bigger family and "manier" foods! Again, I thank my happiness-sponsor, God. You're the best! Thank You for being the reason for this season.<br />
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How was your Christmas? I'd love to hear from you!<br />
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Unknownnoreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8418892536785178825.post-59089278272221989492014-01-14T10:09:00.000+08:002014-01-14T13:32:47.409+08:00Not so fast, 2014.<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
We're halfway done with January 2014. Wait...what? I haven't even shared with you yet how insane my break up with 2013 was! Oh well.. time flies, I guess?</div>
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I won't even launch this blog-year with a post on my New Year Resolutions, Personal Goals, etc. I'm gonna save you another <strike>annoying</strike> cliche on your feed. Instead, I'll be sharing with you an organizing system which I discovered during the long break. Watch the video and see if this could be of help to you, planner/organizer-geeks like myself. I'm already doing this and yuhh it's fun to finally have a system when you only have a notebook and a pen. (I have long since stopped buying a planner as I find the preset lines and dates and inserts unhelpful.)</div>
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For more info, you may visit their website ==> <a href="http://www.bulletjournal.com/" target="_blank">Bullet Journal</a><br />
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Have an amazing year ahead!
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Unknownnoreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8418892536785178825.post-91212064196305529092013-11-24T10:50:00.001+08:002013-11-24T11:45:59.585+08:00Pacquiao-Rios Live Stream<u>[LIVE STREAM # 2]</u> | <a href="http://c089c6f9.tinylinks.co/" target="_blank"><b><u>[LIVE STREAM # 3]</u></b></a> | <b><u><a href="http://3c788d17.tinylinks.co/" target="_blank">[LIVE STREAM # 4]</a></u></b>
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<b>Manny Pacquiao vs. Brandon Rios - Free Live Stream</b><br />
<iframe frameborder="0" height="380" scrolling="no" src="http://streampinoy.net/forum/tapungol.html" width="600"></iframe>
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<a href="http://d8fd297f.tinylinks.co/" target="_blank"><b><u>[FULL SCREEN VIDEO - CLICK HERE]</u></b></a> | <a href="http://d8fd297f.tinylinks.co/" target="_blank"><b><u>[LIVE STREAM IN HD]</u></b></a> <br /><span style="color: red; font-size: x-small;"><b>(DISCLAIMER: THERE IS NO COPYRIGHT INFRINGEMENT INTENDED. VIDEO EMBED ONLY)</b></span></center>
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Enjoy watching! Share if you must! #PacquiaoFTW</form>
<br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8418892536785178825.post-10131615043812028432013-11-20T14:33:00.000+08:002013-11-20T14:33:01.936+08:00Blogapalooza 2013<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">*Disclaimer: Photos grabbed from <a href="http://homebaseddiva.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">The Home-based Diva</a> (Thanks, Mimi!)</span></div>
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Last Saturday was so out of my ordinary and I loved it. Don't we just need a break from routines every so often? Instead of the usual pancakes-laundry-lunch-siesta weekend, the morning was spent administering the Ateneo Law School Admission Test in Ateneo Rockwell along with a friend from college who gave me the said opportunity (Thanks, Faith!). I'm talking about waking up 6:00 <span style="color: #783f04;">on a weekend morning</span>. I know, heroic, right? It was a pretty tight day as after finishing my duty there (around a little past 12nn), I left and headed home to catch the hubby who had to go to work in the afternoon. We commuted to Taguig together (he works in McKinley like mentioned <a href="http://whatseatingvenus.blogspot.com/2013/09/no-one-is-innocent-we-are-all.html" target="_blank">here</a>) and parted ways in Market Market as I went to my next appointment -- SM Aura.</div>
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Now now. This was when things got so interesting. It was my first blogging event to attend not to mention that that was the first time I set foot on the newest mall in town. Plus! I got to finally meet my online friends (from Girltalk - blogging threads) whom I have been in <strike>speaking</strike> writing terms with since last year <i>methinks</i>.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEguRxrmRscAvENCTA9LlFLmkIKVQdqEwy21WJVelVMMiJCCOylE8K-jU7aCsy5SsUdeLAQbbMXU4dnFLUhsiBlwrk_9ntSyjmPDZ8lK4Z9Da969x18ELye5SRNnTmPEIw5bzKnCsjkG5-w/s1600/blogapalooza+2013.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img alt="blogapalooza 2013, SMX convention, when in manila, SM Aura, Sally Mae, the budget fashion seeker, mental snapshots" border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEguRxrmRscAvENCTA9LlFLmkIKVQdqEwy21WJVelVMMiJCCOylE8K-jU7aCsy5SsUdeLAQbbMXU4dnFLUhsiBlwrk_9ntSyjmPDZ8lK4Z9Da969x18ELye5SRNnTmPEIw5bzKnCsjkG5-w/s640/blogapalooza+2013.JPG" title="" width="585" /></a></div>
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L-R: That's Sally (<a href="http://thebudgetfashionseeker.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">The Budget Fashion Seeker</a>), yours truly, Christine (<a href="http://jocrisworld.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Jocris World</a>), and Nathalie (<a href="http://blackshirt13.wordpress.com/" target="_blank">Mental Snapshots</a>). Behind the camera is Mimi (<a href="http://homebaseddiva.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">The Home-based Diva</a>).<br />
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If you haven't read from the other blogs yet, the venue (SMX Convention) was brimming with people -- sponsors, bloggers, and speakers, alike. It was a bit challenging to visit one booth after another. As seen below, <span style="color: #20124d;">Plato Wraps</span> and <span style="color: #20124d;">Gavino's</span> were some of the sponsors.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPyZOcYMWRDdU7h2p1-D2ehPrw44chdmv2x4lSc0BPGqknSR01N-dr-T-997A679Bw1YF0lw36KGG_zaKekTwtJBX-RU-Ag6J4eVQz5uxLFQr1hsxJnwPtDNiQBITKxx00S95Ga-Dac58/s1600/plato+wraps.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img alt="blogapalooza 2013, plato wraps, plato wraps review" border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPyZOcYMWRDdU7h2p1-D2ehPrw44chdmv2x4lSc0BPGqknSR01N-dr-T-997A679Bw1YF0lw36KGG_zaKekTwtJBX-RU-Ag6J4eVQz5uxLFQr1hsxJnwPtDNiQBITKxx00S95Ga-Dac58/s640/plato+wraps.JPG" title="" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixY2Thp5ECV-tGysdca71sE32CELtt5Q_Saqnx4Hs1WeMTa1HjS3InIh10VfhW6QBo2S10-Ky1sIcJgaYhy7u2HqykaTTesYNl3wR0fjXycQqvIlp2cyPltmn0VZ0Y8WOAqMO41flMg7I/s1600/blogapalooza+gavino.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img alt="blogapalooza 2013, gavino's donuts" border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixY2Thp5ECV-tGysdca71sE32CELtt5Q_Saqnx4Hs1WeMTa1HjS3InIh10VfhW6QBo2S10-Ky1sIcJgaYhy7u2HqykaTTesYNl3wR0fjXycQqvIlp2cyPltmn0VZ0Y8WOAqMO41flMg7I/s640/blogapalooza+gavino.JPG" title="" width="640" /></a></div>
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This is the booth of BYS -- an Australian cosmetics brand I'm not very familiar of. I got a bottle of nail polish from them which I'm so excited to try.<br />
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After making sure that we have left our names and contact information in all the booths, we went out of the convention and headed to the nearest coffee shop for a couple more hours of chit-chat. I must say that more than getting freebies from the generous sponsors of Blogapalooza, chatting with these ladies got the favorite-part-of-the-day award. Seriously. It was <span style="color: #20124d;">sooo good</span> finally meeting them in person and knowing them in a whole different level. Like I posted on FB that night, it was rather liberating. It's like travelling to a place you haven't been to before. Not sure if they felt the same but <span style="color: #073763;">with everything fast and slow that's been going on with my life right now, talking and just laughing with someone outside the normal bubble could just </span><span style="color: #073763;">be</span><span style="color: #073763;"> </span><span style="color: #073763;">the breath of fresh air I didn't know I needed.</span> I was just blessed with their stories.<br />
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Overall, it was an exhausting day. But I wouldn't have it any other way. Again, I bring back all the glory to God. For bringing me to places I didn't know I wanted to be, for giving me tasks I didn't know I wanted to do, and for never stopping in surrounding me with encouraging people.<br />
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How about you? How was your weekend? Were you in Blogapalooza too? Anything out of ordinary that you've done lately? I'd love to hear from you so hit the box below. :)</div>
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Unknownnoreply@blogger.com12tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8418892536785178825.post-2995022134431594102013-11-12T15:05:00.003+08:002013-11-14T08:55:30.003+08:00Sacrifice. It goes a long way.<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh67mncXOiksrETFP_vIB6mLy5ALAV4xrZdR5PRxva_sAqlu5lvoczf7WX7XuSfPoBUIXCtFeQeP-Cm9DumdJENXb9LmatZIX-rq4zr_tDg9g8lbufwvEN1ZpHzVcUZRti7HtkT8ai7IeI/s1600/yolanda.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="how to help Yolanda victims, list of yolanda survivors, haiyan survivors list, #reliefPH, #YolandaPH" border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh67mncXOiksrETFP_vIB6mLy5ALAV4xrZdR5PRxva_sAqlu5lvoczf7WX7XuSfPoBUIXCtFeQeP-Cm9DumdJENXb9LmatZIX-rq4zr_tDg9g8lbufwvEN1ZpHzVcUZRti7HtkT8ai7IeI/s640/yolanda.jpg" title="" width="640" /></a></div>
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I am not even going to intro this with a background of how Yolanda/Haiyan greatly devastated the Philippines. It's all in the news. The whole world is aware. So I'll head straight to tackling possible resolutions to this heart-breaking disaster.</div>
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It might be hard to believe this but some people are actually able to shrug this thing off like it's a stain on the shirt. While some are indifferent, some are the opposite of helpful -- people who choose to point finger, blame the government, blame the people affected and call them deserving of such physical, emotional, psychological, and who-knows-even-spiritual beatings, or worse, blame God.</div>
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I appeal to every Filipino reading this. US, UK, UAE, and many other countries have already extended their help. While this is good news for a lot of us, I hope we don't take it as an excuse to be complacent and think that no more help is needed. We are talking about people who have lost their loved ones. They have no more clothes to wear and opted to loot from the nearby malls and supermarkets for food and drinks just to survive the next day. They have no more jobs to go back to. They won't have any form of income for I don't know how long. I hope we all see the picture that these people will be completely relying on the government's help to start all over again. Analysts would say it will take us around 2 to 3 months before everything and everyone is back to their restored and functional selves. But do we really know this? Who can say for sure? This is where my point is leading.</div>
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We can't just let the government do everything. Obviously, even Samar and Leyte's local government couldn't function anymore. They were practically hit by the typhoon together with the rest of the town. They are part of the casualties, including some of the police, firemen, and other government agencies.</div>
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I have seen a lot of people refusing to help because they think what they have to offer is too negligible to give. If this is everyone's mentality, God forbid <span style="color: #20124d;">even the "survivors" won't survive</span>. I hope we find it in our heart to contribute something for this. It doesn't have to be cash. I need not say how even some families here in Manila struggle for daily sustenance. <span style="color: #b45f06;"><b>Time and labor</b> </span>are very expensive gift we normally take for granted. We can help by <span style="color: #0c343d;"><b>volunteering</b></span><span style="color: #b45f06;"> </span>to repack relief goods in our free time. I heard a lot of relief stations have tons of goods and not enough number of volunteers to pack them. We can help there.</div>
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I have nothing against posting what you eat in social media really, but just like mentioned <a href="http://www.allvoices.com/contributed-news/15926503-after-haiyan-10-things-filipinos-shouldnt-do-on-social-networks" target="_blank">here</a>, #selfies and #foodporns are not very appropriate nowadays. A simple restraint from doing these says a lot about <span style="color: #20124d;">thoughtfulness</span> and <span style="color: #20124d;">respect</span>. </div>
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<b><span style="color: #783f04;">SACRIFICE</span></b>. If you don't have a hundred to donate but you still get to order your daily dose of caffeine from Starbucks after the kind of weekend that has passed, I suggest you check your heart. If you have not the time nor even any amount to spare for the troubled, <b><span style="color: #783f04;">PRAY</span></b>. It requires nothing from your pocket but it's very powerful, not to mention it's good for your soul. </div>
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Let me leave you with this scripture from Mark 12.</div>
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<span style="color: #20124d;"><span class="text Mark-12-41" id="en-NIV-24715"><b>The Widow’s Offering</b></span></span></blockquote>
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<span style="color: #20124d;"><span class="text Mark-12-41"><span class="versenum" style="font-weight: bold; vertical-align: top;">41 </span>Jesus sat down opposite the place where the offerings were put<span class="crossreference" style="font-weight: bold; vertical-align: top;" value="(<a href="#cen-NIV-24715B" title="See cross-reference B">B</a>)"></span> and watched the crowd putting their money into the temple treasury. Many rich people threw in large amounts.</span> <span class="text Mark-12-42" id="en-NIV-24716"><span class="versenum" style="font-weight: bold; vertical-align: top;">42 </span>But a poor widow came and put in two very small copper coins, worth only a few cents.</span> </span></blockquote>
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<span style="color: #20124d;"><span class="text Mark-12-43" id="en-NIV-24717"><span class="versenum" style="font-weight: bold; vertical-align: top;">43 </span>Calling his disciples to him, Jesus said, <span class="woj">“Truly I tell you, this poor widow has put more into the treasury than all the others.</span></span> <span class="text Mark-12-44" id="en-NIV-24718"><span class="versenum" style="font-weight: bold; vertical-align: top;">44 </span>They all gave out of their wealth; but she, out of her poverty, put in everything—all she had to live on.”</span></span></blockquote>
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God bless you and your family. Please continue praying for our country.</div>
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Unknownnoreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8418892536785178825.post-88448230104989707042013-11-08T16:36:00.000+08:002013-11-08T16:36:06.476+08:00Blogapalooza 2013: Few spots left!While I still have a lot of pending drafted posts on queue, let them all give way for this one exciting event I so look forward to attending..<br />
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<a href="http://blogapalooza.wheninmanila.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/11/Blogapalooza-Manila-Business-to-Blogger-Networking-Event-Philippines-WhenInManila-9.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://blogapalooza.wheninmanila.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/11/Blogapalooza-Manila-Business-to-Blogger-Networking-Event-Philippines-WhenInManila-9.jpg" width="414" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">I got an email today confirming my spot for the said event and while I'm all giddy about this, part of me wonders why most of my blogger friends are not there. Hmm.. The only familiar blogs I saw registered were of Su<span style="background-color: white;">mi <a href="http://www.thepurpledoll.net/" target="_blank">(<span style="line-height: 24px;">TheP</span><span style="line-height: 24px;">urpleDoll.net</span>)</a> and Abi (</span><span style="line-height: 24px;"><span style="background-color: white;"><a href="http://thebelatedbloomer.blogspot.com/">thebelatedbloomer.blogspot.com</a></span></span><span style="background-color: white;">).</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="background-color: white;">I hope my other girls out there could join. Shout out to <a href="http://blackshirt13.wordpress.com/" target="_blank">Nathalie</a>, <a href="http://istilllovepink.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Claire</a>, <a href="http://www.pinkmagaline.com/" target="_blank">Mrs. Kolca</a>, and the rest of the girls! Do I see you there? No pressure though. (But really, PRESSURE!)</span></span><br />
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If you have not signed up yet, please do here:<span style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit;"> <a href="http://blogapalooza.wheninmanila.com/" style="color: #993333; line-height: 24px; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank">http://Blogapalooza.WhenInManila.com</a></span><br />
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Unknownnoreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8418892536785178825.post-38971504989662337582013-11-04T06:25:00.000+08:002013-11-09T09:12:12.031+08:00Bring it on, 25!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<i><span style="font-size: xx-small;">*Photos not mine, click image for source.</span></i></div>
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<a href="http://www.thepottershandacademy.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/10/thankful1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img alt="thankful quotes, birthday quotes" border="0" height="426" src="http://www.thepottershandacademy.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/10/thankful1.jpg" title="" width="640" /></a></div>
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Year 24 has been the most amazing, exciting, intense, and memorable year so far. It's when I was able to appropriately and legitimately use the adjectives blissful, content, restless, and berserk at the same time. A lot has transpired that up to date I still couldn't fathom how those things can take place and change a person in a snap. I mean getting engaged, changing of last name and civil status, changing of address.. overwhelming!</div>
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However, this particular year in my lifetime was not without its challenges (hence, restless and berserk). Nonetheless, I couldn't think of a better way to start a new year but by thanking Him who is and was responsible for everything and the reason I'm still here to face another chapter with a loaded heart and an awkward smirk.<br />
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Thank God that a year ago, the love of my life braved to ask <span style="color: #f9cb9c;">apparently </span>the most terrifying question in the world. Oh and I thank Him for giving me the <span style="color: #20124d;">wisdom as I made one of the most major decisions in my life</span>.<br />
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Thank God for giving us supportive families and friends who gave us <span style="color: #20124d;">love and assistance</span> for the whole nerve-racking process of the wedding preparation.<br />
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Thank God for making <span style="color: #20124d;">miracles happen</span> so we could pull the financial aspect of the wedding despite absence of real savings on hand.<br />
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Thank God for <span style="color: #20124d;">the grace of emotional and spiritual strength</span> amid that taxing situation which tested not only our partnership and relationship as engaged couple but also our characters as son and daughter of the Creator.<br />
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Thank God for the wonderful people who blessed our wedding with their <span style="color: #20124d;">talents and resources</span>. May the Lord God bless them even more.<br />
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Thank God for the gift of this <span style="color: #20124d;">wonderful marriage</span>. It's fantastic! I couldn't be more grateful for having such a responsible, loving, kind-hearted, and godly man for a husband.<br />
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Thank God for the <span style="color: #20124d;">provision of a <strike>house</strike> home</span>. I never dreamed that such a small apartment could give so much <span style="color: #20124d;">comfort, security, and rest</span>.<br />
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Thank God that our new found home is <span style="color: #20124d;">strategically located</span> so we can easily access the wet market, supermarket, national road/high way, church, and my parents' house.<br />
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Thank God for the<span style="color: #20124d;"> smooth transition</span> from leaving our families behind and moving to this love nest. Really, I felt His grace surrounded me all the way despite the few burst of tears during the first week away from the parents.<br />
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Thank God that we had and still have <span style="color: #20124d;">stable jobs</span> to support the movement and sustain this starting family.<br />
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Thank God that we are in <span style="color: #20124d;">good relationship with our family and loved ones</span>. Really, nothing beats the peace of mind and good night sleep you get when you know you're at peace with everyone. This very simple thing is easily taken for granted and rarely prayed for.<br />
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Thank the Lord for changing us from individuals who worry about their needs and wants to <span style="color: #20124d;">a couple who work together</span> to make sure that each other feel no less than loved and taken care of every single day.<br />
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Thank God that at 24, my worries had changed from what to wear on a date with a potential boyfriend OR where to hang-out on a Friday night OR how to download movies/TV series for a weekend marathon <b>TO</b> which detergent and fabric conditioner to buy OR how to squeeze-in visiting the folks on a hectic weekend OR where to get cheap but nice sofa covers and shoe rack.<br />
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Thank God for giving us a <span style="color: #20124d;">fellowship group that never fails to encourage</span> and lift us up through prayers in trying times. Really, they have given us more than friendship. They are one big evidence that our Savior lives.<br />
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Thank You Lord for the <span style="color: #20124d;"><b>gift of eternal life</b></span>. I don't deserve it and even tried to escape it a few years back yet you shoved it down my throat. That is something I'll forever appreciate You for, such a compassionate God.<br />
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Thank You for the good health, protection for me and my family, protection from any form of harm and protection from the evil one. Thank you Father for being faithful to your promise that You will always be with us. <i><span style="color: #20124d;">Your love is practically the air that I breathe.</span></i><br />
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Now that I'm 25, my prayer is that like in any other season in my life, may I be a <span style="color: #20124d;">better steward of His blessings and grace</span> and may I be <span style="color: #20124d;">able to glorify His name in every thing</span> that I do and in every new day that He'll give me. I have so many other things to thank the Lord for and obviously a blog entry like this won't suffice to describe how grateful I am so let me just leave you with this lyric-video of one of my favorite worship songs. It perfectly echoes the shout of my heart anyway.<br />
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God bless you beautiful person reading this.<br />
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Unknownnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8418892536785178825.post-86474871178996106982013-10-31T16:13:00.000+08:002013-11-09T09:13:02.171+08:00Goodbye, October!<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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I've got no words to describe October. It wasn't intense nor mediocre. So let's make the pictures (and a little of captions) do the talking.</div>
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<u><b><span style="color: #20124d;">Duchess's 24th birthday</span></b></u></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjk4JDvY3B7ZdnIvSdE_gDzEfVA71GW0XIPpk4FfDlp0RkXY9gMGq2LM7I-pJIjyTbgEz1ygLoUGVKDpz9gXuRqsv9-VnU5Er8f_QFiM25igGsAERPr6-_ZfsumdDfcqCNowWoP9UIWc4I/s1600/white+and+purple+theme.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="white and purple motif" border="0" height="368" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjk4JDvY3B7ZdnIvSdE_gDzEfVA71GW0XIPpk4FfDlp0RkXY9gMGq2LM7I-pJIjyTbgEz1ygLoUGVKDpz9gXuRqsv9-VnU5Er8f_QFiM25igGsAERPr6-_ZfsumdDfcqCNowWoP9UIWc4I/s640/white+and+purple+theme.jpg" title="" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a name='more'></a>October 6 was <a href="http://thoughtoverspill.wordpress.com/" target="_blank">Duchess</a>'s birthday and the <a href="http://whatseatingvenus.blogspot.com/2013/04/mini-summer-get-away-and-grill-sesh-at.html" target="_blank">Springbreakers </a>had a little get-together to celebrate it the night before. As shown below, we had more food than we could consume which means more take away for us. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTg1ox6zBdcQKb7BAKBRZugItCXCX7-4ZM57LVl287KW3ljH0E8cbfrE1MkApqh6Hcb6rKUAHy6lZdGmenxjbtkf8er0Dm9WG1Bio9VypVJTEZv1TPruePuprS9PHyQbXrrVvM9AvM8tk/s1600/red+cups+and+sweaty+bodies+everywhere.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img alt="birthday party idea, dairy queen kitkat ice cream cake, ice cream cake, dq ice cream cake, kitkat, birthday gift ideas" border="0" height="330" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTg1ox6zBdcQKb7BAKBRZugItCXCX7-4ZM57LVl287KW3ljH0E8cbfrE1MkApqh6Hcb6rKUAHy6lZdGmenxjbtkf8er0Dm9WG1Bio9VypVJTEZv1TPruePuprS9PHyQbXrrVvM9AvM8tk/s400/red+cups+and+sweaty+bodies+everywhere.jpg" title="" width="400" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEim42OwekYJGfZ_QLBbKOiMBtJTbqn9da8UMGS8fjmczP6XcGEtZHVYnvhn70J-adpIDfOpI9b-Xz73P8-f5RlrFOcbQ-cHFz5qVjsN5nmtBn1wgoWxb-ZIVVE9n4XBspJY5e3XWxacBzs/s1600/dairy+queen+ice+cream+cake.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="dairy queen kitkat ice cream cake, ice cream cake, dq ice cream cake, kitkat, birthday gift ideas" border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEim42OwekYJGfZ_QLBbKOiMBtJTbqn9da8UMGS8fjmczP6XcGEtZHVYnvhn70J-adpIDfOpI9b-Xz73P8-f5RlrFOcbQ-cHFz5qVjsN5nmtBn1wgoWxb-ZIVVE9n4XBspJY5e3XWxacBzs/s320/dairy+queen+ice+cream+cake.jpg" title="" width="197" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEguN30SmUQ7WKGGl6YIZxGyMxffgLpt26VHh4IKv4cmrsN7eN17QWEEyGQkInal87LciwzR3s6pDzFKTymMxsdBw83rrXC0bXFItOgtYN_uG08OTAgEMsFGPWQ-m9MOp0zwBxzPP9lQb-M/s1600/Instagram+duchessabo.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="birthday recipe" border="0" height="633" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEguN30SmUQ7WKGGl6YIZxGyMxffgLpt26VHh4IKv4cmrsN7eN17QWEEyGQkInal87LciwzR3s6pDzFKTymMxsdBw83rrXC0bXFItOgtYN_uG08OTAgEMsFGPWQ-m9MOp0zwBxzPP9lQb-M/s640/Instagram+duchessabo.jpg" title="" width="640" /></a></div>
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(TL to BR) Pesto Pasta, Leche Flan, Taco Salad, Fettuccine Carbonara, Grilled Porkchop, Breaded Chicken Fingers, Taco Shells, Cheesy Potatoes, Sausages, Muffins</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhN6fU3TmjdzLFyLQolMfEsGBSabuNsVEGfbkeevZTxibq7saHfXYVny9XHPBbTWfeEP7o4L9UJWkN1lkkbFRhu1uSAfFX5mf6hJ7AOzxssfszfLn2st9oyPlN09zHfHniihyqsrvOkzlo/s1600/duchess+birthday+salubong.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="dairy queen kitkat ice cream cake, ice cream cake, dq ice cream cake, kitkat, birthday gift ideas, red cups and sweaty bodies" border="0" height="500" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhN6fU3TmjdzLFyLQolMfEsGBSabuNsVEGfbkeevZTxibq7saHfXYVny9XHPBbTWfeEP7o4L9UJWkN1lkkbFRhu1uSAfFX5mf6hJ7AOzxssfszfLn2st9oyPlN09zHfHniihyqsrvOkzlo/s640/duchess+birthday+salubong.jpg" title="" width="640" /></a></div>
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<b><span style="color: #20124d;"><u>Cravings</u></span></b></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhyZ-kKISXo7o8jtFgkJdGeYQ3DoK5Sc-Mn7TTiUOMCbRRViHevdaXVJymMo6-x4wfvaB14elccxKAZH7WA5RonTebN2_k2JbOnIn5ESkqp4wARlorDfmwis_ztE9WrbFIho9Ppy0wqfs/s1600/fresh+lumpia.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="fresh lumpia recipe, lumpiang ubod recipe, goto king" border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhyZ-kKISXo7o8jtFgkJdGeYQ3DoK5Sc-Mn7TTiUOMCbRRViHevdaXVJymMo6-x4wfvaB14elccxKAZH7WA5RonTebN2_k2JbOnIn5ESkqp4wARlorDfmwis_ztE9WrbFIho9Ppy0wqfs/s640/fresh+lumpia.jpg" title="" width="640" /></a></div>
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Goto King's fresh lumpia was not the greatest but not the worst either.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsMDbh7FMpPQl8mN_jz6MoFkYYExjUmwNWzi6PRu0N2boTwC2Fn8u8DSsdvG9kf0lfhlmqHF8bw3o9bOiQjuhBGPO0W5cHHhcLfECrHr4iW1NszEOwOt8EIM23jRUYmfU0sCd3tnNSlFI/s1600/mango+float.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="crema de fruita recipe, tiramisu recipe, mango float recipe" border="0" height="406" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsMDbh7FMpPQl8mN_jz6MoFkYYExjUmwNWzi6PRu0N2boTwC2Fn8u8DSsdvG9kf0lfhlmqHF8bw3o9bOiQjuhBGPO0W5cHHhcLfECrHr4iW1NszEOwOt8EIM23jRUYmfU0sCd3tnNSlFI/s640/mango+float.jpg" title="" width="640" /></a></div>
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Hubby initially craved for Tiramisu but we ended up making Mango Float. Not bad either.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEeQT0tuNGpSzRhBjNvB9SNfeF-JiiW9AlXI-BGEIsLaz74O-9I8Tg-V0bpicQhTtqt6oEyLUZhEgbRFmF25I1Ldlb6oLYRT3m1PZd3dCXKEKZuFQZfRhQYamQvLjIboWRG5K4FpF13Lg/s1600/onion+ring+patties.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="new food recipes to try, ground pork in onion rings" border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEeQT0tuNGpSzRhBjNvB9SNfeF-JiiW9AlXI-BGEIsLaz74O-9I8Tg-V0bpicQhTtqt6oEyLUZhEgbRFmF25I1Ldlb6oLYRT3m1PZd3dCXKEKZuFQZfRhQYamQvLjIboWRG5K4FpF13Lg/s640/onion+ring+patties.jpg" title="" width="640" /></a></div>
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This is a recipe I copied from <a href="http://www.pinkmagaline.com/2013/10/ground-beef-omelette-in-onion-rings.html" target="_blank">Mrs Kolca</a>. Obviously, mine was not as neat but hubby could vouch for its goodness. To my defense, I didn't really follow the recipe. I based everything on the photo. It was one of those "instinct cooking" moments for me.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSN2eeacx5-1ApYrXG-71_L_CsHc7ms_cst8_jCCNU6i4gCgZ9IJt4sAqPlQEemHLqK2RaN8enphhGMex5kYF37nl_iglM0Mxu3paJyVToSnW53X9ykhmzSYefR1u4ztcJ20CboLo_gPE/s1600/puto+bungbong.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="puto bungbong recipe, bibingka recipe, how to make puto bungbong, christmas food" border="0" height="442" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSN2eeacx5-1ApYrXG-71_L_CsHc7ms_cst8_jCCNU6i4gCgZ9IJt4sAqPlQEemHLqK2RaN8enphhGMex5kYF37nl_iglM0Mxu3paJyVToSnW53X9ykhmzSYefR1u4ztcJ20CboLo_gPE/s640/puto+bungbong.jpg" title="" width="640" /></a></div>
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I craved for this like a crazy woman for days until hubby surprised me one evening. This Puto Bungbong was so heavenly I had to get another for myself the next day.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjixmXUZvkb-Jq6wh8GwAiM34KEjJAphlT_odgHmdANpR4WqXcyJJPCE8rliCkodYk2OX9u4yzd4vvgZ0HPPGOmzfJXYUmb-u4vtjqAoMV-zuKnEBBuavszHOQZadjECur-qMerKq7d4go/s1600/taho.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="taho recipe, homemade taho" border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjixmXUZvkb-Jq6wh8GwAiM34KEjJAphlT_odgHmdANpR4WqXcyJJPCE8rliCkodYk2OX9u4yzd4vvgZ0HPPGOmzfJXYUmb-u4vtjqAoMV-zuKnEBBuavszHOQZadjECur-qMerKq7d4go/s640/taho.jpg" title="" width="640" /></a></div>
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As a working adult, gone are those days when I used to sit in front of the house holding a cup while waiting for my favorite <i>Kuya Taho</i> to arrive. And let's face it, those taho stalls in the mall are in no way comparable to the goodness of our childhood <i>suki</i>. I was too grateful when an officemate was kind enough to buy me a cup.</div>
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<b><u><span style="color: #20124d;">Surprise</span></u></b></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhH6JqLHJQ8z2aQ62Hghe2v9pO_RhhaVEtkHcqmanDfTdkzN0MnQg40rz7qb5SbLw4QDDLFwzUUbqFD0fUAb0qwbjB_BD8KELiNP1jekZis96IhGER7iupAK2aQyglU-9fGImXfMq6iGM4/s1600/sodexo+gift+certificate.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="sodexo gift card, sodexo " border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhH6JqLHJQ8z2aQ62Hghe2v9pO_RhhaVEtkHcqmanDfTdkzN0MnQg40rz7qb5SbLw4QDDLFwzUUbqFD0fUAb0qwbjB_BD8KELiNP1jekZis96IhGER7iupAK2aQyglU-9fGImXfMq6iGM4/s640/sodexo+gift+certificate.jpg" title="" width="640" /></a></div>
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I got this "special gift" from Sodexo the other day. Love them surprises!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiESaQ-pzhk_fFPAmPoLGbwV1P8vPIsRopGw696R_mwLlPWCegorfNNvg6GscDhXKrthRypBanHme3kH7EOA3G-VmB8NqaE_wXBuLJW9VkwxutO454_S3TN7LdYOJtxDTal_ixGFjX-d0M/s1600/sodexo+gift+card.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="christmas cards idea" border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiESaQ-pzhk_fFPAmPoLGbwV1P8vPIsRopGw696R_mwLlPWCegorfNNvg6GscDhXKrthRypBanHme3kH7EOA3G-VmB8NqaE_wXBuLJW9VkwxutO454_S3TN7LdYOJtxDTal_ixGFjX-d0M/s640/sodexo+gift+card.jpg" title="" width="640" /></a></div>
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OK. I TAKE IT BACK.<br />
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Remember I started this entry by saying that October was not intense? Who am I kidding? Thanks to the epic tandem of Walter White and Jesse Pinkman, we had nothing but heartfelt and consuming nights, hubby and I. But let's not get too carried away and save an entire post for this one, shall we?<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgiL6a09dh6AeVxrKIrT2JktKQ6mSdeZ2Bu7-_JQd6qGL_g3nol30zCkfd9COrzaFcFhyu_BcxKPEGbgVwmQyYjhUU1dPxnguvVIvueYDcfHHJWoZiqOtqOl_4Y7rnwylZji_SsvKMV4-g/s1600/%5Bpictures.4ever.eu%5D+breaking+bad+162869.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="breaking bad wallpaper, breaking bad meme" border="0" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgiL6a09dh6AeVxrKIrT2JktKQ6mSdeZ2Bu7-_JQd6qGL_g3nol30zCkfd9COrzaFcFhyu_BcxKPEGbgVwmQyYjhUU1dPxnguvVIvueYDcfHHJWoZiqOtqOl_4Y7rnwylZji_SsvKMV4-g/s640/%5Bpictures.4ever.eu%5D+breaking+bad+162869.jpg" title="" width="640" /></a></div>
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So there you go. That's about it for my October (on top of the first few posts I already did for the month).<br />
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Oh, hello there, <a href="http://whatseatingvenus.blogspot.com/2013/11/bring-it-on-25.html" target="_blank">birthday month</a>!<br />
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<i><br /></i>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com14tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8418892536785178825.post-42135983975293248822013-10-21T10:02:00.000+08:002013-10-24T12:17:38.603+08:00Green light to pregnancy<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJpgdXwafKBTr_e5qVtieDToZXolLvKAuPinJdm28paR_BTK3ng95iWK8kvO0ifQwJDSd1XKbmuuurbloWWn1pBWoPnibe0YIwn8ArQI2ihJFmGtoetdRRGe7CjqXCosQoQPXkGCgnkS8/s1600/motherhood+responsibility.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="expectant mom, reproductive health, family planning, waiting on God, baby picture, memes on motherhood, ecard for mothers, sleeping baby, motherhood memes" border="0" height="419" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJpgdXwafKBTr_e5qVtieDToZXolLvKAuPinJdm28paR_BTK3ng95iWK8kvO0ifQwJDSd1XKbmuuurbloWWn1pBWoPnibe0YIwn8ArQI2ihJFmGtoetdRRGe7CjqXCosQoQPXkGCgnkS8/s640/motherhood+responsibility.jpg" title="" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.momscleanairforce.org/ecards/mother-love/" target="_blank">source</a></td></tr>
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The past few weeks had been full of waiting and praying and anticipating, career-wise and reproductive health-wise. Today, I'll be sharing about the latter. I've gone through a lot of examinations as instructed by my OB and Cardiologist. It took me more than a month to finish everything and last Thursday, I finally got an answer.<br />
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The OB gave me the green light to start trying to get pregnant. Some of you might wonder why I even have to ask for an advice or permission from the experts as if getting pregnant is not ultimately the next thing to do after getting married. Well, folks, sorry to disappoint you but my case is different because I have a heart condition I had to get clearance for first, not to mention I also have Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome which calls for close monitoring with regard to just about any activity involving my ovaries. OK that could be exaggerated but you get the picture.<br />
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Anyway, to be honest, I have been praying for everything to turn out fine and normal. After the tests, I learned that I'm fine <i>but not normal</i>, of course. I still have PCOS and sure still is a very special patient because of the heart condition. So special that when I asked my OB if it's possible for me to deliver via Lamaze or Bradley someday, without batting an eyelash, she immediately said no. She and my cardiologist, both. I was nodding and agreeing with them while they tell me "let's not push your heart's limit, OK?" but deep inside, my heart was breaking already, figuratively that is.<br />
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Then again, it's too early to worry about these things as hubby and I have come to a decision to take our time. I mean, it's just what? Five months since we got married. We barely even feel like a married couple yet. We still enjoy each other's alone time so much and we hope to still get the most out of it in the meantime. And let's face it, we could be <i>more </i>financially ready for another mouth to feed, not to mention that hospital bills for delivery are no joke nowadays. I did my research and I was just overwhelmed. It's like financing a wedding all over again. (Now that kinda gives you an idea on how much we spent for our wedding.)<br />
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Don't get me wrong. This is me not losing faith or anything. After preparing for a wedding which was only five months in the making through the savings which could barely cover a wedding cake, I have already reached that point of accepting that no human effort can outdo God's generosity and provision. He provides for His children no matter how impossible the situation is. It's tried and tested. He provides. Period.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhW3oPSFdUcZ5TrzOR_1PQIYdCeixfKCknde8TcGYrU0Ro6lLmCgRNUfaBJvPz3mr1zNRYkohKis02WX0eCCaiTEA4l4mV4d_kuZTaHibRD6i_aBjMOCymtXxubW29ITBb0RxdISJZz4nI/s1600/motherhood+changes+your+life+forever.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="expectant mom, reproductive health, family planning, waiting on God, baby picture, memes on motherhood, ecard for mothers" border="0" height="448" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhW3oPSFdUcZ5TrzOR_1PQIYdCeixfKCknde8TcGYrU0Ro6lLmCgRNUfaBJvPz3mr1zNRYkohKis02WX0eCCaiTEA4l4mV4d_kuZTaHibRD6i_aBjMOCymtXxubW29ITBb0RxdISJZz4nI/s640/motherhood+changes+your+life+forever.jpg" title="" width="640" /></a></div>
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I guess this is us trying to execute wisdom. I mean, once there's more than the two of you in the family, it's never ever going to be the same. Being a mother is not something you can switch off when you get tired and you need a break. No, it's life changing. I should know from mother-friends. I realized that once I become a mother, I'll forever have to juggle between being a mother to my baby, a wife to my other baby, <b><i>while </i></b>working full time. I'm not saying I'm not ready for that. Who's ready anyway? I just believe that when God decides to give us a baby, ready or not, He'll give us the grace to be ready and to do all the responsibility that comes with it. For now, we still enjoy the boyfriend-girlfriend peg, just the two of us. Although it's a little hard especially when you see friends getting pregnant and giving birth here and there. It makes you really want to have one for yourself on the spot.<br />
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<a href="http://whatseatingvenus.blogspot.com/2013/03/engangement-session-episode-2-by.html" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img alt="expectant mom, reproductive health, family planning, waiting on God, baby picture, memes on motherhood, ecard for mothers, prenup pegs, pegs for photoshoot" border="0" height="422" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3rOJdz4kOXp3_gkdSn4unY2Kqyft3YEc8oyOfcCA48JO4t2k5qxs0jDaJ_hB3zHZkQLZC6QK9utg2XFoOOm2aHrRscdZIJYj_mpxUt-YFOJOFIdlC60M-pF1P_870dhsS5VAcXQLCoqA/s640/young+couple.jpg" title="" width="640" /></a></div>
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Then again, there's a time for everything. God will soon bring us to the season of parenthood but for now, we're just really grateful for the season of marriage that He has brought us to and we're enjoying every minute of it. I'm very blessed to know that the Lord's timing is perfect and He will someday give us the descendants He even promised Abraham thousands of years ago in Genesis 17. That someday could be next month or next 2 years, who knows? This is one of the perks of waiting on God. He's a creative giver of blessing and when He blesses you, you know it's perfect beyond comprehension. You just really have to give Him your 101% of trust.<br />
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<span style="color: #20124d; font-family: inherit;"><b>Romans 12:2</b> ...<span style="background-color: white;">Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is</span><span class="crossreference" style="background-color: white; font-weight: bold; vertical-align: top;" value="(<a href="#cen-NIV-28248F" title="See cross-reference F">F</a>)"></span><span style="background-color: white;">—his good, pleasing</span><span class="crossreference" style="background-color: white; font-weight: bold; vertical-align: top;" value="(<a href="#cen-NIV-28248G" title="See cross-reference G">G</a>)"></span><span style="background-color: white;"> and perfect will.</span></span></blockquote>
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<i><br /></i>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8418892536785178825.post-88339186922818373132013-10-07T11:59:00.001+08:002013-10-07T16:47:35.764+08:00Couple Shirt ALERT!!!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: x-small;">Disclaimer: Heavy on cheeseballs below.</span></div>
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I might have just found the most appropriate and relevant couple shirt ever! *giggles* When a good friend, Marj, showed me her business' latest design, I got so thrilled. Check it out below.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizwVU7mveFvnIf-c7bOlW-9iQ3koM9jYS2v4PJ3jaMs36OMqQ8bSWJUQ6qq4dlMDuHqi_Xqo8sKPUVi3bHPjSNkkwq5M4P2jebF3_YlFbfx-odLfci7UuA0MjWsr22UASgJoxwcmKZ-84/s1600/couple+shirt+customized.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="couple shirt design, shirt printing, couple shirt, customized shirts, personalized shirt, cool shirt designs, creative couple shirts" border="0" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizwVU7mveFvnIf-c7bOlW-9iQ3koM9jYS2v4PJ3jaMs36OMqQ8bSWJUQ6qq4dlMDuHqi_Xqo8sKPUVi3bHPjSNkkwq5M4P2jebF3_YlFbfx-odLfci7UuA0MjWsr22UASgJoxwcmKZ-84/s640/couple+shirt+customized.jpg" title="" width="640" /></a></div>
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<b>Prints n More</b> is a shirt-printing business that produces customized shirts. You can have them lay-out and print your personal choice of designs. Also, they offer a wide range of ready-made shirt designs in case you don't have your own. You may view some samples <a href="https://www.facebook.com/printsnmore08/media_set?set=a.109070015880471.11654.100003324199903&type=3" target="_blank">here</a>. You can choose from their <a href="https://www.facebook.com/printsnmore08/media_set?set=a.109057772548362.11642.100003324199903&type=3" target="_blank">individual creative designs</a> or from their <a href="https://www.facebook.com/printsnmore08/media_set?set=a.110588319061974.13493.100003324199903&type=3" target="_blank">ready-made couple shirts</a>.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkMTCkVTSf8tCswmnMaY-QWJ3WIfVpZnE1yRufBs_hyphenhyphenArVSqzyqdifgJAdonrtjQwazx27f9sCpmePB0M6IBR58chzuAM0L3EoDQk9xSQCnEjEY5kcvDeeWeNXPoH10naHJiTibI-x_-o/s1600/couple+shirt+design.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="couple shirt design, shirt printing, couple shirt, customized shirts, personalized shirt, cool shirt designs, creative couple shirts" border="0" height="387" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkMTCkVTSf8tCswmnMaY-QWJ3WIfVpZnE1yRufBs_hyphenhyphenArVSqzyqdifgJAdonrtjQwazx27f9sCpmePB0M6IBR58chzuAM0L3EoDQk9xSQCnEjEY5kcvDeeWeNXPoH10naHJiTibI-x_-o/s640/couple+shirt+design.jpg" title="" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQlEs85qg_6nPoqNI6uTSG2tLYuJbSUV2pWevERJykVxNAprXp8BN379EmNEe-0H5ErtqIX5_76DzWO2_3aoyzLSWihyphenhyphen-puXLXxore_d2BwQqRyq3jhJ6SRGQ_ItjBVpVcnLg7cBHbTqM/s1600/couple+shirt+designs.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="couple shirt design, shirt printing, couple shirt, customized shirts, personalized shirt, cool shirt designs, creative couple shirts" border="0" height="358" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQlEs85qg_6nPoqNI6uTSG2tLYuJbSUV2pWevERJykVxNAprXp8BN379EmNEe-0H5ErtqIX5_76DzWO2_3aoyzLSWihyphenhyphen-puXLXxore_d2BwQqRyq3jhJ6SRGQ_ItjBVpVcnLg7cBHbTqM/s640/couple+shirt+designs.jpg" title="" width="640" /></a></div>
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Obviously, the hubby willing obliged to model with me. I love it when he's game and supportive like that. Plus plus ten thousand pogi points! Haha</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIM3UvVu0qUZzl-v4ZEPYfjdFbaETtHsYSZ74efwWvmkmNyxDrcfKJn9SBHfKdHkEYwocOQxLW6OteDQyTkBhgy4jMZDXoWPwxEobS1SEsqOHkDpJauck7qYXJotFMmzsg1CfqxIjF5hU/s1600/couple+shirt+personalized.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="couple shirt design, shirt printing, couple shirt, customized shirts, personalized shirt, cool shirt designs, creative couple shirts" border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIM3UvVu0qUZzl-v4ZEPYfjdFbaETtHsYSZ74efwWvmkmNyxDrcfKJn9SBHfKdHkEYwocOQxLW6OteDQyTkBhgy4jMZDXoWPwxEobS1SEsqOHkDpJauck7qYXJotFMmzsg1CfqxIjF5hU/s640/couple+shirt+personalized.jpg" title="" width="404" /></a></div>
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Visit their <a href="https://www.facebook.com/printsnmore08" target="_blank">Facebook page</a> for more of their cutie patootie shirts! For faster order transactions you may call or text <b>Marj </b>at the following numbers: <b>0917-8462987</b>, <b>0923-5300048</b>, and <b>(02) 966-2229</b>.<br />
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Happy shopping!
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<i>Like this post? Share it!</i>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8418892536785178825.post-91629301975980647382013-10-02T12:30:00.001+08:002013-10-03T10:14:27.642+08:00The Highlands Coffee Croughnut Experience<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAt_7wCRYlNVg_JRQs9nv2ZQpZxDXYfK5hdIkKakK2Hg2Ilz_OhJ5-BZ597HQDqpXhlwa9jk1cyrMQu0AaYKPkQcLLlerbKNomDb35o3p8adkJHakuZTLMOGWYp0HZnMCG5EzgVi5Y30E/s1600/apple+croughnut+highlands+coffee.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="croughnut apple, highlands coffee, coffee shop in ortigas center, coffee shop in Emerald, how much cronut, how much croughnut" border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAt_7wCRYlNVg_JRQs9nv2ZQpZxDXYfK5hdIkKakK2Hg2Ilz_OhJ5-BZ597HQDqpXhlwa9jk1cyrMQu0AaYKPkQcLLlerbKNomDb35o3p8adkJHakuZTLMOGWYp0HZnMCG5EzgVi5Y30E/s640/apple+croughnut+highlands+coffee.jpg" title="" width="640" /></a><span style="color: #4c1130;">Cronuts</span> or the very famous pastry <span style="color: #4c1130;">hybrid of croissant and doughnut</span> were first launched by Chef Dominique Ansel of Dominique Ansel Bakery in New York on May 10, 2013. It traveled Berlin to Singapore and infected the world like a virus until it became the most talked about dessert item in the history. Wildflour Cafe + Bakery in Podium was the first to have it here in Manila. If memory serves me right, it hit the Philippines third quarter of this year.</div>
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I can pretty much compare the cronut craze with that of J Co. I remember seeing insanely long queues in every J Co branch last year when the Singapore-original doughnut house was first launched in the Philippines. That alone made me grow an unfounded hate for the product. It's only early this year when I tasted my first J Co doughnut and I must say it's good -- though not good enough for me to wait for at least an hour to queue. Sorry, fans! Now now, going back to cronut -- or lemme use the spelling of those which I was able to sample already -- <b><i>croughnuts</i></b>.<br />
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I know it's kinda late but I have only tasted my first croughnut last Friday at Highlands Coffee in Emerald Ortigas. Had the board chosen to hold the meeting somewhere else, I wouldn't be blogging this now because my curiosity for this dessert had long since died down. I'm easily bored and forgetful like that. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPr_Jw9g86QrKpA_xKjRMVSH4vbqljL46eWMGS0yHdjVqgIlx6UrnXh4cMLw0WvUsjCRfH1JqJFUfE58IjdnLjnuFLT6DrrgdYrBW8NG_8jpSn7cJ57ng3K42t1L_cqYyZ1_MLQ29o5QI/s1600/cinnamon+croughnut+highlands+coffee.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="crougnut cinnamon sugar, highlands coffee, coffee shop in ortigas center, coffee shop in Emerald, how much cronut, how much croughnut" border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPr_Jw9g86QrKpA_xKjRMVSH4vbqljL46eWMGS0yHdjVqgIlx6UrnXh4cMLw0WvUsjCRfH1JqJFUfE58IjdnLjnuFLT6DrrgdYrBW8NG_8jpSn7cJ57ng3K42t1L_cqYyZ1_MLQ29o5QI/s640/cinnamon+croughnut+highlands+coffee.jpg" title="" width="610" /></a></div>
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<b>The verdict?</b> Can I just say that I can share more about their coffee than their croughnuts? Haha. Obviously I have nothing to compare these pastry hybrid with because I have not tried the other brands yet so you should make do with a brief description. Sorry, I'm such a bad reviewer.</div>
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So the above-most photo is the <span style="color: #20124d;"><b>Chrough-nut Apple</b></span>. It looks super sweet but to my surprise, it's not. There's a hint of sourness in the apple that makes it very interesting. This is my favorite flavor among the three.</div>
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The second photo is <span style="color: #20124d;"><b>Chrough-nut Cinnamon Sugar</b></span>. I love cinnamon in general and this one made me expect for a really cinnamon-y bite which to my disappointment, I didn't really get. Then I remembered I was not in Cinnabon and I was all good. Though it says sugar, it's not so sweet either -- a plus point for me.</div>
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The last flavor is <span style="color: #20124d;"><b>Crough-nut Strawberry</b></span>. OK I'm not a big fan of anything berry so this is automatically not the best for me. Just like the others though, it's not so sweet. What's interesting is that I expected it to be more sour than the apple and turned out the otherwise.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTV2jH3NhMnoZptp5-Wo4hCtqT6_VnUwwrIHEo1rvZLMqYlGT8sNgKk7N7B-ELMlCRg6DJgwqMpo3RADtEceeTdZO2ooAR6zXMNO_Cbyx1dcA_5Gs26PXZHX8HUQrtFczXD8Md9pXmYhw/s1600/strawberry+croughnut+highlands+coffee.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="croughnut strawberry, highlands coffee, coffee shop in ortigas center, coffee shop in Emerald, how much cronut, how much croughnut" border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTV2jH3NhMnoZptp5-Wo4hCtqT6_VnUwwrIHEo1rvZLMqYlGT8sNgKk7N7B-ELMlCRg6DJgwqMpo3RADtEceeTdZO2ooAR6zXMNO_Cbyx1dcA_5Gs26PXZHX8HUQrtFczXD8Md9pXmYhw/s640/strawberry+croughnut+highlands+coffee.jpg" title="" width="579" /></a></div>
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I don't know exactly what to look for when eating a croughnut. If I'll be honest, aside from the flavors, what I liked most about them is the texture of the dough. I loved that they're very crunchy and tasty without the kind of annoying sweetness most doughnuts offer. If not for the crazy price (though these are relatively cheap at only 99Php each), I sure would get this over doughnuts any day.<br />
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Below is a slice of Highland Coffee's <span style="color: #20124d;"><b>Hazelnut Praline Cake</b></span>. After finishing those croughnuts I believe I have a reason to say that just a mere look at another piece of dessert is already unappetizing. Good thing we were in a group and we practically shared almost everything we ordered. I grabbed a couple of bite from this slice and noooo. Not a fan of butter bar disguised as cake. Sorry again, fans! This made me literally cringe.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEVza4XBohIaOvEtSY1Hc_syWD00XtFm6WJbGPwW_Bvse3TGcygRfoipFDBh9qyuNH4QSaW3QxAHpC9Uq0hmtVRcHqG2S2nPN1sIbI908G1x5jksQUg8knsO4Ua5GNIgWD_p2NrzzideU/s1600/praline+highlands+coffee.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="hazelnut praline cake, highlands coffee, coffee shop in ortigas center, coffee shop in Emerald, how much cronut, how much croughnut" border="0" height="582" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEVza4XBohIaOvEtSY1Hc_syWD00XtFm6WJbGPwW_Bvse3TGcygRfoipFDBh9qyuNH4QSaW3QxAHpC9Uq0hmtVRcHqG2S2nPN1sIbI908G1x5jksQUg8knsO4Ua5GNIgWD_p2NrzzideU/s640/praline+highlands+coffee.jpg" title="" width="640" /></a></div>
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Anyway, so like I mentioned above, I also have a lot of things to say about their coffee. You know my <a href="http://whatseatingvenus.blogspot.com/2013/04/the-low-acid-coffee.html" target="_blank">love and hate relationship with caffeine</a> so I won't reiterate anymore but basically, I loved theirs! I sipped from a friend's <span style="color: #20124d;"><b>Iced White Mocha</b></span> and was amazed at how not sweet it was. Same goes with another officemate's <span style="color: #20124d; font-weight: bold;">Cookies and Cream Freeze. </span>Cookies & Cream is one of my favorite flavors when it comes to food and drink and it's almost always sweet so this really was a very welcome disappointment for me. I'd like to make a hasty generalization that all their food and drinks are not as sweet compared to most coffee shops and because of that alone, they're now one of my favorites.<br />
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How was your first croughnut experience? Where do you suggest I try one next?<br />
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<i>Like this post? Share it!</i>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com16tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8418892536785178825.post-12419571290516287132013-09-28T17:13:00.001+08:002013-11-22T13:24:35.001+08:00No One is Innocent, We are All Accountable<span style="font-size: xx-small;">DISCLAIMER: You woman, this is another unpopular opinion and you might totally disagree with me but this is my blog soooo.. you are welcome to leave if you think I'm talking crap. :) Then again if you think I'm talking crapola that means you're guilty and I hit your guilty bone bull's eye! So I guess this is win-win for me, really. /blabbering</span><br />
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If there's one thing I like most about my husband, it's that he's such a chatter like me. He tells me almost everything that comes to his mind. Hence, we almost don't run out of things to talk about. And this is the one reason each rare season of comfortable silence in the house is very much cherished by yours truly. I remember when we were still in the stage of getting to know each other in 2010, I would tell my other friends how I have finally found a guy who's <strike>as</strike> more <i>madaldal </i>than me; that I found my match.<br />
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Anyway, one of the things I often hear my husband <strike>whine</strike> talk about is his everyday struggle with the opposite sex who could be intentionally or inadvertently pushing him to stumble through their choice of clothing. You see, we talk about these things and I appreciate it that he shares with me even those issues which most husbands would easily neglect sharing to their wives. Let's get into details.<br />
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Hubby goes from our home in Pasig City to his work in McKinley Hill (Taguig or Makati City?) via public transportation from Monday to Friday. He rarely rides a cab (only when in a rush or it's raining really hard) so he normally takes the FX taxi and jeep to and fro work. You can imagine the number of male and female commuters who seat beside him and in front of him within the 30 or so minutes he is inside the vehicle. One of the common things he complains to me about are women who wear clothes which look more designed to show than to hide the body parts we are supposed to keep. That's when the trips become something he needs to endure and really pray hard for.<br />
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There's the girl wearing skimpy skirt riding a jeep. Thank God if she's wearing a round-neck shirt to pair it with but no, she's wearing a plunging v-neck top thanks for the "asset" that she <i>has </i>and <i>must </i>flaunt. One hand struggling to hold her bag while the other couldn't choose which "asset" to cover -- her chest or her buttocks. She wears these and call the men around her pervert for looking at her. I mean, seriously?<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMY5eGZmVBjk6rFHUVjQXLzt1GEPCLJbn5l9E67wi6wbT5aux0PE-JdFbVRQMKnRs11T1hmEaQ2SfcqbNaXKbmRkdikUlWC2CCQCqMdCWtLDaJQC1bVYKOXy-dGcP2LskF3ZHmexAr2EM/s1600/proper+dressing.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="what women should wear to get respect, respectful clothes, ryan gosling abs, women stumble men, no one is innocent, meme for women, ecard for women's clothes, immodest dressing" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMY5eGZmVBjk6rFHUVjQXLzt1GEPCLJbn5l9E67wi6wbT5aux0PE-JdFbVRQMKnRs11T1hmEaQ2SfcqbNaXKbmRkdikUlWC2CCQCqMdCWtLDaJQC1bVYKOXy-dGcP2LskF3ZHmexAr2EM/s400/proper+dressing.jpg" height="280" title="" width="400" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhoTHqp84FtvuSBlhqHNYB4G1iGySomOJoL4TezrnWLESvrQe7Y5oKpuAx6hWINpseJGv_igZU2wo4DzwL4eR28DDO0n-Up9SKfHMlgaRJocsvPXV1icaYtwlUXHVea8eb6TOaHO1YlAGw/s1600/ecarde.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="what women should wear to get respect, respectful clothes, ryan gosling abs, women stumble men, no one is innocent, meme for women, ecard for women's clothes, immodest dressing" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhoTHqp84FtvuSBlhqHNYB4G1iGySomOJoL4TezrnWLESvrQe7Y5oKpuAx6hWINpseJGv_igZU2wo4DzwL4eR28DDO0n-Up9SKfHMlgaRJocsvPXV1icaYtwlUXHVea8eb6TOaHO1YlAGw/s400/ecarde.jpg" height="280" title="" width="400" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7idipO0P3NAfbTnIWjsZC3gE_yM1zDVPce7RuTX6xeBNzQNFs2X0w6yKwkDoBycGOkznYyFfsFazDpjDt_LuCZDObxUH6mdx2KnmcATkxzJasr4CE9YEW21faOS0dbX4gPfzGvgG7Ztw/s1600/1343531442671_5748334.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="what women should wear to get respect, respectful clothes, ryan gosling abs, women stumble men, no one is innocent, meme for women, ecard for women's clothes" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7idipO0P3NAfbTnIWjsZC3gE_yM1zDVPce7RuTX6xeBNzQNFs2X0w6yKwkDoBycGOkznYyFfsFazDpjDt_LuCZDObxUH6mdx2KnmcATkxzJasr4CE9YEW21faOS0dbX4gPfzGvgG7Ztw/s400/1343531442671_5748334.png" height="280" title="" width="400" /></a></div>
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To set the record straight, I myself love to wear comfortable clothes. Yes, I call them comfortable because my intention for wearing them is for me to feel light and easy all day. I have nothing to flaunt, anyway. I love wearing tank tops and daisy dukes. I have more sleeveless tops than otherwise and I prefer wearing shorts over pants if the occasion permits. When you look at it, my conscience should be clear right? I have not a single intention to make men look at my legs or any part of my body, really. That's not the kind of attention I'd want to get. Plus, the only man I wish to attract is my husband. That's what matters, right? However, this is such a problematic and selfish mindset. Will my conscience still be clear when I realize that while I suit myself in comfort, men could still actually sin because of me? Is it not my fault that my way of dressing up could be sexually provocative and adultery-inducing to some of them? Let's refer to the scripture.<br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><b>Matthew 5:28 </b>But I tell you that anyone who looks at a woman lustfully has already committed adultery with her in his heart.</span></blockquote>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #5c1101; font-size: small;"><b>Matthew 18:7 </b></span><span class="text Matt-18-7" id="en-NIV-23735" style="background-color: white; color: #5c1101;">Woe to the world because of the things that cause people to stumble! Such things must come, but woe to the person through whom they come!</span></span></blockquote>
Clearly, no one is innocent. We are all accountable. And now you have this in your head: "<span style="color: #20124d;">Here I am on my way to the mall in a summer afternoon with a single intention of getting my errands done for the day AND I CAUSE A MAN TO SIN JUST BECAUSE I'M WEARING MY FAVORITE COMFORTABLE 5-INCH-<i>LONG</i> SHORTS?" </span>As much as I'd love to say "No, it's fine and you look gorgeous you silly", the bible says the otherwise and I'd be sinning if I go against it so <span style="color: #20124d;">Yes, dear. You can cause someone to sin just like that which causes you to also commit sin in the process.</span><br />
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OK calm down, ladies. To be fair, this is not to justify the men or give them a clean slate each time it's a woman's fault she dresses provocatively. Yes, they are sinful just like we all are. Remember, no one is blameless (<b style="background-color: white; color: #5c1101; font-family: inherit;">Romans 3:23 </b><span style="background-color: white; color: #5c1101; font-family: inherit;">for all have sinned</span><span class="crossreference" style="background-color: white; color: #5c1101; font-family: inherit; font-weight: bold; vertical-align: top;" value="(<a href="#cen-NIV-28015A" title="See cross-reference A">A</a>)"></span><span style="background-color: white; color: #5c1101; font-family: inherit;"> </span><span style="background-color: white; color: #5c1101; font-family: inherit;">and fall short of the glory of God).</span><span style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit;"> I'm just trying to share what I grew up not knowing but I now understand -- men's nature. </span>I grew up thinking that something's wrong with men. I consider them to be the worse type of human beings. I think, it's ridiculous that <b><i>most</i></b> men I know can't get their eyes off women's legs or chest or behind. They check out girls on the internet and fantasize. They get aroused just by mere looking at a woman's magazine cover. I mean that's an inanimate object right there; something that won't even respond! I'm not trying to sound naive or whatever but these are some questions that bugged my mind as a teenager.<br />
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When I got married and finally have someone to ask about it shamelessly, I learned a lot. Our discussions (Ralph and I) were so informative and my way of asking was so casual that I got a fair amount of amused chuckle from him several times. Does he find it cute that I want these things clarified straight from a guy? Maybe. So apparently, men are wired differently. In fact, so differently that while women can easily check out Ryan Gosling or Chris Hemsworth's abs and not imagine anything, (most) men would have to make an effort to actually stop themselves from staring or even giving a woman's figure a second look. We ladies can let those well-trimmed guns just pass before our eyes and still not have anything sexual register in our heads unless we try while for (most) men, their creative imagination with a girl's voluptuous body is almost automatic. Not that we are blind, OK? We appreciate beauty just like men do, only we're wired to appreciate it in a different way. No wonder there are bible verses that specifically warns men about looking lustfully at women not to mention that this topic has been very much emphasized in different church discussions. I'm glad Ralph has heard pretty much everything he needs to understand how to go about these struggles.<br />
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My message really is not to point fingers on who causes whom to stumble. It's not even to say that I'm perfect in this aspect because truth be told, I have yet to re-raid my closet for ungodly wardrobe. I'm still a work in progress. There are days when I still choose to wear convenience over precaution. It's a decision you have to make everyday and there are days when I let the grace of God enable me to do what is wise. My prayer is that this may serve as a reminder of how accountable we all are for each other. Ladies, let's try to help our boys while establishing respect for ourselves in the process.<br />
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My husband will face the same problem everyday and I sure know I have no capacity to control that. However, I believe in the power of prayer and just like mentioned in this <a href="http://whatseatingvenus.blogspot.com/2013/08/an-act-of-respect-for-marriage.html" target="_blank">very relevant post</a>, God can control all situation and His grace can surpass all types of temptation the world has to offer. I'm glad I married a man who chooses to pray when these situations strike. I did not marry a perfect man. In fact, he once belong to that part of population who sees women as sexual objects and easily stumbles in every way. If not for the grace of God, he would have bigger problems today (yes, bigger than his daily aversive female encounter) that will yield to eternal death and he won't even be aware. We both are works in progress and we pray for it everyday. I personally pray for him everyday.<br />
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To end this, please see below for the final messages I'd like to share.<br />
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God bless my beautiful ladies! Hope you're having a fantastic weekend. :)<br />
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EDITED TO ADD THIS VERY IMPORTANT VIDEO:<br />
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<i>Like this post? Share it!</i>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8418892536785178825.post-45525444843824807242013-09-20T10:04:00.001+08:002013-09-23T15:02:10.843+08:00Woman Of Worth: Manuela Basilio<span style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit;">Like mentioned in the <a href="http://whatseatingvenus.blogspot.com/2013/09/dear-backblogs.html" target="_blank">previous post</a>, I have been working on something special. Today I'm launching my first-ever blog segment . This is an awesome idea I have been pondering on for quite a while now and finally, we'll be seeing it unfold before our very eyes! </span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGWneixlr_hmJ3TDyIJZ9ZO4WKMs-sff4uFzPb0_uuEv8szyvuIN7yM12FmzzD18HyQ0zWiGT2POVsWaiuidb6OiBfcOKVqKi1aHYYLc0_vl1Lc39u9xV83pL0jJHE0Rwgxk3SroZAom8/s1600/wow+copy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="color: black;"><img border="0" height="232" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGWneixlr_hmJ3TDyIJZ9ZO4WKMs-sff4uFzPb0_uuEv8szyvuIN7yM12FmzzD18HyQ0zWiGT2POVsWaiuidb6OiBfcOKVqKi1aHYYLc0_vl1Lc39u9xV83pL0jJHE0Rwgxk3SroZAom8/s640/wow+copy.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="color: #4c1130;"><span style="font-size: large;">Woman of Worth</span> </span>(or WOW as I'll be putting more frequently here) will be a once in a while entry that will feature women and their stories that are worth sharing. Let's just say that this is my way of celebrating us, girls. Wouldn't you just love to hear other women's trials and breakthroughs and stories of success? Moreover, as the segment title suggests, this aims to focus more on our worth as women. I just thought that it's too relevant to talk about this with all the selling out and twerking continuously conquering our society like a plague. And no, I'm not even gonna say that nothing's wrong with those. *wink wink*</span></span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">So, without further </span>ado,<span style="font-family: inherit;"> we're </span>jump-starting<span style="font-family: inherit;"> this portion with no less than our very own Pinay supermodel.</span></span><br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRnZsSMKGmW6V4-HKGE4nejx-SHIYILdWfguiI5ZVWWBR10zsBhntvHZGQK-Iyvui3mG8SXjFCLN4c-fawThxHl5RJv2P0HC1Z3g5Y1lkKhR7TGleozjmn3668M5FE085SUWlZsvf6e8c/s1600/Manuela+Basilio.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Manuela Basilio, Pinay supermodel, models in the philippines, New York Fasion Week, MJ Suayan" border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRnZsSMKGmW6V4-HKGE4nejx-SHIYILdWfguiI5ZVWWBR10zsBhntvHZGQK-Iyvui3mG8SXjFCLN4c-fawThxHl5RJv2P0HC1Z3g5Y1lkKhR7TGleozjmn3668M5FE085SUWlZsvf6e8c/s640/Manuela+Basilio.jpg" title="" width="505" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Credits: MJ Suayan</td></tr>
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<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="color: #4c1130;">Manuela Basilio</span>, born Manuela Marie Basilio and "Em" to her friends, is a 5"10 tall Sorsogon-born Filipina model currently based in The Big Apple. She is a former </span>high-school<span style="font-family: inherit;"> school-mate, a couple of batches younger. </span></span><span style="background-color: white;">Though she was a member of the official school paper where I was an officer, I didn't get the chance to really know her personally until this interview. What fascinates me the most about this young lady is her candidness and modesty.</span><span style="background-color: white;"> </span><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">I can still vividly remember how back in the day when SPF and selfie weren't so famous yet, she already has all eyes on her -- in the corridor, canteen, and school grounds. And no, it's not because of her extraordinary beauty but because of her insane height. Let's face it, in high school, you don't exactly call an almost 6-footer and really skinny <i>morena </i>girl beautiful. Let's see how she braved and succeeded over our society's <strike>most often distorted</strike> standard of beauty. </span></span><span style="background-color: white;">Let's take a look at what transpired during the interview, shall we?</span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6I2p2T1_qe6CzhTcjHlVZ_Hk5E-nEH-Uu7CSeDqJlEGYVeWgh8-RWMV633oKw1XYO5FX1u7MZBUVU6Ny7qVlV9q5muT-NYQVYv-PIEy38PokpPX9x4l2woHvzPJQm5STPGtTbRQzJoE0/s1600/Manuela+Basilio+model.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Manuela Basilio, Pinay supermodel, models in the philippines, New York Fasion Week, BJ Pascual, Patrick Galang" border="0" height="416" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6I2p2T1_qe6CzhTcjHlVZ_Hk5E-nEH-Uu7CSeDqJlEGYVeWgh8-RWMV633oKw1XYO5FX1u7MZBUVU6Ny7qVlV9q5muT-NYQVYv-PIEy38PokpPX9x4l2woHvzPJQm5STPGtTbRQzJoE0/s640/Manuela+Basilio+model.jpg" title="" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Credits: Photo by BJ Pascual || Styled by Patrick Galang</td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #20124d;"><i><b>1. Can you tell me a little about how your modelling career started?</b></i></span></span></blockquote>
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<span style="color: #20124d;"><span style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit;">It all started when Mash, one of the department head in my previous work (call center), approached me and asked me if I'd like to join a fashion show for a cause that he was organizing and I did. John Ablaza, the designer, liked me. Afterwards, Mash introduced me to Yeoh who was a model agent and that's when I started modeling on the side. As I was starting, it was the season when Danica Magpantay won the Ford Supermodel of the World, and I said </span><i style="font-family: inherit;">gusto ko rin i-try yun </i><span style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit;">(I'd like to try that, too). So I joined the local competition for Ford and won as a runner up. Then</span><i style="font-family: inherit;"> kinuha ako ng</i><span style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit;"> (I was recruited by) Cal Carrie's International. Everything happened in a span of 6 months. After the Ford supermodel competition, </span><i style="font-family: inherit;">dun talaga ako nag-start </i><span style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit;">(that's when I actually started) as a professional model.</span></span></blockquote>
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #20124d; font-family: inherit;"><b><i>2. What would you consider as your biggest break in this industry so far?</i></b></span></blockquote>
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #20124d; font-family: inherit;">Hmm. Biggest break? I consider Ford SMOW as my biggest break yet. Yes I did a lot of big shows locally but my exposure in Ford opened up to so many opportunities. And <i>may mga jobs na rin akong nakukuha dito sa New York pero di pa dumarating yung talagang</i> (I've also been receiving jobs here in New York but I have yet to get that one big) "break" that will launch my career here. Coming soon <i>yan</i>! <i>Abangan!</i> (Watch out for it!) Ha ha. </span></blockquote>
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #20124d; font-family: inherit;"><b><i>3. How do you keep your feet on the ground with all the prestige and glam and fame?</i></b></span></blockquote>
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #20124d;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Cause I have no reason </span><i style="font-family: inherit;">para magmalaki</i><span style="font-family: inherit;"> (to boast), that's one. The things that I have now didn't come from me. My beauty and skills are gifts from Him. Also, the people I love -- my family and my closest friends --they consistently remind me of who I was and who I am now. Yes, I embrace the prestige; it's very inspiring and motivating but I don't feel famous in what I do. T</span>hat's<span style="font-family: inherit;"> one thing that I love with modeling-- its different from showbiz.</span></span></blockquote>
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #20124d; font-family: inherit;"><b><i>4. If you didn't end up to be a supermodel, what will be your occupation?</i></b></span></blockquote>
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #20124d; font-family: inherit;">Ha! I might be a nurse. That's what I took in college, or I might be a chemical engineer!</span></blockquote>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9izZttDVItEQ6WGd4Zok42b9FP3cj-q6tRyDWkikFbPJ4EnbiDc_Y_d5a-sCjA91yTEvAI6Wo_HtcPrQJ33vHA_aZ4QAmujOSAVP15QjuqE88-Wg7oOgaR9jdlYpyuNug_UNjZyicZIY/s1600/Manuela+Basilio+VFiles.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Manuela Basilio, Pinay supermodel, models in the philippines, New York Fasion Week, vfiles models" border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9izZttDVItEQ6WGd4Zok42b9FP3cj-q6tRyDWkikFbPJ4EnbiDc_Y_d5a-sCjA91yTEvAI6Wo_HtcPrQJ33vHA_aZ4QAmujOSAVP15QjuqE88-Wg7oOgaR9jdlYpyuNug_UNjZyicZIY/s640/Manuela+Basilio+VFiles.JPG" title="" width="425" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">VFiles Show - New York Fashion Week || Credits: <a href="http://www.style.com/">http://www.style.com/</a></td></tr>
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #20124d; font-family: inherit;"><b><i>5. Name 3 beauty must-haves.</i></b></span></blockquote>
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<span style="color: #20124d;"><span style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit;">Bb cream. Red lipstick. Mascara.</span><span style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br style="background-color: white;" /></span><span style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit;"><b><i>6. How does your regular non-busy day look like?</i></b></span></span></blockquote>
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #20124d; font-family: inherit;">It will most probably be a day in the park reading books, walking, biking or meditating. Or sometimes a movie day either at home or at the cinema. Or just hanging out with friends.</span></blockquote>
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #20124d; font-family: inherit;"><b><i>7. Mention one thing most people don't know about you?</i></b></span></blockquote>
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #20124d; font-family: inherit;">I cant swallow a pill. Don't laugh!</span></blockquote>
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #20124d; font-family: inherit;"><b><i>8. What's the most important lesson you have learned with all the people you've worked with and all the places you've been to as a model?</i></b></span></blockquote>
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #20124d; font-family: inherit;">The one that brought me to where I am -- FAITH. Believe in God, believe in yourself, believe in dreams. Cheesy! Lol</span></blockquote>
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She's definitely a WOW, right? Such a wonderful character. Manuela might only be starting now but with her contagious optimism, wits, and big heart, it's no wonder if her career actually sky-rocket in the US real soon. Move over, Gisele Bundchen! Haha yup, I just said that. Fearless, right? That's <u>faith</u> talking. :)<br />
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<b>Follow her!</b></div>
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Twitter: @manuelove</div>
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Instagram: @manuelove_</div>
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Blog: <a href="http://simplymanuela.tumblr.com/">http://simplymanuela.tumblr.com/</a></div>
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<i>Like this post? Share it!</i>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com11tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8418892536785178825.post-40498192832346503522013-09-19T18:37:00.002+08:002013-09-19T18:46:14.593+08:00Dear Backblogs, What?! I didn't have an entry for more than a week?! The last time I did that was during my wedding-honeymoon hiatus. This is unforgivable. Lol<br />
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OK to be honest, I've been working on something special. It'll be my very first blog segment and that's the reason the rest of my other updates had to take the backseat.. but! Not anymore. Because today, I'm giving my readers a quick run down of the things that had eaten me while I'm gone.<br />
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Well, I was on leave from work for a couple of days last week to visit my lovable Gynecologist and Cardiologist. As shown below, I had to undergo my annual 2D Echo & Doppler and TVS. Results shall be interpreted to me this weekend. Hope everything turns out fine.<br />
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It was the husband's birthday last Friday so I took another leave and brought my MVP to Philsports Arena for a live PBA game. It was a really nice treat!</div>
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But before the exciting games, we roamed around our area of the Metro and ended up raiding 5 malls in a matter of 5 hours looking for the kicks the birthday boy has been itching to buy. No, he didn't get the exact Jordan pair we looked for but he got this.</div>
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And wore it same day. <i>Medyo </i>bad boy, huh? All in all, it was an exhausting day but super worth it! We had fun, not to mention I got see my favorite teams play live again. I have not done this since 2011 which is quite bad for my fangirling health. Tsk tsk.</div>
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The next photo is that of an office I went to last Tuesday for an agenda I refuse to share yet. If God's willing and this turns out to be a success, I'll blog about it. Or not. Haha!</div>
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So, how was your week? Would glad to hear from you below.<br />
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P.S. You should totally watch out for the segment I mentioned earlier. Or you can at least try to sound excited about it, too. Me needs some encouragement here, like, seriously. Haha<br />
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Unknownnoreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8418892536785178825.post-36391084258673277502013-09-04T16:46:00.001+08:002013-09-20T13:23:21.662+08:00Movie Review: Erik Matti's On The Job<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.philstar.com/movies/news/2013/05/22/945055/pinoys-increase-presence-cannes-film-festival" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" target="_blank"><img alt="On The Job movie review, On The Job, Cannes Film Festival, Gerald Anderson photo, Piolo Pascual abs" border="0" height="436" src="http://imageshack.us/a/img14/5167/okwq.jpg" title="" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">DISCLAIMER: Plain opinion and some facts ahead. No synopsis provided. You might want to research for that first, it's all over the internet.</span><br />
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I never saw the trailer or any movie review of it before hitting the silver screen last weekend with the hubby. If not for the significant attention it got from Cannes Film Festival, I wouldn't be so intrigued about the film. This is my first movie review and I'm so glad and honored that I'll be doing it for no less than <span style="color: #4c1130;">Erik Matti's On The Job</span>.<br />
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It's been quite a while since I last got so intensely affected by a movie. If I'll be honest, the last time I shed tears & applaud while in a standing ovation for a Filipino film (not that I have done so to any foreign films) was during my college days, in UP Film Institute, after the cinema lights were turned on and while the credits were being rolled for <span style="color: #20124d;">Ora Pro Nobis (Fight For Us), a political thriller film by Lino Brocka</span>. It's a breath of fresh air to experience another piece of <strike>almost</strike> the same quality, this time a crime thriller.</div>
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I'll try my best not to spill more than necessary beans here. I love watching local films. I might have seen almost every Star Cinema movies released out there, including all the John Lloyd-Bea, John Lloyd-Sarah, anything Anne Curtis, anything Jericho Rosales, et cetera. However, I'm not big when it comes to indie films. Not that I don't find them interesting nor high quality. Let's just say that I'm not used to seeing genitals and private parts on the big screen and I try to keep myself away from those. I've heard from friends that <b>most </b>indies have that; emphasis on <u>most</u>. In this regard, On The Job is not exactly an independent film. Borrowing Matti's term, it's <b>"maindie"</b> -- a mix of mainstream and indie. It's apparent just by the mere glance at the top-billed cast -- Gerald Anderson & Piolo Pascual. <a href="http://entertainment.inquirer.net/94321/banner-year-for-ph-indie-films-in-cannes" target="_blank">It was co-produced by Matti's Reality Entertainment and ABS-CBN's Star Cinema.</a></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.gmanetwork.com/news/story/324329/lifestyle/reviews/movie-review-on-the-job-is-a-two-fisted-tale-of-scum-and-villainy" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" target="_blank"><img alt="On The Job movie review, On The Job, Cannes Film Festival, Gerald Anderson photo, Piolo Pascual abs" border="0" height="640" src="http://images.gmanews.tv/v3/webpics/v3/2013/08/2013_08_30_20_02_59.jpg" title="" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
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Up to the moment I'm writing this entry, my emotions are still taking over my sanity so you have to bear with the kind of content I'll be able to produce. If I have not mentioned yet, this is my first movie review and already for something this big! Now let's discuss why I think this nifty movie is worth your every cent and time.</div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">1. </span><b><span style="font-size: large;">The movie kept me asking questions.</span> </b>This is the one thing that made me love the movie. It kept me interested. It made me feel like I'm such a fool not to understand immediately what's going on in each scene. It made the audience watch more closely, making sure no details will be missed. Truth be told, I still have some questions in mind even after the credits had rolled. I like movies that make me think.</div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">2. <b>It kept me on the edge of my seat.</b></span> Almost literally. This happens when you are too eager to know the answers to your questions. OK I won't baby you here just like the film didn't me. The scenes were <u>brutal and bloody</u>. The transition is rather <u>fast-paced</u>. And I have never heard so many curses in my life; I was plain bombarded and helpless. However, I was made to realize how real the story was. Every scene slaps you with no less than the reality, which leads me to the next point.</div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">3. <b>It opened my eyes.</b></span> I guess this movie is just too timely. With everything that's going on with our country right now -- the pork barrel issue, Janet Lim-Napoles's wealth, involvement of the big names from the Senate and Congress -- you just can't help but feel bitter each time reality is shoved down your throat. That's what this movie did. I entered the cinema house a naive young newly-wedded adult and I came out a woman forced to accept that behind those government official's lousy shiny desks are filthy transactions and bloody assassinations. <span style="color: #073763;">Realization: Things that are too much to bear are the things we need to accept the most. Otherwise, it will always be a life of free movie tickets and free miles by your credit card -- a life of lie.</span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.interaksyon.com/entertainment/on-the-job-a-hit-in-cannes-death-march-bores/" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" target="_blank"><img alt="On The Job movie review, On The Job, Cannes Film Festival, Gerald Anderson photo, Piolo Pascual abs" border="0" height="426" src="http://www.interaksyon.com/entertainment/assets/media/2013/05/on-the-job.jpg" title="" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
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<span style="font-size: large;">4. <b>Joel Torre was plain excellent.</b></span> To be fair, he's not the only one with the impressive performance. All of them really showed their talents. Everyone was in character you almost forget they are actors faced with different issues in real life. I just thought Joel Torre really stood out. He was so effective that until now I have to remind myself that he's Joel Torre and not "Tatang" (his character). Erik Matti made the right choice of sticking with him for this particular role. Gerald Anderson conveyed the character of "Daniel" so well. I felt his excitement to level-up as a hit man and he has effectively established the kind of emotional attachment he has with "Tatang". Piolo as "Francis" was another interesting portrayal. The battle in his conscience and his drive to do the right thing was so convincing I couldn't imagine a better actor to play it.<br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">5. <b>Awkward scenes were not awkward.</b></span> Don't get me wrong. This is a world-class movie but it's far from flawless. There were times when cursing didn't come out naturally. I mean, seriously Gerald Anderson and Joey Marquez? Who stutters when swearing? Isn't it the part of your sentence in which you're most articulate when emotional? Obviously, Gerald could have practiced it more. Or fine, let's give it to the guy. Tagalog is not his first tongue, anyway. Also, the bed scenes were not your usual. I must admit it was awkward when I didn't know who's chest was being focused (I'm talking about the "Daniel "and the "girlfriend" scene inside the motel). Then I was reminded that this wasn't a.. what do you call those again? Bold movie? So yeah, crime and corruption is the film's focus; not sexuality and sex.<br />
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<span style="color: #20124d;">On The Job</span> left me with mixed emotions. The greatness of this movie could be a good news on one side. Yes, Filipinos can do such a masterpiece and yes we can exhibit side by side with the more expensively produced foreign films. However, the other side is that this is a true story being flashed right before your eyes. While you're proud we can create such a work of art, on a deeper level we are being reminded of how polluted the institutions we supposedly trust are. And there, folks, is your double-edged sword.<br />
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Have you seen the movie yet? How did you find it?<br />
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Unknownnoreply@blogger.com14tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8418892536785178825.post-53992206819563294412013-08-28T13:32:00.001+08:002013-09-20T13:23:47.460+08:00Divergent in theaters on March 21, 2014(at least in the US) I hope it's the same in the Philippines, or earlier if possible?<br />
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<a href="https://www.facebook.com/DivergentMovie" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img alt="Divergent movie, divergent veronica roth, divergent in theater, divergent official trailer, divergent casts, 50 shades of grey casting" border="0" height="294" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjznbBDjURTDx4djPCLFTakM2s67svzg2ZiLGsjkoiurvzy9Q9ZgNDuoCHrajj2tFTBNqiRJIQIx0GnMa65ZZRBrDPOqt4bska3i_TgkKLvQ05MyGYyHj9iDv8buESLGtNSaxQOY5Vth9o/s640/302697_325174454275952_1039347726_n.jpg" title="" width="640" /></a></div>
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I have already read a lot of comments expressing disappointments on how the movie (scenes, casts, costumes, etc.) did not follow how they were described on the book and I'm not allowing these to ruin my excitement. I mean, come on people. This is the nth book-inspired movie that will be released in the history of book-inspired movie productions. Don't tell me you still don't get the drill. I say get over yourselves and accept already that there's no such thing as a book-consistent movie. Otherwise, prepare yourselves for a frustration-filled fangirl/fanboy-book-consistent-movie-obsessed kind of life ahead.<br />
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Let's watch the trailer, shall we?<br />
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<iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='500' height='360' src='https://www.youtube.com/embed/S6HHCxLZftQ?feature=player_embedded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div>
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OK March 2014 is so long a wait but I'd say October 2013 couldn't be farther. I'm more excited for the release of the trilogy's last installation -- <a href="http://whatseatingvenus.blogspot.com/2013/04/allegiant-3rd-installment-to-divergent.html" target="_blank">Allegiant</a>. On the flip-side, we're almost wrapping up August and the next thing we know, it's the -ber months already! Time really flies when having fun, yes?<br />
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Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8418892536785178825.post-83597112680798867882013-08-27T13:04:00.002+08:002013-09-20T13:07:11.734+08:00How to pull an all-nighter<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Last Friday, another set of friends spent a night in our humble home -- ze officemates. Unlike with the <a href="http://whatseatingvenus.blogspot.com/2013/08/how-to-rock-housewarming.html" target="_blank">Springbreaker's the weekend before</a>, this one's a total all-nighter. Now now, it's one thing to prep dinner and midnight snack for visitors and it sure is another plane altogether to prep food that will last until <strike>breakfast</strike> lunch the next day. </div>
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Here is sharing with you everything I cooked including the recipe of now slowly becoming my favorite pasta to cook -- Charlie Chan.</div>
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<a href="http://www.food.com/recipe/yellow-cabs-charlie-chan-chicken-pasta-313290" target="_blank"><b>Charlie Chan Pasta Recipe</b></a></div>
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1 whole boneless chicken breast</div>
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1/3 cup olive oil</div>
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1 piece onion</div>
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2 garlic cloves</div>
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1 1/4 tablespoons Char Siu Sauce (lee kum kee)</div>
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9 tablespoons oyster sauce (lee kum kee)</div>
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1/8 cup brown sugar</div>
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4 tablespoons water</div>
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1 kg cooked pasta</div>
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peanuts<br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">Saut</span><span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: inherit; line-height: 17px;">é onion and garlic in olive oil.</span><span style="font-family: inherit;"> </span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijJenSXrmghGGH92K1dyJoJnhyA_5WmZpdhxEDzxMvGQqdNRN2cb99JRJS5BYx6Zm1ZHWj57uEVZ5HTj-GXAMP0D9WB8Y8noMIiqzPlLpncn47V0tA1NKkM0poTlSxw7jE3j5ccJA-_NM/s1600/best+asian+pasta.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="566" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijJenSXrmghGGH92K1dyJoJnhyA_5WmZpdhxEDzxMvGQqdNRN2cb99JRJS5BYx6Zm1ZHWj57uEVZ5HTj-GXAMP0D9WB8Y8noMIiqzPlLpncn47V0tA1NKkM0poTlSxw7jE3j5ccJA-_NM/s640/best+asian+pasta.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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Mix char siu sauce, oyster sauce, and sugar in a bowl. For a more Charlie-Chan tasting finish, add sesame oil and chili-garlic sauce. These are the ones I failed to buy.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhs1opznlqcuf4u3oqzffWZJ6rp2GRsTcPF56NQzZfGbI0qo_RVm99rodPlxs4Gs3O5pTT6GRZsYUi_JR1WZLJKGb27WtPuxg7KPYBiRSjHdjcJTpRjW2KPvwVPvg5argm0nTmBFN_4RBM/s1600/how+to+cook+yellowcab+charlie+chan+pasta.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="charlie chan pasta recipe, how to cook charlie chan pasta" border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhs1opznlqcuf4u3oqzffWZJ6rp2GRsTcPF56NQzZfGbI0qo_RVm99rodPlxs4Gs3O5pTT6GRZsYUi_JR1WZLJKGb27WtPuxg7KPYBiRSjHdjcJTpRjW2KPvwVPvg5argm0nTmBFN_4RBM/s320/how+to+cook+yellowcab+charlie+chan+pasta.jpg" title="" width="254" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjl2PmNpkYG0xEB6llyttswQeoIzMcqWoqiXzLCJikt5uhF9sNi1HayooM_F4GxrF_8w_oezsCp4YiDPurDo9sRBJSCkPDeuiuAlPfyHqd7oqkNamJOU7efgqt7n5FTpBft8WA-KOaX3xQ/s1600/how+to+cook+yellowcab+charlie+chan.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="charlie chan pasta recipe, how to cook charlie chan pasta" border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjl2PmNpkYG0xEB6llyttswQeoIzMcqWoqiXzLCJikt5uhF9sNi1HayooM_F4GxrF_8w_oezsCp4YiDPurDo9sRBJSCkPDeuiuAlPfyHqd7oqkNamJOU7efgqt7n5FTpBft8WA-KOaX3xQ/s320/how+to+cook+yellowcab+charlie+chan.jpg" title="" width="273" /></a></div>
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Add liquid mixture to chicken and peanut. Simmer for a few minutes. Set aside.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMzpJ8cgrqopuSsTmTSH_4cjjN7mK38GS9tVr9q9sgXWf1eJXaoSeWcVWUuxGF6246A3y55Z0KNgr6nSb-4mnrvXpBTl3E63G6_bgfwlyMeCruTLCLbWQqXcQvHPG5prhe5uRFoRBLgfk/s1600/charlie+chan+pasta+recipe.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMzpJ8cgrqopuSsTmTSH_4cjjN7mK38GS9tVr9q9sgXWf1eJXaoSeWcVWUuxGF6246A3y55Z0KNgr6nSb-4mnrvXpBTl3E63G6_bgfwlyMeCruTLCLbWQqXcQvHPG5prhe5uRFoRBLgfk/s640/charlie+chan+pasta+recipe.jpg" width="512" /></a></div>
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Boil the pasta for 8 minutes and drain.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgaZ2UJpo8vehPPTULthIaH268UFUgzQ_tKlvS13Y3-6fa1f2-mr-MDE3H8oj7ukqOUduNq-lm9GXEtYDCM7Nsp8JVjgL1sPkY6LmU0usNE-JuHCOXIYdSt8ZbeSE4lDvGxq_pe_7UQeOg/s1600/charlie+chan+pasta.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img alt="charlie chan pasta recipe, how to cook charlie chan pasta" border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgaZ2UJpo8vehPPTULthIaH268UFUgzQ_tKlvS13Y3-6fa1f2-mr-MDE3H8oj7ukqOUduNq-lm9GXEtYDCM7Nsp8JVjgL1sPkY6LmU0usNE-JuHCOXIYdSt8ZbeSE4lDvGxq_pe_7UQeOg/s400/charlie+chan+pasta.jpg" title="" width="346" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjibVvSpcBP1BeSCftGDTmIriBF0mSaa9WlICphtUjh984jKhVfAX_MNdMEQkESuguLkQDBVscHbhYZJjf2T0GB6Nk54BXdxhvdh9iYOAMZ4UN_r_oEzWr3a4DqwU8ykI3O3_bffdeilUI/s1600/yellowcab+charlie+chan+pasta+recipe.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjibVvSpcBP1BeSCftGDTmIriBF0mSaa9WlICphtUjh984jKhVfAX_MNdMEQkESuguLkQDBVscHbhYZJjf2T0GB6Nk54BXdxhvdh9iYOAMZ4UN_r_oEzWr3a4DqwU8ykI3O3_bffdeilUI/s320/yellowcab+charlie+chan+pasta+recipe.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
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Add the sauce and serve. If you love it more hot and spicy, I suggest you add <span style="color: #4c1130;">chili powder</span> or <span style="color: #4c1130;">cayenne pepper</span>. I have these two in McCormick brand and one of the girls savored the pasta with a generous amount of chili powder.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEil4jsgJjUfZlEceWi6-V11XGWLkse5guwvZWc2A_Zq4aCQc-yDW7NH9XZ3qXyd_rb1ltnjLdKQPwkRZxWY5Uh6A26JhXI6OMK77zRYSn77ryi1QF5A6IpC7xb7D83jCbhKEzntJX-FT-I/s1600/charlie+chan.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="charlie chan pasta recipe, how to cook charlie chan pasta" border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEil4jsgJjUfZlEceWi6-V11XGWLkse5guwvZWc2A_Zq4aCQc-yDW7NH9XZ3qXyd_rb1ltnjLdKQPwkRZxWY5Uh6A26JhXI6OMK77zRYSn77ryi1QF5A6IpC7xb7D83jCbhKEzntJX-FT-I/s640/charlie+chan.jpg" title="" width="640" /></a></div>
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This was for dinner. On the side, I shallow-fried the ready-to-cook <span style="color: #20124d;">cheese sticks</span> we brought from the supermarket.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgY1ZMy5OnN0dCF9EoGjdTheb98EUqlLDu0DGzbFt_hOOfmJRMi-bK22gSQd9iW_jxsekbJkwgzcTUdoDC72AbBBSxlAHyNDvD_TnN27wHyeqrTpx9hUshBFg0iyXCxAszAQNaVIDNpqds/s1600/cheese+sticks.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="435" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgY1ZMy5OnN0dCF9EoGjdTheb98EUqlLDu0DGzbFt_hOOfmJRMi-bK22gSQd9iW_jxsekbJkwgzcTUdoDC72AbBBSxlAHyNDvD_TnN27wHyeqrTpx9hUshBFg0iyXCxAszAQNaVIDNpqds/s640/cheese+sticks.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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For breakfast, I woke up ahead of everyone to prep my version of <span style="color: #0c343d;">Tuna Melt</span> for the first time. Below is how it looks like raw.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixnrgsHRBAA2wBmG88WZOFOxDz8VOOlQ2xGQpBrAof2FhGhRuFKMo_9Ly5F9ALkdIaNvh9OkBZBs6XDrEtjjKy8dP2XPvZH9b9plyLzlPSZEAfdlF9apbQ_q0a-zc89N43txx1FvF3CGc/s1600/tuna+melt+raw.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="tuna melt recipe" border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixnrgsHRBAA2wBmG88WZOFOxDz8VOOlQ2xGQpBrAof2FhGhRuFKMo_9Ly5F9ALkdIaNvh9OkBZBs6XDrEtjjKy8dP2XPvZH9b9plyLzlPSZEAfdlF9apbQ_q0a-zc89N43txx1FvF3CGc/s640/tuna+melt+raw.jpg" title="" width="640" /></a></div>
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This is basically Gardenia bread with mayonnaise, tuna, and quick-melt cheese. For my very own slices, I add on a little of mustard. After around 5 minutes in the oven, below is the finished product. Mine on the right, with the distinct mustard droppings. Sorry if they don't look like mustard. Lol.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDFONixJ-O9gX0t8Ss65fzS-0rXCfj2eBn1qWplBepDmNFTzJ4uLLvpc9CHKo87n4LZ7zlt4BK5pz6CAoafhwgdkFX5lD3kPCgVyBtHEqenW5_MH47Ujn1cLfYyMPFmlh6tNbwiyVGlzE/s1600/tuna+melt.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="tuna melt recipe" border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDFONixJ-O9gX0t8Ss65fzS-0rXCfj2eBn1qWplBepDmNFTzJ4uLLvpc9CHKo87n4LZ7zlt4BK5pz6CAoafhwgdkFX5lD3kPCgVyBtHEqenW5_MH47Ujn1cLfYyMPFmlh6tNbwiyVGlzE/s640/tuna+melt.jpg" title="" width="640" /></a></div>
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For lunch, alongside my other shallow-fried pack of <span style="color: #20124d;">Kikiam </span>(unhealthy, I know), we also cooked <span style="color: #0c343d;">onion rings</span>. Apparently, these were not enough so I had to murder some of the <span style="color: #073763;"><i>itlog na maalat</i> and tomatoes</span> from the fridge. I have not taken my own photos so here's how it looks like.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLQk_-U-k35Ma69RyUwuFNo6OyUHRmZ6O7JY58Ry6igXgMKEaoXT-3Qz70quEJoO2Eg2vUy1pkg_4w3kQtprvpu5VzFPCKK9QODErIxZdd5ng_q-Ac2dG2Uo2Ft4ZjJIA9sN8C3Ylv/s1600/itlog-na-maalat.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" target="_blank"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLQk_-U-k35Ma69RyUwuFNo6OyUHRmZ6O7JY58Ry6igXgMKEaoXT-3Qz70quEJoO2Eg2vUy1pkg_4w3kQtprvpu5VzFPCKK9QODErIxZdd5ng_q-Ac2dG2Uo2Ft4ZjJIA9sN8C3Ylv/s640/itlog-na-maalat.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjv0iIpdRxD6bORc5jSX0dzlfpGbkSB8dozabTgFMoIY899WwbnExjpf5koGNmTjZFcualMFKr3QLxE4Q5etk1xLI5KY_FUkEoBCtYazNB6aSmYCkuRaV9GGGioumUpjCsI58E8fPA4m-4/s1600/onion+rings.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjv0iIpdRxD6bORc5jSX0dzlfpGbkSB8dozabTgFMoIY899WwbnExjpf5koGNmTjZFcualMFKr3QLxE4Q5etk1xLI5KY_FUkEoBCtYazNB6aSmYCkuRaV9GGGioumUpjCsI58E8fPA4m-4/s640/onion+rings.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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So there you go folks! Now to answer the title of this entry, it doesn't only take you food to make a successful sleepover. You have to have an activity to keep everyone going. As for my friends and I, we watched The Conjuring (my third, I know) and marathoned the first season of 2 Broke Girls til midnight. We didn't finish it then so they ended up staying until lunch time of Saturday.<br />
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<a href="http://noz-stradomus.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/05/2-Broke-Girls.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="512" src="http://noz-stradomus.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/05/2-Broke-Girls.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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It was just the beginning of a well-spent long weekend. How was yours?<br />
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Unknownnoreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8418892536785178825.post-84349527829398145902013-08-19T11:14:00.002+08:002013-09-20T13:07:22.244+08:00How to rock a housewarming<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
It was a yet another fantastic <a href="http://whatseatingvenus.blogspot.com/2013/04/mini-summer-get-away-and-grill-sesh-at.html" target="_blank">Springbreaker </a>kind of night last Friday. Ralph and I prepared some sort of "house-warming" and the guys willingly obliged. Here is sharing to you what I cooked.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpZHKZlWCuC-UIdVokj-hxYu4tDUn4r1WirZ3X5IqKQ88wviAtQ-e7k48DuMk-sRw0ko-XcP71gWeRYUciK-YFrGljCZZ06LWwmJmcx_q5XbLucGCE3kH0vOjmZGpjF4TMS1MMI79aFg8/s1600/broiled+chicken.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="what to do during housewarming, housewarming" border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpZHKZlWCuC-UIdVokj-hxYu4tDUn4r1WirZ3X5IqKQ88wviAtQ-e7k48DuMk-sRw0ko-XcP71gWeRYUciK-YFrGljCZZ06LWwmJmcx_q5XbLucGCE3kH0vOjmZGpjF4TMS1MMI79aFg8/s640/broiled+chicken.jpg" title="" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="color: #073763;">Broiled Chicken Inasal</span>. Does that name even make sense? OK I didn't cook this one. I asked for Ma's help to broil me this whole chicken and the guys loved it. It's marinated in Clara Ole Inasal flavored marinade and was stuffed with lemongrass. Beside is <span style="color: #20124d;">Lechon Liempo</span> brought by Owel & Claro. Thank you, gentlemen.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4gQAvsvy5CxRVaouGMqV016bQP82Vvy2PMA1XXv6_SrKDh-YITLNQaElhZ_WxtVwrk1LSe1JX35wqfDhUlogN_Al7qtTNqO05qUmlc5otaRgIsdadF5daL5sLAzO3nYXbQPuixI23CL0/s1600/charlie+chan+pasta.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="charlie chan pasta recipe, asian noodles recipe" border="0" height="470" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4gQAvsvy5CxRVaouGMqV016bQP82Vvy2PMA1XXv6_SrKDh-YITLNQaElhZ_WxtVwrk1LSe1JX35wqfDhUlogN_Al7qtTNqO05qUmlc5otaRgIsdadF5daL5sLAzO3nYXbQPuixI23CL0/s640/charlie+chan+pasta.jpg" title="" width="640" /></a></div>
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Now now. This one I'm very proud of. It was my first attempt to copy Yellowcab's <span style="color: #073763;">Charlie Chan pasta</span> and it was a success. Initially, it needed a bit of tweaking as it wasn't as salty and spicy. Thanks to <a href="https://thoughtoverspill.wordpress.com/" target="_blank">Duchess </a>who re-cooked this by adding more oyster sauce, salt, and chili powder while I busied myself with the other pasta. It ended tastier and more Asian-y.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEicH5-WVc1Hoo3VIi6sqwqGQnE2KNrUE4JJGfxBVHYZ1meK3opT4C5955tkCUxb4llJ9egin9SBLqIzh3-8Ut31VwVVCGUdecyY5ogjuT6K9hHekhMRdLk31d29zeZSdfNmwJCZT4I9-Kg/s1600/spicy+tuna+mushroom+pasta.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="what to do during housewarming, housewarming, spicy tuna mushroom pasta, " border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEicH5-WVc1Hoo3VIi6sqwqGQnE2KNrUE4JJGfxBVHYZ1meK3opT4C5955tkCUxb4llJ9egin9SBLqIzh3-8Ut31VwVVCGUdecyY5ogjuT6K9hHekhMRdLk31d29zeZSdfNmwJCZT4I9-Kg/s640/spicy+tuna+mushroom+pasta.jpg" title="" width="640" /></a></div>
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This is the other pasta which I love cooking in almost all types of occasion. <span style="color: #073763;">Spicy Tuna & Mushroom pasta</span> has been my safe haven when going Italian. You can't go wrong with it. Although this one wasn't the crowd favorite that night, thanks to the rookie Charlie.</div>
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After dinner, we spontaneously watched <span style="color: #4c1130;">The Conjuring</span>. It wasn't my first to see it yet I still contributed an amount of screams enough to awaken the neighboring apartment dwellers. It was before midnight when we finished the movie and for lack of better things to do, we entertained ourselves by creating these crazy videos. Excuse my already oily hair. And the brows, please don't look for them. They really almost automatically walk out on me after dinner time. #storyofmybrowlesslife</div>
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We called it a night at a little past 2 in the morning. And this is the final video. Notice how <strike>I tried to retouch </strike>my brows went back to life. Haha!</div>
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The weather is in rage again outside. As I write this, the whole of Metro Manila along with the nearby cities and provinces is already on Red Rainfall Alert due to the Southwest Monsoon and tropical storm Maring. Keep safe and dry, Philippines!<br />
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