Hubby and I had a busy schedule today. We met his side of the family in Alabang Town Center(ATC) in the afternoon, and saw my side in my parents' home for dinner.
We started out with lunch at Pancake House (our favorite for cheap and satisfying meals) and a stroll around ATC while waiting for his family. Of course we had to pass by Tutto Moda where a lot of new stocks just came in. I saw this pair of Tod's shoes at 65% off that would be a perfect match to my 65% off bag! I also discovered Cereo where home fragrance oils were sold. The oils are cheaper here than the brands that I usually buy (Body Shop at P250 per 10ml bottle, Zen Zest at P110 per 15ml bottle, Fruits and Passion at P845 per 30ml bottle) at P195 per 30ml bottle. I decided to try two of the variants. Hopefully I will like these after I try them the next few days. Of course the highlight of the afternoon was coffee at Coffee Bean and Tea Leaf and ice cream at Haagen Dazs with Hubby's family.
For dinner, my Uncle B (my Dad's brother) and his family, who are now based in Canada, came to visit. We had a great time updating each other. The last time I saw my Uncle B and Aunt A would be about 3 years ago, but the last time I saw my cousin J would be more than 15 years ago. We were especially interested in how life is in Canada, asking about the job market and the cost of living there. Just something to think about for the future...
Just one of those days when we feel thankful for having our families:-)
Sunday, September 30, 2007
Saturday, September 29, 2007
TGIS!
It has been so long since Hubby and I spent a relaxing Saturday, just the two of us. We fixed things up at home in the morning and had a beef salpicao lunch. We left the house in the afternoon to catch the mass at Santuario de San Antonio in Forbes. I promised Hubby I'll treat him to La Nuovo Pasteleria at the San Antonio Plaza in Forbes for dinner. I've been dying to go there since I heard good reviews of the place. It was a very pleasant dining experience, very good food and good value for money. Hubby says it reminded him of the small cafes in Florence. We ordered the bruschetta appetizer not knowing that they served appetizers on the house, pasta with olive oil, garlic and shrimps which was very tasty, and the chicken fillet dish. We were very full! We also learned that we can buy sundried tomatoes,smoked salmon and fresh mozzarella there.
After dinner, we decided to pass by Bonifacio High Street before going home, to have coffee perhaps or just walk around and see what's new. First stop was All Flip Flops, which was fortunately on sale. I bought myself a pair of Havaianas (only my third...). We also went to Alessi which is currently having its soft opening. We had a great time there, the people were so informative and very helpful. Hubby has been dying to buy a wine bottle opener (which were all one of a kind), unfortunately, they still don't honor credit cards, so... maybe next time (what a convenient excuse, hehe). We found a lot of very interesting items for the home... the items were expensive but very unique. We told ourselves that we would buy to reward ourselves for all the hardwork we've been doing:-) Next stop was Bo Concept, the furniture store where we drooled on living room, dining and bedroom furniture. Hey, there's nothing wrong with dreaming.
Last stop was Fruits and Passion, where they had some items on special promotion. One of our favorite things to indulge in are home fragrance oils and scented candles, and some variants were on special. We also learned that this brand is part of the Stores Specialists group so if you have the Rustan's discount card, you get 10% off on regular items for cash purchases.
It was another great day to be with Hubby, and to relax and forget about work and teaching:-)
After dinner, we decided to pass by Bonifacio High Street before going home, to have coffee perhaps or just walk around and see what's new. First stop was All Flip Flops, which was fortunately on sale. I bought myself a pair of Havaianas (only my third...). We also went to Alessi which is currently having its soft opening. We had a great time there, the people were so informative and very helpful. Hubby has been dying to buy a wine bottle opener (which were all one of a kind), unfortunately, they still don't honor credit cards, so... maybe next time (what a convenient excuse, hehe). We found a lot of very interesting items for the home... the items were expensive but very unique. We told ourselves that we would buy to reward ourselves for all the hardwork we've been doing:-) Next stop was Bo Concept, the furniture store where we drooled on living room, dining and bedroom furniture. Hey, there's nothing wrong with dreaming.
Last stop was Fruits and Passion, where they had some items on special promotion. One of our favorite things to indulge in are home fragrance oils and scented candles, and some variants were on special. We also learned that this brand is part of the Stores Specialists group so if you have the Rustan's discount card, you get 10% off on regular items for cash purchases.
It was another great day to be with Hubby, and to relax and forget about work and teaching:-)
We Love Ikea!
Just a short post on a brand that Hubby and I love, Ikea. Our first exposure to the store was in Hongkong about 7 years ago, and we have loved it since then. Everytime we are in Hongkong and Singapore, we would buy a lot of items that we could easily bring back home. Our purchases have so far been limited to candle holders and napkin holders (plus the usual supply of tea light candles and colored paper napkins), picture frames, rugs, toilet paper holders, wall lamps, bedsheets and pillowcases, silverware,wine racks and kitchen towels. We would love to live in either Singapore or Hongkong so we can furnish our home with all things Ikea:-)
Thursday, September 20, 2007
Goodies from Hongkong
Hubby just got back from Hongkong and he brought home the following for me:
1. Baileys' Mint - my most favorite alcoholic drink!
2. After Eight Chocolate Mints - my most favorite kind of chocolates
3. Colored paper napkins from Ikea
4. Tea light candles from Ikea
5. Leather strap from LV which can be used for one of my pochette accessoires. He originally planned to get me something that we can use for our trip to hold our passports, cellphone and some cash ( a small bag that can be worn across the body), but the sales associate showed him that you can actually just buy longer straps if you already have the pochette. Hubby saved more than HKD1,500.
He wanted to buy home fragrance oils from the Body Shop, but it is actually more expensive in Hongkong than here in Manila.
Thank you, Hubby, for remembering me during your trip! I love you :-)
1. Baileys' Mint - my most favorite alcoholic drink!
2. After Eight Chocolate Mints - my most favorite kind of chocolates
3. Colored paper napkins from Ikea
4. Tea light candles from Ikea
5. Leather strap from LV which can be used for one of my pochette accessoires. He originally planned to get me something that we can use for our trip to hold our passports, cellphone and some cash ( a small bag that can be worn across the body), but the sales associate showed him that you can actually just buy longer straps if you already have the pochette. Hubby saved more than HKD1,500.
He wanted to buy home fragrance oils from the Body Shop, but it is actually more expensive in Hongkong than here in Manila.
Thank you, Hubby, for remembering me during your trip! I love you :-)
US Trip Update
New York City, November 2006Hubby and I are really getting excited about our upcoming trip. We have finally booked our tickets to the US. We are set to leave at the end of December and will be away for a total of 22 days! We thought that we would be away for such a long time, but now that we are working on our itinerary, we now realize that 22 days are not enough. It is so hard to decide which places we should give up, and we originally just planned to visit around 8 cities across the country.
Our days are now filled with communicating with our friends and relatives in the US about our schedule, and up to now, we don't have a fixed schedule yet. But it is really exciting and our days are now inspired because we have a lot of things to look forward to. Even if I am always tired from work and teaching, I just think that every cent I earn from my two jobs would go to something that Hubby and I have dreamed about for most of the year. It would be a fitting way to celebrate our 11th year together :-)
Sunday, September 16, 2007
Home Alone 2
Hubby is again leaving for another business trip tomorrow. This time it's to Hongkong. I wanted badly to go with him, but we had just confirmed our US trip at the end of December and he says let's just be practical and save up for that trip. Besides, it's no longer sale season in Hongkong, so... what would I do there daw? As if all I do in Hongkong is shop! :-)
Anyway, I've planned the following activities until he arrives on Wednesday evening:
Sunday, Sept 16 - Bring Hubby to airport at 10:30AM and then have lunch and dinner with my family. Work at home (have a deadline at 10AM on Monday)
Monday, Sept 17 - Work during the day, classes in the evening. One episode of Brothers and Sisters when I get home.
Tuesday, Sept 18 - Marathon of Brothers and Sisters until I get sleepy :-)
Anyway, I've planned the following activities until he arrives on Wednesday evening:
Sunday, Sept 16 - Bring Hubby to airport at 10:30AM and then have lunch and dinner with my family. Work at home (have a deadline at 10AM on Monday)
Monday, Sept 17 - Work during the day, classes in the evening. One episode of Brothers and Sisters when I get home.
Tuesday, Sept 18 - Marathon of Brothers and Sisters until I get sleepy :-)
My Niece is 1 !
With her Dad, my brother N. Like her Ninang Regina, she loves travel!
With her Lola C, playing with Ninang's bag. Apparently she also loves BAGS!
With Tito E, whose birthday was the day before (Tito E's birthday is Sept 8, my niece S's birthday is Sept 9)Tuesday, September 11, 2007
Triple Birthday Celebrations
I started planning Hubby's birthday weeks ago. I wanted to have it in a restaurant that can accommodate our families and his friends and will allow us to spend as much time with them. I was thinking that having it in a restaurant would allow us to relax and spend more time talking with our loved ones. When I discussed this with Hubby, he wanted it differently. He wanted to celebrate his birthday in our home and he would plan the menu! It's his birthday and so we will celebrate it exactly the way he wants it! We planned for three occasions so that everyone can be accommodated and we can spend a lot of time with each of our guests.
Birthday Part 1 -September 7, After-dinner cocktails
The first celebration was with his college barkada. Not in the picture are BM and wife TM who left a bit earlier. (Can you see my birthday gift to him in the background?) We had grilled sausages with Hubby's special dipping sauce, cold cuts and cheese (from Santi's), and salad (courtesy of AA and CA) which tasted exactly like Italianni's Sicilian Chicken Salad. Of course, with overflowing chips, nuts, wine (a bottle courtesy of RC and CC) and beer. The party ended around 3AM, but Hubby and I slept at 3:30AM after cleaning up and washing the dishes:-)
Birthday Part 2- September 8, Lunch
The next celebration was lunch on his birthday with our families. Our families have spent a lot of time together over the years of our marriage, and it feels like we are just one family. We have already spent two Christmas Eves together, checked in at the Linden Hotel. That is how close our families have gotten to be. Our menu: Ebi tempura, grilled pork belly, grilled tuna, stuffed chicken (courtesy of CO and AM), coleslaw and russian salads (courtesy of our parents). Also three cakes, courtesy of my parents and my brother-in-law and wife.
Birthday Part 1 -September 7, After-dinner cocktails
The first celebration was with his college barkada. Not in the picture are BM and wife TM who left a bit earlier. (Can you see my birthday gift to him in the background?) We had grilled sausages with Hubby's special dipping sauce, cold cuts and cheese (from Santi's), and salad (courtesy of AA and CA) which tasted exactly like Italianni's Sicilian Chicken Salad. Of course, with overflowing chips, nuts, wine (a bottle courtesy of RC and CC) and beer. The party ended around 3AM, but Hubby and I slept at 3:30AM after cleaning up and washing the dishes:-)
Birthday Part 2- September 8, Lunch
The next celebration was lunch on his birthday with our families. Our families have spent a lot of time together over the years of our marriage, and it feels like we are just one family. We have already spent two Christmas Eves together, checked in at the Linden Hotel. That is how close our families have gotten to be. Our menu: Ebi tempura, grilled pork belly, grilled tuna, stuffed chicken (courtesy of CO and AM), coleslaw and russian salads (courtesy of our parents). Also three cakes, courtesy of my parents and my brother-in-law and wife.
Birthday Part 3- September 8, Dinner
Hubby's good friends from work came for dinner. For dinner, we decided to use our new Bodum Fondue set (shown here), cooking the beef tenderloin cubes right on the dining table. Hubby prepared three kinds of dipping sauce for the beef cubes. We also had bruschetta with pesto,mozarella and pepper spread, pasta with pesto sauce, pasta with hungarian sausage and garlic, and tossed vegetable salad with kani and ham slices. Desserts were Strawberry and Walnut Cake from Mom and Tina (courtesy of MB) and Brazo de Mercedes from a private home in Dasmarinas Village (courtesy of DO). Everything was perfect! Of course we had wine (two bottles courtesy of AB and SP) and beer until late that night.
Friday, September 7, 2007
Happy Birthday, My Love!
Duomo, Milan, March 2007It's hubby's birthday tomorrow. And tonight, we are celebrating the first of THREE celebrations:-) Tonight will be with his college barkada, tomorrow lunch will be with our families and tomorrow evening with his officemates, all to be celebrated here in our home.
To my hubby, thank you very much for everything, you are the best! My wish for you is for continued success in whatever you set your heart to do, and happiness always!
Will post pictures of the celebrations soon!
Thursday, September 6, 2007
End of Term
It's the end of another term, and I'm just shocked at how time flies. I spent the last few days preparing the final exams, checking quizzes and exams, grading projects and finally computing the final grades. I always find this time stressful. We only have a few days to do everything including submitting the grades. This time we only had 4 days to administer the exams, check the exams and submit the grades! I still feel like a zombie after the all-nighter I pulled off last night. (Well, it wasn't all schoolwork, I had a Management Committee presentation scheduled this morning too).
The most difficult task for a teacher I think is giving a grade that the student truly deserves. That includes the decision whether to pass or fail a student. I have always been clear about my expectations from the start of classes, I always wonder why students are still shocked when they receive a failing grade. Don't get me wrong, giving a failing grade is one of the things that I hate doing most, but I do it when it is necessary.
This term, I've had several cases where students have exceeded the allowed absences. That is the most unforgiveable for me and I seldom give considerations for this. I also do not give considerations for those who lack the requirements, especially quizzes. I mean, the least that a student should do is to take all the quizzes. They are always scheduled in advance. But would you believe me when I say that there are still students who miss these quizzes? I really hate them. I don't allow make-up quizzes unless there is death in the family or the student himself is confined in the hospital. Also, I keep strict deadlines for projects and do not accept late projects. I know that my subjects are not easy, but I expect students to at least comply with the requirements. I try to adjust exam results as long I think it is but fair to do so. In many ways, I consider myself a very considerate teacher.
It is hard to be a fair teacher, and I'm still learning even after three years of teaching. Sometimes I still think of students who I should have or shouldn't have passed. But I guess the bottomline is that the students are in school to learn --- and if they don't give enough effort , they will not learn, and I would have failed as a teacher if I allow them to complete the term without learning anything.
After the distribution of grades today, I'm not sure if I'm looking forward to another term!
The most difficult task for a teacher I think is giving a grade that the student truly deserves. That includes the decision whether to pass or fail a student. I have always been clear about my expectations from the start of classes, I always wonder why students are still shocked when they receive a failing grade. Don't get me wrong, giving a failing grade is one of the things that I hate doing most, but I do it when it is necessary.
This term, I've had several cases where students have exceeded the allowed absences. That is the most unforgiveable for me and I seldom give considerations for this. I also do not give considerations for those who lack the requirements, especially quizzes. I mean, the least that a student should do is to take all the quizzes. They are always scheduled in advance. But would you believe me when I say that there are still students who miss these quizzes? I really hate them. I don't allow make-up quizzes unless there is death in the family or the student himself is confined in the hospital. Also, I keep strict deadlines for projects and do not accept late projects. I know that my subjects are not easy, but I expect students to at least comply with the requirements. I try to adjust exam results as long I think it is but fair to do so. In many ways, I consider myself a very considerate teacher.
It is hard to be a fair teacher, and I'm still learning even after three years of teaching. Sometimes I still think of students who I should have or shouldn't have passed. But I guess the bottomline is that the students are in school to learn --- and if they don't give enough effort , they will not learn, and I would have failed as a teacher if I allow them to complete the term without learning anything.
After the distribution of grades today, I'm not sure if I'm looking forward to another term!
Sunday, September 2, 2007
The Past Two Weeks...
August 20- Lunch with MS Computational Finance Barkada at Cafe Mediteranean , Podium. Coffee at Segafredo and a Movie (A Love Story).
My friends from graduate school rarely get together as we all have been extremely busy with our careers. CC is now based in Hongkong working for a multinational bank, CB is a manager at one of the top local banks and GB is with the ADB. CC is home for a vacation, hence the mini-reunion. AB, a manager of a local bank and CT, a director of another bank were not able to make it. We had a great time. The last time we saw each other would be about a year ago, CC was still working at the ADB then. We updated each other on our lives and the lives of our former classmates until GB had to go back to work. Us girls had coffee, until CC said that she wants to watch a Filipino movie. "A Love Story" was showing and we decided to watch it. I didn't like the movie and I feel I wasted P160. It was too OA for me:-) But I had a great time bonding with good friends.
August 21- Lunch with staff and ex-staff GA
GA was my staff for five years until he left the Company in March to work for a multinational company in Singapore. He was home for a few days and he visited us in the office. It was good to see him as he regaled us with stories of being an OFW in Singapore. He says that it took some time adjusting to the Singaporean work culture as the people there work too hard. But overall, I think that he has adjusted well and has already proven that the Filipino professional is a worthwhile investment. Over the months, he has been given increasing responsibilities, and I'm so proud of his accomplishments.
August 24- Dinner with FF at Capisce, Metrowalk
FF is a good friend since I started out with the Company. He retired from the Company after more than 25 years of service and is now an AVP of one of the biggest corporations in the Philippines. I love the idea that there is life after retirement, and a professional life at that! It makes me look forward to my own retirement.
August 25- Dinner with College Barkada at JV's condo in Makati
RW, our college barkada who is now based in Hongkong was home, and so we had a get together at JV and DV's elegant and cozy condo (our favorite party place) in Makati. MS celebrated her birthday recently and so the occasion also served as her birthday treat. She brought lasagna, barbecue and Conti's famous baked salmon. JV, our favorite chef, also cooked her own specialties such as chicken cacciatore, fried calamari and spaghetti. We definitely enjoyed the good food, but more so the company. We also called DL and DW, both based in the US, who were missing all the fun!
September 1- Day with Hubby
Hubby and I enjoyed this day tremendously. We had a great lunch at Cafe Bola, Greenbelt 3 (adobo flakes and carambola with curry sauce, yum!) and watched Bourne Ultimatum. Good thing I thought the movie was great. I would hate myself if I spent P160 on a bad movie again. I thought the twists and suspense were great, Matt Damon was very good and I loved the scenes in London and New York. It made me want to go back to London (the first and last time I was there was in 1987) and made me look forward to visiting New York again. We had gelato (our favorite dessert) at Gelatone after the movie.
My friends from graduate school rarely get together as we all have been extremely busy with our careers. CC is now based in Hongkong working for a multinational bank, CB is a manager at one of the top local banks and GB is with the ADB. CC is home for a vacation, hence the mini-reunion. AB, a manager of a local bank and CT, a director of another bank were not able to make it. We had a great time. The last time we saw each other would be about a year ago, CC was still working at the ADB then. We updated each other on our lives and the lives of our former classmates until GB had to go back to work. Us girls had coffee, until CC said that she wants to watch a Filipino movie. "A Love Story" was showing and we decided to watch it. I didn't like the movie and I feel I wasted P160. It was too OA for me:-) But I had a great time bonding with good friends.
August 21- Lunch with staff and ex-staff GA
GA was my staff for five years until he left the Company in March to work for a multinational company in Singapore. He was home for a few days and he visited us in the office. It was good to see him as he regaled us with stories of being an OFW in Singapore. He says that it took some time adjusting to the Singaporean work culture as the people there work too hard. But overall, I think that he has adjusted well and has already proven that the Filipino professional is a worthwhile investment. Over the months, he has been given increasing responsibilities, and I'm so proud of his accomplishments.
August 24- Dinner with FF at Capisce, Metrowalk
FF is a good friend since I started out with the Company. He retired from the Company after more than 25 years of service and is now an AVP of one of the biggest corporations in the Philippines. I love the idea that there is life after retirement, and a professional life at that! It makes me look forward to my own retirement.
August 25- Dinner with College Barkada at JV's condo in Makati
RW, our college barkada who is now based in Hongkong was home, and so we had a get together at JV and DV's elegant and cozy condo (our favorite party place) in Makati. MS celebrated her birthday recently and so the occasion also served as her birthday treat. She brought lasagna, barbecue and Conti's famous baked salmon. JV, our favorite chef, also cooked her own specialties such as chicken cacciatore, fried calamari and spaghetti. We definitely enjoyed the good food, but more so the company. We also called DL and DW, both based in the US, who were missing all the fun!
September 1- Day with Hubby
Hubby and I enjoyed this day tremendously. We had a great lunch at Cafe Bola, Greenbelt 3 (adobo flakes and carambola with curry sauce, yum!) and watched Bourne Ultimatum. Good thing I thought the movie was great. I would hate myself if I spent P160 on a bad movie again. I thought the twists and suspense were great, Matt Damon was very good and I loved the scenes in London and New York. It made me want to go back to London (the first and last time I was there was in 1987) and made me look forward to visiting New York again. We had gelato (our favorite dessert) at Gelatone after the movie.
We also attended the 1st birthday party of hubby's cousin's kid at Cafe Adriatico, Westgate, Alabang. But before that, we went to Tutto Moda, the outlet shop of the Stores Specialists Inc., exclusive Philippine distributor of Tod's, Prada, Burberry, Gucci, Ralph Lauren and many other international brands. We managed to snag a Tod's bag (for me) at 65% discount, and Prada shoes for hubby also at 65% off! Untimely purchases, what with the upcoming US trip and trying to save, but we were very happy with the purchases :-)
Dinner was with my family at my parents' home where we spent time just talking andplaying with our niece. It was very relaxing and comforting to be with family...
It was a great day to be with Hubby, especially after that lonely weekend without him.
Saturday, September 1, 2007
Home Alone
Last week, Hubby went on a business trip to Malaysia and Singapore for six days. That left me alone at home for almost a week! Good thing I had work and school to fill up most of the days. I don't really like Hubby going on a business trip on weekend because we usually spend weekends together, but this time he had to be away, and a long weekend at that! At least Saturday was spent at a convention for accountants, and Saturday evening with my college barkada. Sunday was spent with my family and classes. We had to conduct make-up classes because of the two typhoons the past two weeks. I also had to go to school Monday eventhough it was a holiday.
Despite the "busy" days, I still had a lot of time in my hands and I took advantage of the time to catch up with DVDs. I had a marathon of the following:
1. Brothers and Sisters - starring Sally Field and Calista Flockhart about a family.
2. Friday Night Lights - I love this show! It's about a highschool football team and the lives of its coach and players. I was quickly addicted to it. Can't wait to get my hands on new(er) episodes. It's already in the second season in the US, and I only have the first 12 episodes of Season 1.
3. CSI New York - I started one episode, but got paranoid because I was alone, I didn't really want to watch murders!
My meals were oatmeal, pan de sal and bottled sardines because I was too lazy to prepare anything else.
I told Hubby he should let me tag along on his next business trip! His next business trip is to Hongkong. Abangan!
Despite the "busy" days, I still had a lot of time in my hands and I took advantage of the time to catch up with DVDs. I had a marathon of the following:
1. Brothers and Sisters - starring Sally Field and Calista Flockhart about a family.
2. Friday Night Lights - I love this show! It's about a highschool football team and the lives of its coach and players. I was quickly addicted to it. Can't wait to get my hands on new(er) episodes. It's already in the second season in the US, and I only have the first 12 episodes of Season 1.
3. CSI New York - I started one episode, but got paranoid because I was alone, I didn't really want to watch murders!
My meals were oatmeal, pan de sal and bottled sardines because I was too lazy to prepare anything else.
I told Hubby he should let me tag along on his next business trip! His next business trip is to Hongkong. Abangan!
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