My version of Pesto Recipe

Ever since I saw on YouTube how to make pesto I've always wanted to recreate it in my kitchen. The ingredients are few and the procedure is easy to follow. I've tried doing it by chopping the basil using knife but it requires a major elbow grease. Maybe that's why chefs prefer to make it using food processor. Thank you to my husband's generosity because now, I can make pesto and other recipes that would require serious grinding and mincing using my very own food processor.

I cooked some wheat penne pasta and add pan fried chicken breast which I marinated in Pink Himalayan salt, ground pepper and dried basil for 4 hours and voilà - dinner is served!

Baga Manila in (All Home) Imus, Cavite

Lately, hubby and I have been going back and forth to All Home in Imus to buy some stuff for our house. This store is huge and has everything you would probably need from building to furnishing your house. That's why we would always be here for hours just window shopping. But after strolling, it would be nice to sit while having a snack. There's a kiosk inside All Home selling steamed hotdogs and siomai but you can also find this in other convenience stores. Good thing Baga Manila put up a branch at the parking space of All Home Imus.

lots of empty chair since it is still early.

Peach Mango Pop

This recipe was inspired by Jollibee Peach Mango Pie (obviously). I really like the combination of peach and mango either in my pie or in my waffle, so when I went to S&R last weekend with my husband and found this Dole Peach Mango on sale, I thought I could use it to make my favorite dessert. There was just a slight problem. I do not know how to make a pie crust and I don't have a waffle maker. I'm not an expert in the kitchen so I just settled for popsicles.

This recipe is so easy, the ingredients are very few, no need for any fancy kitchen tool, and you can do this at home with your kids too. Let's start!

Whole Day Pig-Out at Balay Indang (Indang, Cavite)

Whenever I go on a vacation, I always make sure that I get the value of my hard earned money since I only get to do some R&R after slaving myself to work for months. It’s nice to go in a place where you can relax and unwind and at the same time experience new things and worry nothing about where or what to eat. Good thing there is a B&B near our home that has everything I was looking for – Balay Indang. You may check my previous blog (click here) to know more about this place because this page is dedicated to all the sumptuous, delish, mouthwatering, plush, healthy, and hefty meals we had at Balay Indang. WARNING: Make sure you have full stomach before scrolling down because it is going to make you hungry. Go ahead, grab some food or better yet get a towel to wipe the drool off your mouth. JJJ

Staycation at Balay Indang (Indang, Cavite)

After some alone time with my husband, it’s time to celebrate my special day with my family. I rarely celebrate my birthday even when I was a kid. No big parties, cakes or balloons. It’s not because my parents don’t love me, but it’s because they are average earners who would rather spend their hard earned money for my education. My mom would just cook my favorite ulam and buy my favorite kakanin then we’ll have lunch or dinner at home. It's a simple celebration and I never ask them for more because I understand that we have to save for other important things. Fast forward to 2015, I’ve realized that our family never had bonding moments outside our home. We only celebrate special occasions at home and my parents have never experienced traveling for relaxation. They both hate long travel hours and I don’t want to spend too much time on the road either that’s why I looked for some place within Cavite where we could still relax and have quality time together. So, I decided to bring them to Balay Indang. At first, I was hesitant that my father wouldn’t like the place because there’s no television there. They both love watching Yaya Dub so the thought of not being able to watch Eat Bulaga might not be appealing to them. Of course, I didn’t tell that part to them when I initially invited them for a vacation. I only told them about it when it was already a few days before our check-in schedule. Hehehehe There’s one problem though, we don’t have a car and Balay Indang is somewhere out of route of PUVs. Argh!!! Good thing my mom suggested to rent the jeep we used on my wedding. This is it! Nothing could stop us from enjoying an overnight stay far from the hustle and bustle of Dasmariñas, hehehe.

Staycation destination: checked. Transpo: checked. Food: checked, checked, CHECKED! Let’s go!! 

Lurra Spa (Acacia Hotel Manila)

I’ve been looking forward for my birthday this year because finally, for the first time, my husband and I will be staying in a five star hotel (check our Acacia Hotel experience here). To take everything on the next level, we decided to make a reservation at Lurra Wellness Spa. Honestly, their packages were a bit pricey for us since we don’t usually go to an expensive spa except for Island Spa in Island Cove. We’ve tried their service twice and we were satisfied on both times we were there. Going back to Lurra Wellness Spa (Lurra means Earth), they claim as a haven of rest and relaxation.  They have well-trained therapists that could help you feel rejuvenated with the massages and treatments that they offer. Sounds inviting? Well wait ‘til you read the reviews of other guests who’ve tried their service and I’m sure you would want to make that call now to make a reservation. I know because that’s what I felt after reading blogs about Lurra Wellness Spa.



Lurra Wellness Spa Reception Area

Acaci (Breakfast Buffet at Acacia Hotel Manila)

When my husband and I were still dating, we like trying out different buffet restaurants. We’ve tried Vikings in MOA, Mercado in Resorts World Manila, Lola Maria Restaurant in Mandaluyong, Somethin’ Fishy in Eastwood, buffet breakfast at New Horizon Hotel, Cravings in Shang-ri La Plaza, Nanay Bebeng’s and Probinsya Buffet in Davao, and we’ve even tried the Sun Cruise Manila buffet. We really enjoy eating and we like feasting in buffet restaurants. Lately, we discovered the joy of staycation. You don’t have to travel far, no need to bring huge luggage, no plane tickets required, yet you get to relax, experience new things, and get to try international cuisines buffet style without having to bring your passport.

On my recent birthday, we made an overnight reservation at the Acacia Hotel Manila in Alabang, Muntinlupa (read the story here). I was excited because aside from it's our first time to book in a five star hotel, I was also looking forward to try their buffet. We brought our food for lunch and dinner but we still sneaked in at Acaci to check their menu for dinner.

Staycation at Acacia Hotel Manila (Alabang, Muntinlupa)

This year, I will be celebrating my first birthday as a wife. I wanted it to be extra special since my husband and I just usually go on a date when we were still boyfriend/girlfriend, plus, I am now into staycation. :) So, after browsing the internet, reading blogs related to “best staycation place”, and finding a great deal online, I’ve finally booked us at Acacia Hotel Manila in Alabang, Muntinlupa for an overnight stay. This 5 star hotel offers not just supreme Filipino hospitality but also world-class hotel service. Its interior has a distinct design that exudes sophistication and style but you would still feel comfy, relaxed, and at home. Or at least that’s what it says on their website. This will be our first time to stay in a five star hotel that’s why I was extremely excited and come to think of it, this will be the grandest celebration of my birthday.  

The façade

SeboPacific: Round 2

Aaaaaannnd we’re back! Yes. It’s time to taste what’s in store on their menu. We came their around past 8pm and as expected the place was full packed and there was already one couple waiting to be seated. But we didn’t have to wait that long. As a matter of fact, I was still contemplating on what to order when we were ushered to our table. I know on my last blog about SeboPacific (view here) I said I’ll try their sizzling pork chop but after seeing their menu, I was torn between burger steak, pork chop, and longganisa, hahaha. Oh well, I guess I just have to come back again to try the others.

Cafe Avenue (Imus, Cavite)

We were supposed to visit SeboPacific again last weekend but unfortunately, they were closed. I’ve checked their FB account last October 12 and found out that they are temporarily closed as they prepare for their new menu. Hmmm… interesting! I thought they are closing for good because I heard from one of my agents that SeboPacific is getting complaints from their neighbors because of the problem with parking. Good thing they made an announcement that they will be re-opening after a week. Now, I can’t wait until next week to  try what they’ve been cooking. Check out here my first time to experience their food.

Since our plan to have dinner at  SeboPacific was unsuccessful, we opted to try this newly opened coffee shop called CAFÉ AVENUE along Aguinaldo Highway. The place looks really chic from the outside and most of their customers are students, families, and young couples. We thought why not give it a try since we are in a mission to find local food businesses like this and promote it to our friends in hope to have a place like Aguirre St. in Paranaque or Maginhawa St. and Teachers Village in QC. So, off we go!

#fortheREZofMAYlife: (the making of) The Ring

I was browsing my phone the other day to delete old pictures when I saw our photo while buying our wedding ring. I’ve been wanting to write a blog about it but because of the time constraints while preparing for our wedding, I’ve forgotten about it.

We bought our wedding ring from RL Jewelry in Binondo. It’s the same store where my husband bought my engagement ring (read here the story of his proposal). He read online reviews and dialogues in chat rooms before visiting the store. Knowing him, he wouldn’t buy anything online or in any store unless he is sure about the quality of the product and if the price is reasonable. One million pogi points for my husband for doing “extensive” research about the four C’s, hehehe. I didn’t have any idea what “Four C’s” is all about until he explained it to me. I super appreciated it that he really took time to research about buying rings.

#fortheREZofMAYlife: Our Wedding Photos

After a month since our wedding, we finally got the first glimpse on some of our wedding photos. These were all chosen by our photographer which he posted on Eye in D Sky Facebook page. So far, I’m liking our photos and I can’t wait to see the rest. Looks like we’ll have a hard time choosing which one to add to our photo album.

 

 

SeboPacific: A Must Try!

It’s almost dinner time but you are feeling lazy to cook and you are craving for bulalo, some ribs and thinking of having fruit salad or leche flan for dessert? You thought  of going to Tagaytay but wouldn’t want to drive that far plus it’s petsa de peligro? You had too much Jollibee, McDonalds, Yellow Cab and Army Navy that it already makes you retch just by hearing or saying it? Well, don’t be stressed because there is an alternative place to go to that could satisfy your craving for a less cost. Try SeboPacific in Justinville Subdivision Bacoor, Cavite. 

I visited this place last night with my husband. He found out about this (I think) through one of his agents. My husband was eager to try this place because of the good feedback he heard while it was my curiosity that makes me want to try their food because I was intrigued when my husband said the staff are tattoo artists. Hmmm… What more can they offer aside from showing their gift by painting the skin?! 

Tricycle fare:
15 pesos from the gate of Justinville going to SeboPacific
14 pesos from SeboPacific to hi-way.



Hawaiian Bar-B-Q Tagaytay (The Boutique experience)

I am a self-declared foodie. I like reading food reviews, watching TV shows about food, and recreating some of the recipes in my own kitchen. That’s why when I heard about Hawaiian Bar-B-Q in Tagaytay I told my husband that we MUST try it. I mean, who wouldn’t want to  taste their baby back ribs when every blog you read says it is juicy, delicious, and worth every penny, right? So, after months of slobbering, we finally booked in The Boutique and promised to try their baby back ribs. 

Staycation at The Boutique Bed and Breakfast Tagaytay

Long weekend at last!

My husband and I just wanted to go somewhere where we can relax and unwind and our idea of adventure for this trip includes slouching, eating, and watching TV so we decided to book a hotel for some staycation experience.

We had a few options in mind but the first on our list is The Boutique Bed and Breakfast in Tagaytay. We always wanted to go here ever since we read about this place. I didn't want to spend too much time on the road either so we just decided to go somewhere near Cavite and so we thought this place would be perfect for our plan.



love 'em all

Some say they’ve met their best friends during elementary days and for some it was during high school. Me, I met them when I was in college. That was sixteen years ago but I’m still excited everytime I get to see them. We never fail to talk about our college experiences, classroom booboos, college professors, the first time we met at OSH building, our taxation prof, recollections (with all the drama), REED professors, famous TV shows, class card distribution, enrollment, PE class (dance lesson, aerobics, basketball and swimming with free virus) and other college memories everytime we have a get-together.

It’s nice to have friends who knows how to have fun with simple things and who have the same interests as you, like dining out (Yes! We love to pig eat out). We seldom see each other lately but we always make an effort to stay in touch and to keep everyone updated of our whereabouts. So, before I get emotional here, let me introduce to you the people closest to my heart, my sisters and brother (It’s you Junjun) from another mother… and father, okay another set of parents. The original member of The Philippines Pictionary League (ahem).

The Smart One - he survived college with honor because I was one of his seatmate (bwuahahaha, this is MY blog so I get to say whatever I want)

 

The Beauty Queen - always soft spoken

 

The Law Implementation Officer - a public servant, future congresswoman, Atty. Ember Jan ("J") Juplo.

 

The Businesswoman - contact her in case you are interested in buying wood furniture

 

Ms. Long Legged

The Leader - super active in extra curricular activities

The Artist - she can draw, sing, play the guitar.. very talented girl.

The Proselytizer - my birthday-mate 

Ms. Organize - from Syllabus to cotton buds.. you can find all that inside her bag. :)

The GI (Good Influence) - no need to elaborate

Mr. Health Buff - Oh! You should see how he looks now.

The Spoiled Brat (peace) - BUT she's a thoughtful friend, dependable sister, loving daughter, caring mom and submissive(?!?) wife.

 

Ms. Beauty & Brain (again this is MY blog) - #nuffsaid :)

 

P.S. April, Melay and Sheryl, I don't have your grad pics but you guys are also special in my heart :)

 

BSBA Economics Batch 2003

 



A Filipino Themed Wedding

FINALLY! We had our first conversation about settling down. I was starting to think that he may not have plans of marrying me because we never talk about our “future” together unlike other couples. It was the first Saturday of 2014 and we were to have breakfast at iHOP in MOA. While waiting for our food, I showed him the website of Caleruega in Tagaytay. I wanted to go to that place on a weekend because I’ve read that it is a good place for photo op and to attend a mass (of course! J ). When he saw the picture of the church he said it’s a good place for a wedding since the place is not too small and not too big especially if you don’t plan to invite the whole clan, hehehe. Imagine the smile in my heart when I heard the word “wedding” (kasal). So, to keep my cool and to pretend that I was not excited I just told him that I was also thinking the same thing because I had an officemate before who got married in that place. After a few conversations about marriage, we started to save money and searched for economical suppliers.

We started planning for our wedding January of 2015. That’s right after he proposed to me (here’s the link for the story of his proposal). The first thing we did was to make a church reservation. We didn’t get married in Caleruega because we found a better location plus the fee is cheaper. Our wedding was held in San Antonio de Padua Church in Pooc II, Silang, Cavite. It’s the same church where Karylle and Yael Yuzon tied the knot. We would always pass by this church whenever we go to Tartaria where his brother lives. We had our venue in euf Rocina’s just right beside the church which make it very convenient for us and for our guests. The place has spacious parking lot, it has lodging area which can accommodate 15 pax, the pavilion can hold up to 100 guests, and the price is reasonable.



#fortheREZofMAYlife: DIY Wedding Cord

I decided to make our own wedding cord because first, I can design it according to my preference. Second, it is cheaper compared if I ordered it from a craft store and lastly, I have plenty of time to learn how to make one.

The first thing I did is to ask my husband (my boyfriend then) to accompany me to Quiapo. I bought my supplies in Wellmanson and DYI Beads in front of Quiapo church. I only had a couple of hours each day before going to bed and so it took me three days before I finish my "obra".



I bought red and white rice beads, pins, rings, spacers and baubles of my choice (crucifix, brooch and our initials)

The (unexpected) proposal

It was a few days before Christmas of 2014. I thought he just wanted to have breakfast so we can have our pre-Christmas celebration together since we will not be seeing each other again until after Christmas. We met at Café France in Mall of Asia. It was around 9 in the morning so we have the whole place for ourselves. After the waiter took our orders he grabbed his camera. We love taking pictures and videos so it didn’t occur to me that he had other plans that day. While “vlogging” he took something from his backpack, opened the tiny box and asked me if I will marry him. I was surprised and I couldn’t stop smiling. We were already saving for our wedding at that time so I wasn’t expecting for a proposal anymore. I was sooo kilig after he put the ring on my finger. I can’t wait to begin our lives together.

I was only able to take some pictures because I was still overwhelmed after the proposal.

Spinach and Mushroom Omelet and Croissant - this is our favorite

#fortheREZofMAYlife: Prenup and Props

That’s a wrap!

 

After almost 6 hours of non-stop smiling, we're finally done with our engagement session. It was really fun although I had a stiff neck afterwards because I had to turn my head in 180 degrees angle (at least that's how it feels like J) just to have that perfect shot, hehe. My eyes were strained because we had to look at each other's eyes while we are doing nose-to-nose. I guess that's what the artistas feels after a long day of photoshoot. J

We found a lot of places in Tagaytay that would be great for photo sessions but the fees are more than what we are willing to spend that's why it took us almost a month to find the perfect location for us. We also started making our own props while searching for the place. Everything that we used from banners, paper mache letters, and pin wheels were handcrafted by me and my fiancé. The preparations and the actual prenup session was really a fun experience.

 

So, without further ado, let me share some of the actual and behind the scene photos of our engagement session.