Monday, December 29, 2008

Road Trip part 2; Ice Cream indulgence

I was actually planning to visit once again the night market located inside the BF resort here in Las-PiƱas not because I wanted to buy something but simply because I wanted to eat something so yesterday, when Jen told me she wanted to go out I didn't hesitate one bit and immediately said I'm on my way. (haha, strike of desperate measure)

We strolled along the mall when I decided to buy an Ateneo Jacket from Addidas but they only have extra large sizes (they have a lot from La Salle but, sorry I'm not a fan) Moving on, Jen decided that we should just watch a movie but to our dismay, they only cater Manila Film Festival movies. Still, with not much choice we ended up watching one (and I wont tell you what it was, hahaha)

Before we hit the floor, we bought some Ice Cream at Dairy Queen and we chilled, literally and it sent shivers all over my body.

I love it. Strawberry chocolate filled. I got to go now but before so, maybe I could give an entry about Road Trip part 3 huh?


Alvin

Sunday, December 28, 2008

Christmas Party 2; Our Resolution

Yesterday, I celebrated with my Klaud and surprisingly there was Mikko, Jan and Cla with Tin. It was our version of the said "well planned" Christmas party that they suggested long before the months ended with a "ber" (talk about planning)

We're just simply catching up that's all so we chose to eat at California Pizza Kitchen (did I mention it right?) Afterwards, the parade of cakes was issued.

We ordered 4 cute cakes and believe it or not, we ate it all. Like I said, we we're just catching up but our mini talk went sideways and detoured back to the topic I was avoiding. Who's fault is it? That was the question.

All I can say is that, I don't care and it's something I wont bother finding out. Then, who would have thought that my words would be the turning point of everything? (Hahaha, talk about being smooth talker)

And just when I thought everything was over and done, poof, another revelation (that happened this morning)

I really love this group, you guys never fail to make me laugh, get angry, be happy all at the same time and you're driving me crazy. Let's just be happy and again (do take note of it!) it's all our call, we make choices and we make the most out of it. Understanding is the final key!

Wooot, I am so good it amazes me from time to time. Anyway, we get to celebrate when they come back so let's just be happy and celebrate the new year with smile on our hearts (hahaha, corny!)

Got to go guys! Stay posted!


Alvin

Christmas Party; A Realization

Ok, another missed event that I forgot to blog. Last December 22 (I know, it's been awhile) I had a Christmas Party together with some of the closest H.S friends I have (Jewel, Grace, Marvin and Chelyne)There's only the 5 of us but that's far more better than having no one for a Christmas Holiday feast right? (I'm not pertaining to any, hahahaha)

It's really new for us to celebrate things this way. Usually we'd celebrate per 2-3 groups and just simply catch up, have a little talk and eat outside, that's about it. But for this year, we thought it would be more fun if we do things together. We went to the grocery store, bought stuffs from our own account and then cook for everyone else. It's rather amusing that everyone agreed to my idea.

The fun part rises when we ought to showcase our talents in cooking and baking and poof, the dish is ready to be serve.

1st stop, Chelyne and Marvin's Pork Sliced.. uhm.. (I forgot, but it's a Chinese Cuisine) It's really good and I find it rather aromatic in a sense. It resembled the dish that Klau and I ordered at the Highlands. It goes perfectly with the wine that Marvin bought.

2nd stop, my Beef Casserole. I never expected that it would turn out good but my bad for not even thinking about the after effects. Beef + Potatoes + Cheese, It's already packed with everything we needed for that night's dinner. But nevertheless, it was good (very good! haha)

3rd stop, Roast Chicken by Jewel and Grace, I actually loved the aroma and the flavor of the Chicken. The presentation was rather cute thanks to those potatoes that we miscalculated (just kidding)

And if it seems that it was enough, there's still more. And when I say more, I mean it.

4th stop, Cheesy Penne (Supposed to be baked but, well) Another dish of mine. It may seem that every dish that I make consist of more than enough of what is needed for our party. But I really am happy since for me it was really really good. Grace liked it a lot (I guess)

And now, for the finale. We all made this possible even if we are terrorized with missing ingredients and time pressure (and not to mention, drowsiness)

For our dessert, Bitter Sweet Chocolate Truffles. Well, there was no trace of it the next morning, need I say more?

Prior to my Family reunion last 24 where I was able to make my two masterpiece was this. Not a complete failure. It only lacks a greater presentation.

The party was a success and it was great. Something I will surely remember for a long time. We are actually looking forward for our next reunion. Something Grand and Exquisite.

Stay posted for my next entries about Road Trip part 2 and my Christmas party full of cakes with Jan and my Klaud.




P.S


See, some people think they are the only ones capable of having fun. (hahaha, again, I'm not pertaining to anyone) All I want to say is that, it's our choice, lets make the most out of it. That's my realization. Let's all be happy! Happy New Year!


Alvin

Wednesday, December 24, 2008

Merry Christmas!; My Bitter Sweet Holiday

First things first. Merry Christmas to each and everyone of you. I do wish everyone a happy holiday this season of hope. I really need a long nap but before so, I'd like to thank those who remembered to greet me and my family. We are having a family reunion and up until now, everyone is still hyped out. But while they are singing along with the tune of that "magic sing" my sister bought, I'll be here blogging about my Bitter Sweet Holiday.

Early morning (1:30 am) this day of the 24th. I baked 2 cakes for my family and relatives. It turned out very nice, far too good than what I expected. I slept at 6 am when I received the bitter part which is reserved for the latter part.

I baked my own version of a Bitter sweet chocolate truffles. This time, I added coffee in it just to give a twist to my masterpiece. I was kinda sleepy when I was doing the presentation so it might seem like it was melting but its not! (haha, I'm not being defensive)

I come from a long line of great cooks. Its quite funny since I never thought I had the talent in me and from our family, I'm the only one who knows how to bake.

The second cake that I baked is the Molten Chocolate Cake but since I fridge it for more than 6 hours, the molten part have been the frozen one. It taste good but I was disappointed since I wanted the molten chocolate to ooze out of the cake (O well, at least now I know)

For those of you who wants to order cakes from me, I'll be more than happy to bake for you. May it be for birthdays, parties even wedding!(dream on)

Kidding aside, I think I have done a good job.

Now, for the bitter part. I had my hands burned (1st degree that is) but worse than that, my Christmas party together with Chris and J.C didn't pull through. But just like what I kept telling to everyone else, its always our call, whatever happens is the result of the choices we make. And I choose to be happy! and so should everyone else ok?

I'll be going for now since it's movie time! Stay posted for my entry about my other Christmas parties that I have been attending. I think I'm gonna be so fat after this season. See you all!


P.S


Thanks to everyone! To my mom, I love you always!

To J.C, there's always the next time. Sorry for what's been happening.

To Chris, hey keep me updated and by the time you get back, do tell us. Have a Merry Christmas to you and your family. I keep true to my word haven't I brother? hahaha.

MERRY CHRISTMAS to everyone!

Love,
Alvin

Tuesday, December 16, 2008

Road Trip part 1; Food Safari

Christmas break has finally arrive and its now time for that Christmas shopping spree with all that out of the blue road trips.

Speaking of which, last Sunday while my sister made a lovely afternoon snack. Burger bacon in creamy mushroom and peas, with German franks and a bread, along side a cold jasmine tea.

Perfect for me since I woke up at around 2:30 that day so I already skipped breakfast and lunch. While I was busy munching on that, my Grandma wanted to go out and simply "hang out" as they say, so we did. We wanted a place where dinner can be relaxing and great.

We went to Gateway mall and meet up with my Auntie Myrna and her daughter.
I chose Burgoo as the perfect place for the night since they do serve exquisite American style cuisines, and of course the scenery in that place is perfect. Just right outside, you can see a Christmas tree as tall as a two storey building.

I really love the Christmas holiday, it gives you that certain feeling of joy and the people around you shows the same aura.
Here are some of the photo ops we had before and after dinner

I apologize for the poor layout of the pictures. I really am in a hurry right now. So, back to the topic. First we ordered Spicy mushroom and fries then Shrimp Fettuccine
Each plate has 2-3 servings so it's quite plenty for a group of four (but not for us) After which, we ordered Cheesy Baked Zitti (I think) and A family size Burgoo specialty Pizza.
The pizza has 8 big slices but we only ate 3 since we are already full. I should have known better. Oh yeah, I ordered a fresh kiwi shake and it was extravagant(funny, using such word for just 1 drink?)

P.S

Stay posted for my next road trips and more photo ops. Christmas is soon to arrive! have a great week ahead of you!

Alvin

Saturday, December 13, 2008

Christmas Break; Applause for J.C

Wooohooo! Its my Christmas break! Time to relax and enjoy this season! I am quite happy since things are finally falling into their rightful place. I am so happy that I invited a bunch of my friends to eat at Oakwood tomorrow (or the next day).

Speaking of that delightful place, I found some pictures of that place this morning while I was browsing my laptop and securing my schedule for this month (and man, I am loaded!)
The place as a whole is remarkable. The ambiance is great and comfort is the very first thing you'll love about this place.
You will also love the way they serve the food. Its fast and they always add a dramatic effect through the way it was designed and from the way it was served. A true fine-dining experience.


The taste was exquisite in a way and the amount was just right.



I spend wisely when it comes to leisure and stuffs that I want or need but when it boils down to food, I can spend a hefty amount of a price. (and from my past entries, I think it's already obvious)

I can easily fall in love when food is the topic and in this season where calories is not a matter to be discussed, I think love is definitely in the air.


Though one must eat healthy and wisely, you should also consider what you want for this season. besides, what you want is what really matters in this time of the year. So go out there and find your peace/love or whatever it is that you want. (I think that's a bit far fetched)


Now, back to the topic. I think I did enjoy the dessert although it only took me 4 scoops and poof, it was gone. I think they made it look too good that they have forgotten to add another scoop of ice cream.
But just like what they said, an ice cream and a Mocha Blend tea isn't much of a combination
O well, time for me to go. But before so, Congratulations to J.C Tiuseco for being the first Pinoy Sole Survivor of the great Survivor Philippines Season 1. I think Charles was the happiest and the reasons are still unknown. So many questions to ask but I guess there's the right time for that. Cant wait for the upcoming Christmas parties I'll be attending.
P.S
Since I am struggling for the right cuisines to cook for all those events (what? am I a cook or am I just to great?) I'll be leaving for now. Hope to see you guys soon!
Thank you Jewel! I miss you too.
Chris, I think we should re-calculate and re-estimate everything. Have a great weekend!
Alvin

Sunday, December 07, 2008

My Stress Relieving Idea

I really am sad for the fact that my feasibility work was rejected by my professor. I have been doing that nonstop for the past 2 months and here I am, telling you my misfortune. I feel bad for what happened but I feel bad even more for my group mates since I really got close to them and this is where our ideas took us.

I remember the time when I am stressed and the only thing that could get me moving and smile again are, well, chocolates. I miss my Fidani chocolates. Klaire use to have these chocolates and she would always ask me if I like them and that's when I started loving it.


Ooooh, I want one of those last night since I am so sad. And to my surprise Janna gave me a whole bunch of those. Her reason? She doesn't want them and I might as well take it.



P.S


I do hope my stress goes away for good, I want my life back.


Alvin

Monday, December 01, 2008

Post Thanksgiving Entry

Okay, so it was thanksgiving last Friday and I wasn't completely aware of that. My friends wanted to go out for the night and the reason was, well, it was thanksgiving. But rather than eating turkey on our table and saying long graces before the meal, we went somewhere far more conducive for bonding (and to use the word conducive, it must mean something)


So we went to Oakwood for dinner and to our surprise, they were serving chocolate desserts for about 25 different kinds. I got to admit that I was born with a sweet tooth but with regards to my friends, well, I was the different one. They don't like sweets that much unlike I do but among other stuffs, we do get along very well (but this time it means war!)


Since they are my friends, they already know that trying to lecture me wont get them nowhere. So I did enjoy the rest of the thanksgiving.


There were chocolate truffles, white chocolates and my favorite bitter sweet dark chocolate in whisky was there. There were also chocolate cookies, brownies, cherry oh chocolate (well that was the name). I remembered Chris eating the chocolate temptation and it was, for me the second most delightful of all (after my bitter sweet dark choco in whisky)


And of course, chocolate fountain is present for this one time event. I did enjoy dipping over and over again but never actually able to eat one (since I got full with the other 24 desserts)



Ooooh, I have a glutton for delicious food and it's really hard to say no when it comes down to this.
I so love my friends, they take me to places I never thought I could come (well, not right now but I certainly have)
So I guess I'm a bit sleepy now, and I'm done reminiscing with my thanksgiving getaway. I think I'm going to be busy this week for my feasibility work (I wonder when will this end?)
Tempting? Go get one for yourself. Its a season to be sinfully delighted anyway.
P.S
Again thanks to my friends (Chris, Klauie, June, Charles, J.C, Cheryl, Cla, Jan and all others)
Cant wait for my Christmas break!
Alvin