A real camp out at REAL Quezon

Impromptu days like these. :)
My sister and her boyfriend decided to have a campout at real quezon. They've done it before but this time they're bringing me and my brother too.

Real quezon. I don't really know much about the place but I was dead set to go on this adventure. It's my first time camping out. Literally.

I can barely remember how we got there but if memory serves me right, we took a bus going to quezon somewhere in manila. The ride took a few hours (I think 6 or 7hrs to say the least). I just remember worrying about needing to go to the bathroom and how hot the weather was back then throughout the whole ride. Anyone who plans to make the trip should carry a powerbank with them just so that you dont run out of battery along the way. i remember employing my best efforts to conserve mine since I didnt have one back then. I ended up turning my phone off which gave me the option to just either look out the window or sleep.

Arriving at a port, we had to ride a smaller vehicle to get to the place where we got dropped off. It wasnt pricey at most php500 should get you there with a lot of spare change atleast a hundred pesos or so to boot.

The place is literally a camp site. You have either the option to rent a tent or a cottage (which basically consists only of a roofed table) for the duration of your stay. We decided to take only 1 of each. (1 tent, 1 cottage). I've already made up my mind to sleep on the cottage so that I can enjoy the evening breeze from the shore. I usually sweat like crazy so no one had qualms about this.

The site is located next to the beach. It had a communal bathroom for people to do their bussiness and lucky for us it was a long weekend that week but we arrived on a sunday just when most people were about to head back so there were fewer people left that stayed that night.

We went for a swim that afternoon an hour after we came and had lunch. We had our infinity adobo and some hotdogs which are a staple. The water felt good. You have the option to stay in spots where it was warm while I preferred the cool spots that you can look for. We decided to rent a paddleboard a few hours after that. My achie seemed to really be into that sport as she enthusiastically taught us. I had a hard time at first and was not really into it since it left me to the mercy of the hot sun. But otherwise it was fun and maybe on a cloudy day, I'd get really into it.

The night was a little troubling for me but only because it was a first. No aircon, no comfy beds. Not even a fan. We were constantly plagued by mosquitoes to boot. We seriously had to light a "katol" a mosquito repellent like incense just to keep them at bay but I swear those barely did the trick. I also had to wait for people to fall asleep before I could do my bussiness in the bathroom. It was a unique experience to say the least. I definitely learned from that one.

The next day, achie and her boyfriend to us to this mini waterfall area which became the highlight of our trip. Although it was small, it was quite beautiful and I felt really refreshed afterwards. The water was murky but definitely cold and best of all we had the place to ourselves for a good hour. Ahia even went up towards the second base to take pictures. It was scary and I doubted my climbing skills so I didnt follow. I dont regret it but I somehow wish I did just to prove myself I can.

That afternoon as we were heading back to leave. Ahia accidentally left our bag which held all our gadgets on the tricycle that took us to and fro to the falls. He had this wild look on his face as he madly dashed to catch up on the driver. It delayed our trip but it was fun to watch ahia lose his cool for the first time. Apparently he had a lot more to lose than I did. I only wouldve lost my phone, he on the otherhand his wallet, id's, atm, phone and more (basically his life) was in there. We were able to retrieve it naman after an hour or so of running. From the tricycle station, to another bayan, to the drivers home, then back to our campsite. Only ahia did it though. Poor him but we definitely had a good laugh about it in the end.

One thing really memorable though was that it  rained hard that afternoon with a few thunderclaps here and there. Achie's bf gave us the instruction to turn our gadgets off as it attracted lightning daw. I personally refused to acknowledge that belief but still followed suit as they turned theirs off. I'm thankful I did because not a few moments later a nearby tent was hit with lightning and a loud bang resounded with it. I swear til this day. Whenever it starts to rain and I hear thunder. I make sure not to test faith and would immediately switch my phone off and then go hide in a well roofed area.

Finishing the trip. We decided to eat off in this wet market dampa place that was famous in blogs that we read. We only took 2 viands. One adobong pusit, the other being prawns bathed in chili. The adobong pusit was a sure fire hit. Definitely willing to go back there just to sample that dish again. It was magic. It was then that I couldn't help but believe that despite the mishaps during the trip, we still were very lucky. Why? We were late but thanks to that we avoided the rush hour and had the place mostly to ourselves, we almost lost our valuables but we were able to retrieve all of them, and lastly, the moment the head cook finished preparing our meals. He left to attend other things so subsequent customers wont be sampling dishes from him but from another cook. So we technically were the last customers to sample his famous dishes. Super lucky di ba? What a way to end a trip. :)

The WHERE: Surviving Caramoan!

Its been way too long since I've last updated this blog. I have been, for the past few months stacking up on my adventures. Here I am to share a few of them.

A lot of things can be said about Caramoan. Being the ideal spot for adventure, it has hosted a few seasons of the popular international show "Survivor".

With untamed waters surrounding fascinating islands, some bearing distinct features making it a perfect island getaway.

My family was lucky enough to have booked a spot during the off seasons, so there were no television companies, save a few bigwigs at the time, surveying the area. They said a new survivor series would start filming the upcoming month.

We stayed there for a few days (3 to be exact). Each day was spent fruitfully, bonding and exploring the place. Now, although there are a lot of resorts in the area, only one of them hosted the actual beach where filming occurs. Lucky for us, we were able rent that place.

The rumors I've been hearing about the Caramoan is real. The place is simply magnificent. To start off, as I've mentioned we stayed in the actual beach resort that survivor rents. The place is called Gota Village which looks like a village of mini wooden houses. Each crafted beautifully and complimented the tropical vibe of the area. We rented three houses/cottages. Each cottage had a total of 2 rooms (1 room with 2 beds, a common room with a bed which doubles as the living, and a bathroom). A family of 7 or more can probably fit into each since the place is really spacey, not to mention the couches are sooo big and comfortable, one might forget there are beds in place. What I liked about it is that other than the ample space and the beautiful earthy vibe, the rooms are equipped with powerful air-conditioning, which I say is a major plus since its a welcome sanctuary from the scorching heat of the outside. The bathrooms are beautiful too. With a glass shower and the bidet for the toilet. I was really impressed. It was Fontana except made of wood. I give it a 10/10.

We ate buffet breakfast, lunch and dinners during our stay. I frankly cannot remember anything special about the food. I guess it goes to show that people really do go there for the scenery. That might be a bit disappointing for some but for me it wasn't so bad. Staff wise, they are really flexible and accommodating. The place was still being renovated that time. They were making improvements, adding a bar for future visitors and I guess esp for foreigners doing business. What irked me though was they had these menu posted but you couldn't make an order for anything unless you're part of the bigwig group from survivor. I think they were focusing on pleasing them so locals or anyone not part of that entourage were excluded from this treatment. Considering we are still paying customers, although I understood their point of view. It still put me a bit off.

Our first day was spent as a day on rest and relaxation. No big activities as we have just arrived. Surveying the area. It looked really nice. The beach had fine sand. No form of trash visible anywhere. Plus one major perk was that the resort itself had its own beach. Sheltered between 2 ragged edges of the mountain surrounding the cove. It looked like a private beach haven. During that time though, a storm was about to come thru so the waves were a bit strong for those who swam.

During the second day, we started on our planned activity which was hiking. Personally, I've always fancied myself as an athletic person. Although I admittedly have gained a few pounds from the past years, I still think I'm up for any sporty event. I was dead wrong. What didn't prepare me for the hike was that the trail itself was difficult. They failed to inform me that we were hiking to one of the viewing decks so to speak. The path was still a little unmade and slick from the evening rain which made climbing so hard. I get that, as much as possible they tried to keep the authenticity of the experience by not changing or altering the terrain so much but really, come on! that hike was risky. The rocks are so sharp and jagged. I wasn't even halfway done when started regretting coming up. I'm not being a baby here I swear. At one point, I abandoned all pretenses and went barefoot even if there were alot of sharp rocks on the way. It was that difficult. I feared my shoes wouldn't make it. Besides it was hard enough to keep my balance on that slick road so I had to do what I had to do to finish it and survive. There was also a time that I had to grip a thorny vine bare handed as there was no option left lest I fall if I don't. Seriously.

Now the view on the top though. Wow! Superb! just spectacular. It made the climb all worth it. You could clearly see the village from below as well as the whole islands from afar. I think I got a taste of survivor from all that. The rest of the day was spent swimming after that. No other activities since I think everyone felt pooped after all that climbing.

On the third day, it was our last for that adventure so we decided to go island hopping. We road these rented long boats. All of which colorful and authentic looking, manned by captain/tour guide who were so kind as to explain to us each island where we visited. I can't remember most of them. I think at most we visited 3. Frankly, because of the still oncoming storm which was predicted to hit that day and mostly also because we all shared the same opinion that you'll just see the same sand and beach anyway. A few notable islands though included the starfish island which we weren't able to visit. I heard that it is really beautiful there. Colorful and abundant with starfish of varying types and sizes. Another is the mythical Bangus (milkfish) island. That island had this mini valley located high inside its hill like formation and within its mini lake there is this giant bangus which was supposed to be magical. Legend has it that it that its been alive for hundreds of years already although there is no way of knowing how it gets its sustenance considering its locked away high up that island. Also it is said that there used to be two fishes but one was caught by a fisherman who later met some bad luck attributed to him taking the fish. I didn't climb that one as I can't handle having to climb that terrain which clearly required me to once again grab and step on sharp rocks. Later that night after sipping a few cold ones with the adults and chilling by this bonfire, we sealed the night.

All in all I clearly understand why Caramoan has kept its charm especially to those looking for an adventure. The place is awesome. With a multitude of islands to explore, Activities to try (too extreme for my family), one will never have a boring time. Whether its to relax or recreate, everyone is bound to find something to love in the place. Just make sure to book it during survivor off seasons, so you can maximize the island hopping experience.

Over the phone epiphany..

I had an epiphany.

Talking with my sister abroad, I came to the realization of who I think I am and who I think I want to be. And it starts with this.

Distance no matter how we feign it, changes us as individuals, as persons in the relationships that we have. We try to ignore it. We put it in the back of our minds, saying it wont happen. Things will always be the same, stay the same. Trusting that we've known each other forever but alas, it wont. Little by little, barely noticeable at first but it happens. What once was so easy, gets a little difficult to do.

I felt it happen to us. To me and my family. I didn't acknowledge it at first. I admit that the person that I am, when the going gets tough, I retreat, I disconnect. I put up walls around me.  For as long as my determination wills it, my wall stands. The strongest, unbreakable. But what am I really getting at here? Well like I've said I noticed this before but never really thought anything of it. This discomfort that I had when talking with my family. I don't know why but looking back I attributed it to the distance, to the experience of not seeing each other on a daily basis, of not being able interact as often as we used to.

But therein lies the conflict, come on its family. It should be easy as pie. Talking with my little sister opened my eyes. It used to be that I could tell her everything. I'd even get/give hugs. We'd talk about the shit in our lives, our darkest secrets and fears and laugh about it. We didn't have the perfect brother and sister relationship but the respect was there. I really valued that. Only yesterday on the phone with her, I found myself filtering things. Words, feelings. I don't know why but I could tell there was barrier between us. An alienation of some sort. And it was there, clear as day. I recognized the sensation of me shielding myself happening. There was no conflict, no argument of some sort that should've triggered me to do so but it was there. I could feel it on her end as well. And now looking back it was the same with the others, with mom, dad, and my other sister. It frustrates me. That mild discomfort shouldn't even be there in the first place. But why did it exist for no reason?

I have seen this happen before often with people who I haven't spoken to for long periods of time. and when I do, I get this internal conflict to reach out and maybe reconnect with them again in that same level but also often I pull back. Vulnerability scares the shit out of me. I don't like appearing weak even in front of others. Its automatic, I should be strong. I'm always OK. I leave things the way they are. Unspoken.

Saying I love you shouldn't be as awkward or difficult especially with family.

With these feelings I was able to reflect on things, and I came up with this. I guess on the bottom of it all. I'm just afraid of being judged and rejected. Of people seeing something in me that they wont like, something not right. So I conform to the traditional. I'll show you that I am strong. That regardless of who, where and when, I can stand on my own. I think at some point most people are like this. We just fail to admit it. We're scared to show how fucked up we really are on the inside because we know there's hell to pay for it. Losing in the form of our love ones seeing us in a different light, thinking they might love and respect us a little less afterwards, I think that is the reason for this. And I guess that's OK. I really do understand things now. But unlike before, I intend to do something about it.

I guess it'll always be a question of how much do you want it?

What are you willing to forsake to get things back?.

The person who wrote of pride being the biggest sin was definitely right in doing so. Cause ultimately it stops us from doing the things we should do. So I say fuck it. Next time, I'll throw caution to the wind. I wont be afraid to feel anymore, wont be afraid to express. I will say what I wanna say. Especially to the people that matter to me. Because frankly, life wont wait. Every second I dedicate to being selfish, thinking about myself is a second lost forever. So next time, I'll reach out, be naked (metaphorically speaking that is) because now is the only thing that matters. Leave tomorrow to tomorrow. Because what are we but fleeting moments right? Once gone, there's no turning back. So I wanna spend all those precious moments, making mistakes, learning from them, dedicating them to letting the ones I care for know how much I love them and how important they are to me. Because what is being naked if in return they realize these things and we can move on to whats really essential. Making memories that last. Making the days count. Being happy. I wanna seize the day. Because nothing lasts forever. I have to make every moment count. :)

I think I got a little lost there. ;) Essentially I just wanna be true to myself and to what I wanna say. I wanna bridge this invisible distance with my family and those that I love. To heck with being vulnerable. If that's what it takes to make the people I love understand then that's what I'll do. Cause I want my life to mean something. I get it now. I can't be selfish. This is what it means to live for others.

The WHY: Social Responsibility

I was on my way to riverbanks because my tita asked me a favor. She wanted me to buy ingredients for her tinolang manok to be served for dinner this evening. Being a dutiful pamangkin, I did as I was told. 

I was on the chicken stand to buy chicken (ofcourse) and approaching it, I saw the one in charge (yung nagseserve) wiping the area clean. I was literally infront of it looking for thigh parts and then looking over at her for assistance. See here, magisa lang siya na nakatayo dun and well I think I'm huge enough that you'd notice me an obvious potential buyer spying your goods. Ofcourse I'd expect you to help me (saan ko ba naman ilalagay yung mga parte na napili ko? and nasa side niya yung pangkilo to get the price so does she expect me to go over the counter and do it myself?). She continued to ignore me kahit na ba tapos na siyang mag-wipe ng counter. So I called her attention and asked for what I needed. Sabi ko "ate asan yung thigh part kailangan ko ng tatlo?" In which she retorted while handing me a plastic bag "ayan, pumili ka na" while pointing with her mouth on an area somewhere on that counter top. Eh hindi naman ako bio sa premed ko so what the hell do i know with avian parts so I went with my instinct and asked "eto po ba?" While gesturing on some chicken parts. She looked at me and while cocking an eyebrow said "No. Yung kabila". As I was to gesture on another part of the counter she looked over and said with an annoyed look ah."Quarter yan. Yung katabi niyan yung thigh part"

Honestly, I was irked but said nothing. She was a lady and maybe she was having a bad day. And frankly, hindi ako yung palaban na tao. I choose my fights and I am usually a gentleman. My classmates and friends can attest to that. Hindi ako yung tipo na aggresive at palasagot unless I'm pushed to my limits. To tell you the truth, I'm socially awkward. I would always be guarded, afraid I'm being judged by others or worse laughed at or hated. I aim to please too much (even strangers) that it sickens me. I'm a teamplayer. Mababa kasi self esteem ko. I don't think I'm ever good enough so I always conform so that everybody likes me in general. The worst part of it is that I'm painfully aware of it. And I've learned to admit that to myself and to others. Your weakness is only a weakness unless you do something about it and make it your strength. 

So unlike before where I would usually just hide myself and avoid confrontations, this time I chose to do the opposite. I planned and will be doing something about it from now on. We'll get to that part later.

Back to my story, so alam ko na ngayon kung alin yung thigh parts di ba. I was trying to choose some. Eh ofcourse as a mamimili, you wanna get your money's worth right? (Hindi naman pinupulot yung pera di ba?) and believe me what I asked for next is totally not to get revenge or anything. (Ok. Maybe a little.) Since she was just standing there, I was just. Well I wanted her to do her job and help me get the big parts so I asked her "ate, pwedeng ikaw na pumili? Yung malaki sana at medyo bago pa" I swear I asked politely ha pero the look she gave me was one of condescension. As in she took atleast 20seconds or so contemplating kung tutulungan ba niya ako or what. A coworker of hers seeing her reluctance (siguro) offered she'd assist me instead while they were both just a few steps (take note. STEPS talaga. As in one, two. Nasa harap ko lang sila). She (yung tamad na nagbebenta) carelessly took the supot from me and gave it (nonchalantly, medyo pagalit pa nga) kay coworker na nagalok ng tulong then turned her back and took 2 steps back to her spot (doing nothing uli) without a word of thanks (to her coworker). She even said "sige tulungan mo nga siya" ng pabalang.

 

The nice coworker helped me and basically did her job well so I thanked her for it. I turned my back and was about to leave to pay for the stuff I took. Pero my conscience was nagging at me. I mean usually I'd let her (si tamad) off the hook kasi nga I try to give her or anyone the benefit of the doubt and hindi nga ako nagreretaliate. In my head I felt like a pussy or a pushover. And I began to think, I've been doing that all my life. Being a pushover. Choosing to turn the other cheek instead. Basically being weak. And I'm really tired of it. Sobrang nakakapagod magkeep-up to what I think others expect me to be (which is basically be the good guy). Well I'm not. I get bad thoughts too. It's just that I choose not to do bad things (most of the time anyways). And I felt at that moment that I'm allowed to get angry or something. I mean. Wala naman akong ginawa para tratuhin niya ako ng ganun. I was being a completely good customer and I've worked in customer service business before to know what etiquette one should have despite whatever they feel or are experiencing. Plus it annoyed me that she might have been showing the exact treatment to others which is just plain wrong. 

Oo. Aaminin ko. Wala ako sa posisyon na mangaral ng ibang tao about how they do their job or life in short pero at that moment I really felt wronged and I know I would feel worse about it if I just let it go. So kahit ba malayo na ako dun sa chicken stand (actually palabas nako ng riverbanks nun) I took a complete 360 and went back inside the supermarket. Nanlalamig yung kamay ko (which always happens whenever I do something which I normally wouldn't do) and I even contemplated on just talking to the co-worker and asking her to relay my message instead but No, I thought to myself for sure hindi maiintindihan ni ate yung mali unless sakin mismo mang-gagaling and I really wanted to get my point across and give her a piece of my mind. Like they say, if you want something done to your satisfaction, you have to do it yourself right?. 

So I approached her and told her this (in a polite but "seriously listen to me" manner) (word per word ito) "ate next time wag kang tatamad tamad pls. I don't know if your having a bad day or what pero pls lang wag mo dalhin sa trabaho mo. I was being a good customer di ba? Pero ano yung ginawa mo? Tinatamad ka ba dahil hindi ako nakabihis mayaman or what? Simple lang yung hiningi ko at trabaho mo naman yun kaya gawin mo. Next time I won't hesitate to talk to your supervisor or kung sino man yung may ari ng mall and I don't care if I get you fired because frankly you deserve it. Buti pa yung coworker mo, yun yung tularan mo. Ok?" And with a smile on my face. I turned and left. 

Honestly my hands were dead cold and shaking by then but I didn't let any of that show. I calmly left the building. Her stunned expression was already enough for me. So I didn't wait for a reply because I didn't need it. Suffice to say that I wasn't loud but I was sure her coworkers and some shoppers did overhear what I said but I couldn't care less. I know it was mean. But I don't regret it. People taught me esp sa bioethics class na you don't shame anyone in public but I say otherwise, especially if they had it coming. She was being a bully and although most people would say na intindihin nalang siya or sila. I won't. Not this time atleast. Ayoko ng namimihasa eh. Punishment is sometimes necessary. That much I learned from my parents. No wonder we grew up (my siblings and I) as behaved children. Hindi spoiled or whatever. We knew our place and we never overstep that boundary. So I think it was just right that I put her in her place. Besides, I did it nicely pa nga. i could've caused a scene or whatever pero I did it as civilized as I could. 

Also some may argue na mali yun. Na babae siya, na mas matanda siya sakin and whatever self-righteous excuse they can think of but on my end, I'm not gonna let anyone play that card anymore. Hindi mo pwede gamitin yung pagkababae mo or yung old age or kung anong rason mo to do shit like that and expect  to get away with it. Like sa LRT, yung mga hindi pumipila at sisingit nalang pag andyan na yung tren. God that pisses me off big time. In the end of it all were all human, lahat tayo pantay pantay sa mata ng Diyos and haven't people (women, old people, physically challenged individuals, people of foreign color, beliefs and gender) been fighting for equality all along?. So don't ever give me the bull that porket ganyan kayo you can get away with it. Maiintindihan ko pa kung masyado pa kayong bata eh kasi atleast pag ganun hindi pa kayo fully developed psychosocially to understand things pero really she was old enough to know that what she was doing is wrong. And I am old enough to know that what I did was right. So there.

I didn't do it perfectly. But I know I did it in the best way I can and could've and I am proud of myself for that. 

People grow old. But that doesn't mean they mature when they do. 

The WHERE: Chevy Burgers

 Me and my brother decided to head of to Marikina to go back to Boyong's hoping to sample their "pesto" spaghetti this time. It was post typhoon glenda-day and we were feeling glum and hungry from waiting for power to come back (there was virtually no electricity since that morning).

Arriving at Boyong's, we were a little disappointed to find it closed for the day, (although we already figured that it could be a possibility before going there) we just didn't want to believe it but it was. So we decided to walk back feeling a little defeated. On our way though we happened to pass by Chevy Burgers which we've already seen before but never really tried. I personally have never heard of the place and was reluctant to try it since I usu. go for those that have been recommended or have good reviews online. But since there was no harm in trying, we were really hungry and we've already traveled, we went ahead and ate. 

It's a small place located a little past Boyong's where E. De la paz intersects with other streets. The place was packed and could only hold as much as six groups or less with the amount of chairs and tables that they have. Thankfully, when we came, a few people were already done with their meals so we didn't have to wait for long to get our seats.
 

The menu has 3 categories (burgers, sandwiches, and pasta). We decided to try to diversify our choices as much as possible to maximize the experience but upon learning that they were limited since they suffered from the outage as well, we went with what they had and ordered the ff: 1 chick and burger, 1 chicken sandwich, 1 messy melt, 1 very spaghetti and 2 iced tea's.

Frankly, I wasn't really expecting much from their cuisine since a) I've never read about it and b) I was really looking forward to eating at Boyong's. To my surprise though, I found most of their food delicious. It may seem a little more pricey than the usual but I think depending on what you order, it'll surely be worth it.

Let's start with the negatives. Upon receiving their pasta, I dug in. I found it just satisfactory to my tastebuds. It was good and that's just it. I could have done without it though and for the price of php95, i think it's a little too steep, i think jolibee would have been better choice but my brother reasoned out that apparently, they used legit ingredients in making it such as using tomato paste or something instead of cheap ingredients like ketchup. If thats the case then its fine but not something I'd order again in the future since I just didn't enjoy it. The taste was normal, just how I'd expect spaghetti to be but incase you think otherwise pls comment below.

Next onto the goodstuff, I tried their chick and burger next and basically what it is, is a burger made of chicken spread, lettuce, tomato, and a homemade patty. I haven't really jumped into the whole "homemade" patty thing since I don't really like the way they usually taste but I'm really starting to reconsider that now after eating here. They place a generous amount of toppings onto your burger and  each of those are really fresh and tasty. Also I noticed that they opened really late at 3pm and that must be the reason why their ingredients are so fresh since they are only prepared in the morning. Hence, they're cleaner, crispier and less likely contaminated.

Next is the chicken sandwhich, which I shouldn't have really ordered because basically it was the chick and burger minus the burger patty plus some cucumber. Although it in itself is a really delicious treat and would be a good substitute for those wanting to keep things light. I was able to appreciate the chicken spread they used in making those sandwiches more when I ate it. Which had just the right balance of chicken meat, mayo, cheese and whatever else is in there (since im not really sure but I tasted a hint of pineapple i think). The toast was made just right, the ingredients were fresh and plenty. What more could any guy ask for right?

Tried the messy melt next which my brother seemed to really enjoy as he was already singing praises about it as he ate his share. It consists of a bun filled with a burger patty, mushrooms, bacon, some lettuce, melted cheese and some kind of spread although im not really sure what kind. It was also good for the price and like the name suggest the cheese is quite messy but overall the dish is delicious. Each ingredient working in harmony to give the best taste possible.

Lastly, I'd like to take note of how well made their iced tea is. It's not any flavor I've ever encountered before (and trust me, I love drinking that) I could not guess the particular brand for sure so I bet its something they cooked up being established way back in 1988.

All in all the experience was surprisingly great. I totally don't feel bad on not being able to eat at the other place from before. And I'm really glad I gave this place a chance. The prices may be a little high but the food is good and being able to cater to customers post typhoon is just really noble and outstanding. 9/10. :)  

PS All photos are legit. Credits belong to me and my brother. Copyrights apply.

The WHO: Saoirse Ronan

There is something in the way this doe eyed lady acts that moves and captivates her audience.

She is like Dakota Fanning (in my opinion) when it comes to her skill in the craft. I have only watched a few of her movies and in each she never fails to deliver her characters well. At the tender age of 20, she has already received atleast 2 oscar nominations and a handful number of awards from various institutions gaining the title of an "Acting sorceress" as described by one of her critics.

I really love the way she expresses her emotions. Even with her eyes alone, her tone of voice and actions, she can deliver. And when she delivers, she delivers all emotions so powerfully. Whether it be joy, anger, sorrow you name it. She can give it to you raw and have you begging for more.

Personally, I have only watched the ff. films and I think she always shines in each. Do check them out and see for yourself.

*The Lovely Bones 

- she plays the victim and she plays it beautifully. I think this might've been her breakout role. Her initial fear, then despair and anger came clearly thru even in scenes where she barely speaks at all. 

*Hannah

- I barely remember this movie but I do remember feeling very impressed that she can be such a versatile actress at such a young age then. She plays an assassin in the film and her acting roles shows how much potential she can be and what a force to be reckoned with she is in the acting world. She played the role really well even the fight scenes which were a lot.

*The Host

- playing dual characters can be so difficult but she manages to do that and even convices the audience that she is two persons in one body. While the story may not seem all brilliant, she was able to give color into it and I believe no other person could have done the same. Halfway within the movie, you forget she is just one actress portraying two roles because she plays it so well. The internal struggle between two persons in one body is soo palpable and real, you'd most likely believe its happening. 

*How I Live Now

- I haven't really watched the movie but it was from the trailer I watched of this one that convinced me to write about her. I just can't believe that she still isn't out there enough. I mean she's a talent goldmine capable of handling virtually any role you throw at her. Her versatility in itself (not to mention she's easy on the eyes too) should have been enough to land her any role she could ever want. It just seems to me that she may be underrated and I feel bad for the wasted talent. I hope I see her more in the future. I can tell she has soo much more to offer and she will definitely grow more (although she's already so wicked good) in acting.

Looking at her photo. I never realized she was so beautiful. I feel a crush coming on.

PS other than that, I'm hoping to watch the ff. too; Death defying acts, Violet and Daisy, City of Ember, Byzantium and Atonement.

PPS Most of these photos are from the internet. Copyright rules apply.

The WHAT: FM's TAYC "Kiwi Ice cream"

So I talked about my family mart ice cream experience with their raspberry flavor back in june. Now I'm back for their Kiwi flavor which I vowed I'd try. 

It was post gym day (naks) where I usually tend to be hungrier than usual. On my home, I passed by our usual kanto and after eating some innards (atleast 4 sticks) and 2 toknenengs (eggs wrapped in flour) I still felt hungry. But this time, it was for dessert. 

Remembering how (badly) I wanted to try the Kiwi flavor back then. I rode a jeep straight to UP town center.

After buying and consuming the Kiwi flavored treat, this is what I have to say. It was delicious. Everything that I was looking for in flavor (that the raspberry lacked), I found in Kiwi. The taste is really hard to describe and I'm sure I'll forget about it in the future but to put it in perspective, it has a fruity taste. Not too sweet and it had the sourness in it which I really liked. The flavor is something like candy to me and I really really liked it. Its still milk based but you barely notice it. And most of all, you can tell it was made with quality ingredients and not all sugar. I even finished the cone which I don't usually do, just cause there was some ice cream on it.

Delicioso

I just wish there were more Family Mart shops built around the metro and more specifically here along katipunan because I don't like that I have to ride a jeep or take long strolls before I get my ice cream fix. It's so taxing but on the otherhand, the ice cream is worth it anyway and I get to lose the extra calories I just ate when I get it, so yeah I'm kind of ambivalent about the whole thing. haha

I will definitely buy me some more in the future. Try it out for yourself (While the flavor is still available) and tell me what you think. :))