Monday, February 14

The week that was (February 5 - 12)

Sunday: I got up at almost 6:00am. I went online but for a short period of time since I need to do some laundry as well as some errands. For some reason, I felt sleepy even before 12:00pm but when I hit the bed, it was completely gone. At 5:00pm, I went online again just to make myself sleepy again before hitting the bed at 6:00pm. After 2 hours, I haven't got any sleep so I just prepared myself going to work after being away for 5 days. Good thing I wasn't stuck in traffic so I got there just on time. Good thing my colleague will be reporting on Tuesday after being away for two weeks for personal reasons. 

Monday: Work was quite OK as I was able to answer 2 emails (one of which I have to escalate it to the on-call tech in the US). Then I was able to update my planners a little and download some tech documents from HP for learning purposes. Then after my shift, I had to go to Mc Donalds to buy 2 Sausage Mc Muffin with Egg before going to Harisson Plaza to meet my mom there. She handed me the things I need as well as we bought my vitamins for my eyes before finally heading home. My wife was still sleeping when I got home. I opened our laptop and watched the video on how post-processing can be done by Mr Jo Avila. Then I went online for a few more minutes before my wife was ready for work. After taking my wife to the LRT, I went online for a few more minutes before going to bed. I haven't noticed that I slept for 8 hours straight and I felt really energized for my shift. 

Tuesday: Work was quite steady with 3 calls I got during the shift. I was also able to make some outbound calls for follow-up while updating my blog as well as other online stuff XD. Though there were still distractions, I was able to achieve what I need. After shift, I had to go to Watson's to buy something before buying breakfast at the The Enterprise Center. Its been almost 6 months since I had even lunch there and there were a few people when I bought my snack. Going home didn't take that long even if it was traffic.I got home at around 9:00am and my wife was still sleeping. I went online again and watched some PP videos before heading to bed at 12:00pm. I was able to get 7 hours of sleep before going to work. I was a bit surprised since taking the Crossing-Ayala route didn't even took me an hour to cover that distance.

Wednesday: Work was quite steady though I've been getting a lot of email requests for account creation among others. Up to now, my fellow colleague hasn't returned yet. I hope he could recover emotionally from the loss he encountered. My mind was pretty much preoccupied with a lot of things lately I forgot to put it in draft. I got one more call that took me a while before I realized I have to escalate it but good thing the caller could wait until the next day. I stayed in the office for a couple more minutes before leaving the office at almost 8:00am. Good thing traffic isn't that horrible as I was able to reach Crossing in Shaw Ave in less than an hour. I stopped by at Tropical Hut to get some clubhouse sandwich to go for me to eat while on my way home. I got home at 9:15am and opened my laptop while my wife was still sleeping. I went online to do some blog hopping again and tried to check my own blog. By 11:45am I was already in bed and my wife was already in the office. I got up at 3:30pm feeling the heat. Heat due to weather probably as it gets warmer and warmer. By 7:30pm, my wife woke me up from bed since she got home early. I took the Crossing-Ayala route and got to the office early again.

Thursday: I got swamped with work but I was able to take care most of those. I had more calls probably than email or the other way around XD. Anyways, I got 8 calls (7 were my calls actually) plus a few emails before my shift ended earlier. Then my TL asked me to comment about the status of my colleague whom until now, hasn't reported yet. I told him to give him more time since he has to grieve from the loss of  his wife. I left the office at 7:30am and took the bus to Crossing. Once I got there, I had to walk to the other direction to look for the nearest BDO ATM (which I failed) and at the same time, head to Rufo's for my tapsilog cravings. I was able to savor my breakfast before finally going home.Then I got to go online for a few more hours before going to bed (after taking my wife to the LRT for work of course). I was able to get a solid 7-hour sleep that helped me for my shift. For the second straight night, my wife got home early even before I took a bath. I took the Crossing-Ayala route going to the office and I got there early.

Friday: Work was more abundant as I had 5 calls while the US team was on lunch. Then, I went to Robinson' Manila to kill time and look for some things I need. I passed by Serenitea out of curiosity since I've read in a blog that their milk tea tastes good. And Indeed it tastes good, probably I'll write about it very soon XD. Then, while strolling around the mall, I saw a promo from The Secret Recipe that I used to have before but its only available from 12:00pm to 2:00pm. I had to stop by at Power Books to make sure I'd be able to kill more time until 12:00pm. I saw this book but I kinda hesitated to buy it that instant since I know I'd be getting it by impulse. Then I went straight to The Secret Recipe to have my lunch there even if I feel a bit full after drowning myself with the milk tea from Serenitea. Then I went to National Bookstore to buy some Valentines card for my wife before finally going home. Then I was able to go online as well as edit some pictures using the basic techniques I learned from Jo Avila. I felt that Photoshop was again new to me even if I've been using it before. After being awake for 24 hours, I went to bed early to get some sleep.

Saturday: I got up at 3:45am after sleeping for almost 9 hours. That made me feel energized and refreshed as I know my day ahead will be busy XD.I went online only for a few minutes before taking a bath. Afterward, I went to BGC to claim my planner and attend the food market there at Mercato Centrale. I realized that could be habit forming so I had to leave there after getting my planner and having it signed by Mr. Anton Diaz. It took me an hour and a half to go back home only to be surprised that my wife hasn't left yet. She tagged me along and we went to her office. Once we got there, I relaxed though it would be better if I could have stayed home and slept the entire afternoon. I was able to take some snaps from their office window on the 15th floor. It was quite scary to take pictures but I was able to manage. At 6:30pm, feeling so tired and sleepy, we went home, but we had to pass by Cubao to buy a cake for my mother-in-laws' birthday. We got home probably at around 8:00pm. I missed some events for the day today but I know they would understand. Besides, I love to be with my wife right now ^_^

Saturday, February 12

My First Experience at Mercato Centrale


Mercato Centrale: Swabeh! XD


I was supposed to write something about this by tomorrow but since my wife tagged me along to her office (there goes my good sleep XD), I'll have to do this while its memories are still fresh in my mind. 

I went there to claim the "My Awesome Life Planner 2011" by Anton Diaz. I'm thinking, why not check the place as well aside from just getting the planner and going home early. It took me an hour just to get there. Some of the blogs I've read say it opens at 7:00am but as early as 6:45am, I saw some people already setting up their stalls and getting ready for their customers mostly from within the Bonifacio Global City (BGC) area.


Going In. XD

By 7:00am, they were busy serving customers, mostly early joggers within the BGC district as well as those who just finished their graveyard shift. And for those who has rest days on a Saturdays (like me XD) do usually come here too.

After taking a look at the entire place, I had to look for a good breakfast. I tried the US Beef Tapsilog (125 pesos) of Auntie Mays. The smell of the beef was flavorful but when I tried eating it, I can't seem to differentiate its taste from a local tapsilog. Probably, I should try other tapsilogs and see if there is any difference in taste (probably my tastebuds aren't that critical yet when it comes to distinguishing certains types of food).


Auntie Mays' US Beef Tapsilog


Then there comes dessert. I checked on Low Cal Cafe and tried their French Apple Torte with Creme Anglaise (125 pesos). It was heaven at first bite plus it replaces sugar with isomalt which is an al-natural sugar replacer made from sugar beets plus only the best low calorie, low fat ingredients available.It only costs a bit higher since isomalt is not as cheap as sugar that we usually use. Plus I ordered their chocolate oatmeal cookies (100 pesos for 5 pcs) to take that home for my wife.


Low Cal Cafe's French Apple Torte with Creme Anglaise


Then, I got a bit thirsty and got myself a pure sugarcane juice drink from Delicane. Its made of pure sugarcane that it nourishes the liver, lungs and stomach. I had a concern about the ice on their drink and the attendant mentioned that it was frozen sugarcane. I was so convinced at this drink, I had to buy another for the road (that cost me 75 pesos all in all) XD


Delicane's Pure Sugar Cane Juice


I got curious about the dips from Chile Vitas and the attendant mentioned that these usually replace boring sweet and chili sauces that we usually buy from supermarkets. I got their chili and cheese (164 pesos I think) to try at home.


Chile Vitas' Chili and Cheese


Then I got a little bit hungry again and I tried Resty's Roast Beef. I had mine paired with pesto pasta and marble potatoes (125 pesos). The beef was really soft and tender I didn't have a hard time eating it together with the side dish. Though I hope their gravy doesn't taste like the same as I've tried before (or it could be just me).


Resty's Roast Beef with Pesto Pasta and Marbled Potatoes


When I got thirsty again, I checked out  Teaology. Its another tea franchise similar to what I've tasted last Friday at the mall. Its concept aside from choosing the drink, you need to choose your topping as well as the sugar level of your tea (which for me it helps for those with high sugar levels). I got the Frosted Mint Chocolate Milk Tea (95 Pesos for Large) and it was refreshing because of the hint of mint in the tea. I choose the sweetness level at 50% and for me it was just right. The owner (I think) asked for my blog which I gave it to her.


Teaology's Frosted Mint Chocolate Milk Tea


As I continue going around (my planner hasn't been there yet), I checked on one of the chocolate from Theo and Philo and I got curious with their Dark Chocolate with Siling Labuyo. The sweetness of chocolate melts in my tongue but afterward, I felt the spiciness of the siling labuyo that made me sold to the product. I bought one bar (95 pesos) for my wife and I told her that's my Valentine's gift for her XD.


Theo and Philo's Dark Chocolate with Siling Labuyo


As the sun goes higher, I tried Yoh-Gee's original frozen yogurt (50 pesos). It has a rough feel in the tongue but it really tastes good it kept me cool under the sun XD.


Yoh-Gee's original frozen yogurt


All in all my first experience at Mercato Centrale was really fulfilling but I WON'T Recommend this if you're going alone. Why? You might spend over a thousand pesos just to satisfy your cravings XD. But seriously, I see myself gong back there sometime soon to try out other foods. This place is HIGHLY recommended for foodies who wanted to try something different.And be sure to go there early to get the best view and be able to get decent food shots. ^_^


I'll be back soon. D

And by the way, they do free taste test to help you decide whether to buy or buy more. XD

The Philippine International PyroMusical Competition 2011


Taken from Google

For those who would be interested watching fireworks at night or into fireworks photography, this one's for you. I know I'm gonna miss this event (for the nth time again XD) but there's always next year XD.

Here are their schedule:

PyroMusical Competition Schedule:
February 12, 2011 – South Korea and Spain
February 19, 2011 – Portugal and UK
February 26, 2011 – China and France
March 5, 2011 – Japan and Canada
March 12, 2011 – Philippine and Australia

Just make sure you secure the best seats in the house, sit back, relax and enjoy the show. XD

You may want to read more here.

Tuesday, February 8

The 16th Philippine International Hot Air Balloon Fiesta

Another event that I'll be missing XD. Anyway, there will always be a next year though XD

Taken from Google

The 16th Philippine International Hot Air Balloon Fiesta will be from February 10 to 13, 2011 to be held at Clark Special Economic Zone, Angeles City.

Schedule for the 2011Balloon Fiesta.

Disclaimer: The information provided on this website were prepared for convenience only. Programmed schedules are subject to change without notification. A large variety of factors affect the actual times these activities occur, or cause their cancellation.

February 10
THURSDAY
FIRST FIESTA DAY
Philippine Army Flag Jump 5:00-5:45AM
Hot Air Balloon Flights 5:45-7:00AM
RP/Malaysian/UK Paragliding Exhibition 5:45-7:30AM
ACFC Ultralight/Microlight Aircraft Formation Flights & Flour Bombing 7:30-8:30AM
Meynard Halili / Bill Wright Aerobatic Show 8:30-9:00AM
AFP / Civilian Sky Diving Exhibition 9:00-9:30AM
Radio-controlled Model Aircraft Demonstration 9:30-10:00AM
AOPA-P Light Airplane Balloon Bursting Competition 10:00-11:30AM
KAP/KTP Kite Flying Exhibition 11:30-12:00NN
Airlink/WCC/Omni/PPA/CIA/Orient flyby 12:00-12:30PM
Radio-controlled Model Aircraft Demonstration 12:30-1:00PM
Sky Diving Exhibition 1:00-1:30PM
Rolf Dunder 'Fascination' Airplane vs. Car Race 1:30-2:00PM
AOPA-P Light Aircraft Balloon Bursting Competition 2:00-3:00PM
FEATI/PHILSCA Rocketry Demonstration 3:00-3:30PM
ACFC Ultralight/Microlight Aircraft Formation Flights 3:30-4:00PM
Philippine Air Force Silent Drill and SPOW Bomb Sniffing Dog Exhibition 4:00-4:30PM
Meynard Halili / Bill Wright Aerobatic Show 4:30-5:00PM
RP/Malaysian/UK Paragliding Exhibition 5:00-5:30PM
Hot Air Balloon Fly-In 5:30-6:00PM
February 11
FRIDAY
SECOND FIESTA DAY
Philippine Army Flag Jump 5:00-5:45AM
Hot Air Balloon Flights 5:45-7:00AM
RP/Malaysian/UK Paragliding Exhibition 5:45-7:30AM
ACFC Ultralight/Microlight Aircraft Formation Flights & Flour Bombing 7:30-8:30AM
Bill Wright/Meynard Halili/Les Vorosmarthy Aerobatic Show 8:30-9:00AM
Skydiving Exhibition 9:00-9:30AM
Radio-controlled Model Aircraft Demonstration 9:30-10:00AM
Wings Over Asia / AOPA- P Light Aircraft Balloon Bursting Competition 10:00-11:00AM
KAP/KTP Kite Flying Exhibition 11:00-11:30AM
WCC/Aviatour/Omni/PPA/Orient flyby 11:30-12:00NN
German Aerobatic Glider Flight 12:00-1:00PM
Civilian Sky Diving Exhibition 1:00-1:30PM
Jet Turbine Radio-controlled Modeller Demos 1:30-2:00PM
AOPA-P Light Aircraft Balloon Bursting Competition 2:00-3:00PM
Wings Over Asia Aviators Social Gathering 2:30-5:00PM
Car Drifting Display 3:00-3:30PM
FEATI/PHILSCA Rocketry Demonstration 3:30-4:00PM
ACFC Ultralight/Microlight Aircraft Formation Flights 4:00-4:30PM
Bill Wright/Meynard Halili/Les Vorosmarthy Aerobatic Show 4:30-5:00PM
RP/Malaysian/UK Paragliding Exhibition 5:00-5:30PM
Hot Air Balloon Fly-In 5:30-6:00PM
February 12
SATURDAY
THIRD FIESTA DAY
Philippine Army Flag Jump 5:00-5:45AM
Hot Air Balloon Flights 5:45-7:00AM
RP/Malaysian/UK Paragliding Exhibition 5:45-7:30AM
ACFC Ultralight/Microlight Aircraft Formation Flights & Flour Bombing 7:30-8:00AM
Skydiving Exhibition 8:00-8:30AM
Jet Turbine Radio-controlled Modeller Demos 8:30-9:00AM
Bill Wright/Meynard Halili/Les Vorosmarthy Aerobatic Show 9:00-9:45AM
Helicopter Flight Display 9:45-10:30AM
Philippine Coast Guard Rescue Demonstration 10:30-11:00AM
Wings Over Asia / AOPA- P Light Aircraft Balloon Bursting Competition 11:00-12:00NN
WCC/Aviatour/Omni/PPA/CIA/Orient flyby 12:00-12:30PM
Radio-controlled Model Aircraft Demonstration 12:30-1:00PM
German Aerobatic Glider Flight 1:00-1:30PM
KAP/KTP Kite Flying Exhibition 1:30-2:00PM
Wings Over Asia / AOPA- P Light Aircraft Balloon Bursting Competition 2:00-2:45PM
Sky Diving Exhibition 2:45-3:15PM
CIAC Fire-fighting Demonstration 3:15-3:45PM
Bill Wright/Meynard Halili/Les Vorosmarthy Aerobatic Show 3:45-4:30PM
ACFC Ultralight/Microlight Aircraft Formation Flights 4:30-5:00PM
FEATI/PHILSCA Rocketry Demonstration 5:00-5:30PM
RP/Malaysian/UK Paragliding Exhibition 5:30-6:00PM
Hot Air Balloon Night Glow 6:00-6:30PM
February 13
SUNDAY
FOURTH FIESTA DAY
Philippine Army Flag Jump 5:20-5:30AM
Hot Air Balloon Flights 5:30-7:00AM
RP/Malaysian/UK Paragliding Exhibition 7:00-7:30AM
ACFC Ultralight/Microlight Aircraft Formation Flights & Flour Bombing 7:30-8:00AM
Civilian Skydiving Exhibition 8:00-8:30AM
Meynard Halili/Bill Wright Aerobatic Show 8:30-9:15AM
Coast Guard Helicopter Rescue Demonstration 9:15-10:00AM
Wings Over Asia / AOPA- P Light Aircraft Balloon Bursting Competition 10:00-11:00AM
CIAC Fire-fighting Demonstration 11:00-12:00NN
Radio-controlled Model Aircraft Demonstration 12:00-12:30PM
Car Drifting Demonstration 12:30-1:00PM
WCC/Aviatour/Omni/PPA/Orient flyby 1:00-1:30PM
KAP/KTP Kite Flying Exhibition 1:30-2:30PM
AFP / Civilian Sky Diving Exhibition 3:00-3:30PM
ACFC Ultralight/Microlight Aircraft Formation Flights 3:30-4:00PM
CareJet Westwind Fly-By 4:00-4:15PM
Meynard Halili / Bill Wright Aerobatic Show 4:15-5:00PM
RP/Malaysian/UK Paragliding Exhibition 5:00-5:30PM
Hot Air Balloon Valentines Night Glow 5:30-7:30PM

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