Through the Years

Friendships like ours, are not made in a day or even a year.
Friendships like ours, are built with long talks and revealing our true selves.
Friendships like ours, make us feel accepted and loved.
On your birthday, I want you to know I feel blessed to have you in my life.


I'm glad to have a wonderful friend like you. See you in June!

Ribs and Laughters

Since it’s the season for giving gifts and endless parties, for us, it is also a season of reunions and re-acquaintance with people we have not seen for a while. It has been years, I cannot even recall if it is five or six, but it’s been a while since we last bonded face to face. Good thing we have email, SMS and FB, the friendship is still intact.

The original date was weeks before but we had to reschedule because of the flu. We’re supposed to attend our HS reunion but conflicts on dates forbid us to attend. After a week of delay, we had our date set and ready for a night of chitchat and laughter.


For our date, we find La Maison Brasserie, a French Casual Dining Restaurant, in Greenbelt 5 an interesting place to eat and share good food. It was advertised as having the “best steaks” or at least something along that line.

First to arrive was the super trendy, Ms. Charito “Chato/Iking/Chamy” Gabriel, clad with her powerful Prada bag, Mikimoto pearls and of course, the Philip Stein watch. As always, Chato depicts the corporate banker type with elegance and character. I love her salt and pepper hair, suit her more compared to the highlighted do from before. She’s on the thin side nowadays but as I told her, adding a few pounds will do her good as well. As we were getting settled at our table, Chato bombarded me with tons of questions, I cannot help but look at her and go back to years back when we were still classmates in HS. I did miss her laughter, her antics and sarcasm and most special of all, her with and humor! Nothing beats Iking!

As we were waiting for our other date to arrive, we had to update ourselves and it was tiring yet fun. As the clock ticks later in the night, we wondered how come she’s still a no-show. I suddenly remembered she gets lost in the area. Tadah! She did!

The other Maria for the night is the very petite and cute, Ms. Rubyanne “Deng” Canasa, sporting a new hair color and laughing out loud that she got lost again within the Greenbelt 5 premises and having a hard time finding a parking slot. The ever conscious Deng is still the same, prettier in fact, as others say, the added years suit her best. She lamented on how hard it was for her to find a parking space for hours and it was a real laugh for us to hear her rant! Between the two, I have more contact with Deng through the years, but hearing her voice again, brings back memories.

We feasted ourselves with the house specialties and the baby back ribs were indeed tender and juicy as mentioned by some friends who already dined at La Maison. The service was good; very polite and helpful staff. The ambiance was quiet and comfy, stylish but relaxed. It is absolutely perfect for a date place. Overall, we really had a great dining experience.


Even though we missed my dearest twin, Mrs. Evangeline "Vangie" De Jesus-Cruz, the laughter and the voices were really ear-splitting with our own stories to tell and the tons of chismis with regards to our other class/batchmates. Just like in any occasion, we talked about almost everything under the sun. Next time around, we do hope to have Vangie with us - physically.


Much as we want to stay longer and chat, the night was almost over and everybody have her own schedules for the next day - getting ready for the last working day for the year and for flights to catch. After exchanging presents, kisses and hugs and tons of pictures, we said our goodbyes.

See you again soon, Deng and Chato! Hopefully with the rest of our intriguing classmates and friends! Oops, might be sooner, maybe along Harbour City Shopping Centre perhaps?!

P.E.P.P.E.R-achelle!

Pancakes. Electronics. Phad Thai. Phantom. Entertainment. Rachelle.

Today is Rachelle’s 39th birthday. Much as we want to have a Sistahud gathering to celebrate her birthday, we simply cannot. She lives thousand miles away from the rest of the girls and not to mention, it would cost us lots just to see physically her smiling face.

Yet, even before she turned 39, I already surprised her with several birthday presents when she visited us in Las Vegas during the holidays. I was really happy to see her again even for just 25 hours. It is time (and money!) well spent with one of my dearest friends. Lucky us!

After driving for almost four hours from Alhambra to the City of Lights, we shared breakfast at I.H.O.P. wherein they are known for famous American breakfast foods such as pancakes, waffles and omelettes. We shared a hearty meal with my sister and brother. Filling up our tummies with coffee and good food, we started our day in Las Vegas.



We got lost several times but we did reach our destination and we even saw the Welcome to Las Vegas Signage. We just could not resist so we took pictures. Then we went around the shopping district of WalMart, Office Depot, Ross, Best Buy, Circuit City and the like. Wow in 3 hours that is like a year’s worth of salary! He! He! He! It was fun updating each other with tons of stories and laughing out loud while waiting in line in the retail stores.

After shopping for the much needed stuff, we got tired and hungry. Finding a good place to eat, Rachelle saw one of my “memorable” restaurants in Las Vegas. I won’t tell the whole story about the said restaurant because I keep on laughing just remembering our faces. We had Thai food for late lunch and Rachelle got her dose of Thai Iced Tea and we had Phad Thai, Chicken and Pork BBQ, Tom Yum Goong and of course a big bowl of Steamed White Rice. Yum!!


Unfortunately, time is upon us and we had to get ready for our ultimate entertainment experience for the night. We treated Rachelle for an evening of music and opera, Phantom: The Las Vegas Spectacular at The Venetian Resort Hotel Casino. It is one of my absolute favorites ever and really anticipating this event the whole time. Rachelle loved the show and the state of the art technology and effects, even the custom-built theater made us feel that we were in the Opera Garnier in Paris. To complete the Phantom experience, Chloe and Reyboy bought her a Phantom souvenir coffee mug while I got the famous music box. Fantastic!


No trip to The Venetian would be complete without dining to one of its fine dining restaurants. Where else?! We made reservations prior to our Vegas trip at Mario Batali’s B&B Ristorante. It features Batali and his partner, Joseph Bastianich’s acclaimed blend of exquisite Italian food. We enjoyed our selection of appetizers and main courses and though Rachelle didn’t order dessert, I shared with her my chocolate gelato. Pure heaven! I can still remember the taste and am craving for more right now. That gelato is worth the trip and the wait!


Before heading back to our hotel after the late dinner, we strolled around the Venetian, had a picture taken with Humpty Dumpty, played a few slots and eventually drove throughout the Strip to see the lights.




It was already morning when we head back to the hotel but we had fun and enjoyed the trip! Then Rachelle gave me a Christmas present that was so cute. Thanks a lot my friend! I had sleep before heading back to Alhambra while I pack some stuff for her to bring home. I have gifts as well for dearest Nanay Charing, the uber tall Axel and of course, Kikay Kyla. Hope they enjoyed them!

Although it was just 25 hours, the time spent with Rachelle will certainly last for several months. I asked her prior to her leaving as I was hugging her if she enjoyed the day, she said she did and was so happy with all of her presents.

One thing that she just mentioned as she was pulling off the hotel driveway, “come back soon and stay longer”! Well, we certainly will now!


Rachelle, happy 39th birthday! Hope your day is filled with surprises and dreams come true.

When time was with her... She came early at last!

It was an advance birthday celebration (December 22 is the exact date) and a Christmas get-together rolled into one. I was leaving the next day for a Winter Holiday with my siblings and I cannot afford NOT to party with my Sistahud.

If you’ve been following our dates, you’ll know our side remark regarding the birthday girl, Mary Ann aka Marianna. She walks a lot. If the meeting place is in the Makati area and it’s a work day, she’ll definitely walk her way to the venue. Given the proximity, yes, it is good to walk but guess what, she always comes in late. So, for this date, I applaud Marianna. She came first to the venue. Hooray! December 17, 2008, a sure date to remember!

Yes, she still walked going to Tony Roma’s. I, on the other hand, was the tardy Sistahud. I got caught in terrible traffic coming from work and they were already eating appetizers when I reached TRG4. I cannot blame myself entirely for my tardiness, it’s the holiday season and everybody’s out for last minute shopping finds.

Once settled, we immediately got busy eating our ribs, seafood and steak dinner. Yum! Yum! Since we love the freebie bread with herb butter from TRG4, we asked another serving and just munched them away. While we are having dinner, we talked about updates regarding career, family and of course, love life. This is always a necessity! Tsismis Sa Gitna Ng Tsibog!

You bet we do have our colorful love stories especially the birthday girl’s love life. All along she didn’t know that we’ve been talking about her in her sister’s blog. Even her Mom was part of the conversation. See, Marianna, you’re very famous! Charing!

Before we finished dinner, I brought out Rachelle’s Christmas presents for Elline and Marianna. Mom brought home from LA the gifts and I was really intrigued with them. Elline got the white bag and Marianna got two music CDs. Wow!

We also exchanged Christmas presents and gave Marianna’s birthday treats as well. In return, they gave me Rachelle’s Christmas presents intending to bring them with me when I leave the next day.

It was another year of good food, tons of laughter and precious moments with the Sistahud.

The next cycle of dates will be my birthday celebration unless Rachelle decides to visit Manila before June 2009, we will definitely book a weekend all together and bond!

Mary Ann - wishing you every good thing that life can bring, on your birthday and always.

Fantastic Dad

For his 55th birthday, I have things to tell my Dad…

1. He was right. About pretty much everything.
2. Money really doesn’t grow on trees.
3. I was too listening.
4. Kids don’t forget the good stuff.

5. Take time out and relax.
6. Thanks for the lectures and the love.
7. You’re way above par.
8. I love you in a BIG way!

Have a Happy 55th Birthday, Dadi! Enjoy the weeklong vacation with Mom in the entertainment capital of the world!

Big Booty of Treats

Boo! It's Halloween and it's time for trick or treat!


All you need to do is say "trick-or-treat," smile, extend your Halloween bag and voila - Halloween candies!


All the kids had their fair share of a bagful of nice Halloween treats.


Have a Fa-boo-lous Halloween!

Fantastic Mommy

It’s your birthday and if I could wrap love in a ribbon, it would be my gift to you.

Mommy, we’ve shared so much,

I have enough memories to fill my heart for a thousand years.

I hope you’ll always know how very special you are and how lucky the world is to have you in it.

Happy 55th Birthday, Mami!

Red. Hot. Chili. Elline!!!

We usually don’t select a theme for our birthday celebrations but a few years back, we had Japanese for the whole year, then Chinese and then finally we got tired from the same cuisines. We experimented with fusions of dishes and yet we still craved for more. However, whatever the choice, it still is good as long as we are filled with good company and laughter.

For Ella Elline’s post birthday celebration, she craved for a Tex-Mex flare. Where else did we go but Chili’s Grill and Bar in Greenbelt One. The three of us cannot remember the last time we ate at Chili’s. We had a fun time guessing when but, at the end, we failed. (Now I have to check the big albums to know when.)

I came first so I got a good table, with a good view too -- the Legaspi Street and a very weird couple having early dinner. I wasn’t able to get a snack so I gladly ordered some appetizers and by the time I had company I was a little bit full. Elline arrived next and since Mary Ann was running late we availed of the Wi-Fi services of the restaurant. I gladly helped Elline solve her biggest problem to date and she savored the free Wi-Fi.


While waiting for Mary Ann to arrive, we were making fun of her. You might ask why, because she always came late whenever we have gatherings within the Ayala area. Why again, because she walks around the Makati Commercial Business District. Nevertheless, we salute her for her enthusiasm. How I wish I had the drive of Mary Ann!!!


It didn’t take long for Mary Ann to arrive. So when se did, we ordered our choices. While we enjoyed dinner and shared our stories, we missed another Sistahud. I just wish by the next celebration she’ll be able to join us, perhaps on her birthday. You know who you are and do visit us soon!

Before we parted ways, I gave them my “pasalubongs” and we gave Elline her birthday presents. We even checked our calendars for Mary Ann’s birthday blowout. Since I won’t be here for the Holidays, we’ll have an advance celebration for the Mary Ann Birthday and Christmas treat. Another Sistahud event that’s worth waiting for!

Elline – happy birthday to an ageless beauty! For the Sistahuds - let's do this again soon!

Happy Easter!

In one warm, gentle, spring breeze,
Easter reveals all the impossible wonders and beauty hiding within -
As if all creation smiles and whispers, "Life is good!"

Wishing you all a springtime of tiny amazements.

Happy St. Patrick's!

May God grant you always...
A sunbeam to warm you,
A moonbeam to charm you,
A sheltering angel
So nothing can harm you...

Laughter to cheer you,
Faithful friends near you,
And whenever you pray,
Heaven to hear you.

Happy St. Patrick's Day!!!

Claw Time

Chloé celebrated her 27th birthday last Monday, the 28th of January.

With no definite plans until 5pm, we got ready for a dinner somewhere in the area of The Fort. There are some new restaurants in Bonifacio High Street that we wanted to try out and that day is one of the best days to eat out. Right before leaving the house, Chloé decided to call a number of restaurants and find out which will appeal to her appetite.

We finally decided to have dinner at Claw Daddy’s Crab House and American Grill at Bonifacio High Street. They serve seafood and South American dishes. Claw Daddy’s a family-friendly restaurant and very casual.

Mom, Yaya Helen and Master Joeric were the first to arrive and were already seated when we reached the place. As we read the menu, there are so many to choose from and it was quite difficult to pick what we want to eat.


Together with Chloé, Reyboy and Yaya Juvy we started feasting with the buttered corn on the cob that they serve for free as appetizers. It was good! Corn on the cob is a better replacement for free bread. What a great start to a great night.

As we waited for our Dad to arrive with Patrick, Tito Joey and Tita Amor with her three fellow Pediatricians, Mom dissected the menu and stared ordering.

We tried the Boston Clam Chowder (sans the sourdough bread – sad!), Creole Crispy Shrimps (crispy enough), Classic Caesar Salad and Nachos for start-up. It was all good except for the BCC. According to my Mom, Italianni’s Clam Chowder is way better. But it is still delicious!


For our main course, we ordered three plates of All-Shrimp Basket, Cold Seafood Platter and of course, the ultimate crabs - two types – Butter Ginger Crabs (sautéed in white wine ginger and lots of butter); and Szechuan Crab (sautéed in sweet, spicy, and gingery Szechuan sauce).


It was a fun experience for everybody since we get to use our hands to eat all the seafood. We were provided with Orange Bibs with the fading imprint of “Who’s Your Clawdaddy?” Semi-hot wash towels and tons of paper towels were given to us to prevent any stains.


It was not even messy for us since they do have this bucket in the middle of each table. You’ll always have a clean plate since you can easily dunk your empty shells into the bin.


Before I forget, they don’t have a cracker; instead they have a square marble tile with a black stone. Yaya Helen and Yaya Juvy were laughing their hearts out since the black stone reminds them of what we usually see in spas. Get my drift?


Chloé enjoyed her birthday dinner so much that even the free birthday dessert – a slice of the Mudslice Cake was memorable enough for us. We even brought the birthday cake Mom bought for Chloe and the servers gladly serve it for us after tons of picture taking.


On our way home, I was telling Mom on the phone that it is better to go to Claw Daddy for lunch so that you have longer time to shell out the shrimps and crabs and more time to savor the good food.


As for the rest of the birthday dinner attendees, I can guarantee that they did enjoy every minute of their dining experience.


Until our next clawing session and to my favorite sister: Wishing you health, wealth, peace, and the warmth that comes with loving family and friends.

Six "Single" Ladies

As early as the last quarter of 2007, Kumareng April’s very excited for her trip back to Manila. We didn’t get a chance to see each other the last time April and her family went to visit in 2006 so I’m so eager for their next visit.

Before they left Vevey, Switzerland I already confirmed with April our date with other HSFs. Gladly, I called and informed a few HSFs and booked the date. She’ll have a hectic schedule with the family and we want to have a concrete date of our kitakits. January 3, 2008 turned out to be a memory-filled event for us.


Along with Mrs. April Daisy Tupas-Buenaventura and me, four more HSFs were able to attend. Mrs. Adina Benosa-Manansala, Mrs. Ruth Cervantes-Casiño, Mrs. Czarina Imperial-Cuenca and Ms. Agripina Banigoos completed our group. Yes, only six HSFs, I invited a few more but due to their work load and the traffic that day they opted not to attend.


Six HSFs is a good number. April was happy to see familiar faces after a long time of nil communication with other HSFs. Agripina who was back for the New Year from Malaysia was also happy with the dinner date. Much to our surprise, Adina was able to go with the permission of the very jealous husband (hihihi). Czarina was able to leave her kid with her Mom to enjoy a night with friends.

Even though we’re only six, the laughter and the voices were really earsplitting with our own stories to tell and the tons of chismis with regards to our other class/batchmates. Just like in any occasion, we talked about almost everything under the sun.


Much as we want to stay longer and chat, the night was almost over and everybody have their own schedules for the next day. After exchanging kisses and hugs and tons of pictures, we said our goodbyes.

To Adina – Thanks for everything. Salamat din kamo kay Alvin. Kitakits sa YM. Ilang talon ka lang sa akin ha.

To April Daisy – I’ll see you soon and kisses to your two cute boys, sama na si Francis. Let’s keep the communication lines open especially when you’re back in Vevey. Don’t forget my Bacci.
To Agripina – I’ll miss again your laughter; hopefully, we’ll see each other before September. Don’t forget the Malaysian chocolates.

To Czarina – Freshen up your IT skills ha para mas updated. Send our regards to Oliver.

To Ruth – A few more months and you’ll be closer to my home; more bonding time with my BFF. Did Elian love the “pabalot”? Give our thank you’s to Cong. Teddy for driving you all the way to MOA and having a picture taken with the group.


Dinner was very filling and with all the stories told that night it was way over board. Kailan na kaya maulit?

Keeping Old Times, Strengthening Old Ties

Year in and year out we make it a point to see each other during special occasions. If we can’t make ourselves available in any ordinary day, we see to it that we meet at special dates within our lives. For years, I’ve been a little bit off in keeping my word with BFF Ruth in terms of seeing each other whenever it’s our birthday or the holidays. Time and distance are some big factors behind it but whatever date I miss, I make it up with constant emails, love letters and sending SMS.

For this year, I made it a point to lessen my shortcomings. BFF is always busy with her chores and I on the other hand have my own excuses. After I visited her at Cardinal, I told her that I’ll see her soon for the holidays. Lo and behold, after a number of missed get-togethers, we saw each other one more time before 2007 ended!


Over Chinese lunch and hot tea, we celebrated an early Christmas Lunch at the Highlands China Palace with Teddy and Elian. Baby Emilio’s still small so he stayed home with the grandparents.


Elian’s my godson and last time I saw him was three years ago in their residence in Don Antonio. I missed some of his birthday celebrations but I know I’m forgiven, because I didn’t forget my gifts! How’s that?! Hehehe. He really enjoyed the stuff I brought and was happy that we ate Chinese since he loves siu-mai.

Teddy, on the other hand, is looking very good; Ruth also. It looks like parenthood suits them both.


Seeing Ruth again with her family makes me reminisce the old days; the night-outs, the movie-dates, even the special lunches. Nowadays, it is really hard to do all the stuff since she’s already a mother of two and I’m always on the go.

Nevertheless, even if our bonding times are less, the true bond of friendship is still strong and will continue for a long time.