Idol ko si Tatay!

It's Father's Day! To me, it's really all marketing hype having such a particular day to honor them, but hey, am not complaining. What I mean is that, with dads like mine, everyday should be Father's Day.

True, "Idol Ko Si Tatay", and I feel that the Guy up there is just so good to me that he gave me such supportive and loving parents. Because today is all about Dads, here's sharing with you why he is, and will forever be my "Idol".

Five Resons why My Dad is My Idol

1. He is our family's McGyver
He may not look like Richard Dean Anderson but he may as well be Dad's apprentice - Dad can work the electric items, fix the car, repair the plumbing - he is our all around Handy Manny. I've always thought all men were like this, but no, that's just my Dad.

2. He is our musician
I remember that when we were kids, my sister and I danced while he tirelessly played the piano. I loved our bonding moments in our living room while the rest of the family listened to Dad's music. This would normally happen at the end of a busy week and hearing his music would be a soothing reward to all of us. Today, his music is being enjoyed by the community, as he regularly plays church music in our chapel.

3. He is our pillar of strength
His presence of mind in times of adversity has allowed me to manage my fears and control my actions. During medical emergencies, he would always appear to be the calmest among the group. He is ready to hold your hand and his soothing voice is just enough to make you relax even while in pain.

4. He is our number one fan
He never tires of talking about our accomplishments, achievements and would always boast of it to his peers and relatives. Dialogues with him are always full of wisdom. Because of this, his children are forever inspired.

5. He loves our mom
How a father treats his spouse is the best way to teach his children about love, respect and fear of God. While theirs is a relationship just like any other, their faith in God and patience with each other have become the foundation of their years together.




I love you Dad! Happy Father's Day!

Not for the Faint Hearted

I know, I know, I have not been diligently posting in this space of mine. I have no excuse... I can't say I've been busy (actually, I have been, and still is), but really now, who cares?

One thing I have not stopped doing though, is to be forever in search of the new, the innovative and the daring (okay, am still referring to food here). And in the course of doing this, I sometimes chance upon some hits and a few misses, but mind you, it just makes food more interesting! Here are some that are definitely worth trying. They're not really fancy - they're just nice.

Durian Chocolates



From a recent visit and rather painfully delayed flight from Davao, while deliberately trying to entertain myself through window shopping at the airport shops and kiosks, I chanced upon this rather unassuming box of Durian chocolates. Looking at it reminded me of the glorious days of "Flat Tops" chocolates but this version comes filled with sweetened Durian. Admittedly, I am not much of a fan of this King of all fruits but mind you, it was pretty decent.

Baked Polvoron

This one I found at the Salcedo Market, with the lady manning the counter with such pretty good selling skills that I just had to get one and try. What really caught my attention was the beautiful packaging it had, coupled with its innovative take on the humble Polvoron. Flavors which I loved were kiwi and cranberry.



Flavored, crisp and fragrant, it's one product you'd have to try on your next visit to the famous weekend market.

Sweet Mushroom in Syrup

A Tagaytay trip is just not complete without our family dropping by the original outlet of Mushroomburger.


Beyond the comfort that their burgers give me though is a newfound discovery - having their mushrooms served in syrup complete with banana essence and vanilla, it resembles the popular Sago't Gulaman with crushed ice. Nice!

Tom Yum Coated Peanuts

I guess you would find this all over Thailand but after trying this one, am now a fan. Sour & spicy, these are just your regular roasted peanuts coated with a rich reddish-brown breading that will just stimulate your entire being with lemongrass, kaffir and chillis doing their pungent best. The best match? A bottle of ice cold San Mig Premium beer.