Martha's Day

To my intellectual sparring partner, soul mate, food trip buddy, and beautiful sister, Happy Birthday! :) 

You deserve the best life has to offer. I love you!

-Faye

Hip Hip Hooray!

Bad hair day?

Even though fayeandmartha didn't reach our target of 150 blogs by our 3rd anniversary I am still proud of our accomplishments, thus far. I'm the first to tell people that I'm not a natural writer. It was because of Martha that I even get to squeeze a few decent (or as my mom would say 'Pwede na') entries.

I sometimes have trouble selecting interesting topics to blog about. I am also guilty of 'submitting' my entries pretty late. But my sister patiently and endlessly encourage (aka: nag) me until I finally relent. Haha! Kidding aside, I'm lucky to be part of this brainchild of hers. 

I give full credit to you, dear sister. Thank you for every happiness this blog has brought me. Happy anniversary! Love, love.

-Faye

Clueless

The culprits with my birthday cake and bottles of vino

I've been involved in throwing surprise parties a few times but I've never been at the receiving end of it. That's why when Martha and a few friends from work threw me one for my birthday this year, I was completely flabbergasted.

I was confused and befuddled at first then humbly touched and very happy. I knew what it entails to prepare a party, let alone a surprise one. My heart swelled when I learned of how they pulled it off, without me having the least bit of clue.

The theme could only be described as Disney Princess Slumber Party. Every girl should be made into a princess at least once in her life, right? They even made me wear a tiara! :) I'd say that's one night I'll forever look back with fondness. Thanks, girls! <3

-Faye

Pure Bliss

I have a question to ask and a confession to make. The question is "Do you believe in love at first sight?" and my confession is "Yes, I do." Normally, I'm not the type of person who would utter such declarations but someone made me change my belief.

Hi, Baby! :)

Although I knew of our impending meeting, I wasn't prepared when I finally saw him in person. I didn't think I could love someone upon laying eyes on them but last February, I did.

At first, I couldn't explain my feelings when I held hands with him. I wasn't afraid or anything so I just went for it. I took him in my arms and held him there for a long time. I tried to look into his eyes but they're closed. So I looked at his nose, lips, ears, and everywhere I could get my eyes on instead. It didn't take as much time as you'd think because he's only about a foot and half long.

I know I got you confused. I'm talking about my brand new nephew, of course! I was so amazed how a tiny being could bring out so much emotion from a person such as myself. I can't begin to imagine how his parents must feel. If I have to describe my 1st meeting with this little man, well, I just have to call it pure bliss.


-Faye

Tempurista

After dutifully tagging along while Ate Faye ran some errands one morning, I was rewarded with a scrumptious lunch at Tempura Japanese Grill. In retrospect, it's a bit ironic that we didn't order any tempura but it's fine since we snagged some great choices instead.

Uncle Sam's Maki (₱210) started our dining experience with a bang. Shrimp, mango, cucumber, and cream cheese bordered with rice and topped in bacon bits and mayo. It's like all good things rolled in one maki. So good! Arigatou gozaimasu, Uncle Sam (whoever you are) for creating this masterpiece.

Their Tori Teriyaki (₱215) was nice. Not the best we've ever tasted but it was nice. The chicken was moist and tender with just the right sweetness and smokey flavor from the grill.

Need to take a pic with my
new-found love,
Uncle Sam's Maki.

I was really craving for seafood, squid in particular, so I chose their Kaisen Sizzler (₱365) and was not disappointed. The platter consisted of generous chunks of tuna and salmon, clams, shrimp, and of course, squid with vegetables sauteed in a rich, savory sauce. Our orders didn't have rice yet so Ate had the Gomoku Chahan (₱75) which was fried rice and I had the Gohan (₱45) which was plain rice sprinkled with black sesame seeds on top.

Truth was, we couldn't make up our minds where to eat that day. Ate wanted rice and I wanted my squid so we went to the nearest restaurant that met both descriptions. The ambiance was unassuming and there was just one table occupied aside from us. I wasn't expecting to enjoy it so much. We walked in Tempura without any plans on doing another Japanese food review but walked out with every intention of doing one. We were pretty impressed.

Rating: 4.25/5

-Martha

Location:

Tempura Japanese Grill - GF Robinsons Place Manila, Adriatico St., Ermita, Manila

Brother Dear

My brother recently got married. Although I would have preferred to play organizer (Martha says it's because I love bossing people around) during the event, Martin insisted I become part of the entourage instead. I can't believe my little brother's actually married! I mean, I still remember our childhood days when we would fight over a toy (his teeth marks are still visible on my arm) or when we used to go to the beach during summer vacations then head to Baguio for a couple of nights or when us siblings would watch movies and pig out on junk foods, you know, just hang out and have a great time.

Well, I guess we can still have fun and make new memories together. And now we have an additional family member to boot. Still, Martha said it best when she made her maid-of-honor toast: I'm sad because I'll miss him but happy, too because he found the love of his life.

Congratulations and Best Wishes, Tin & Pam! :)

-Faye

Keeping in Touch

T: Lunch at Luz Kitchenette in Gapan
B: With cousins Ochie and Akie

Anytime we visit our relatives in the province is a happy occassion indeed. Martha and I, my mom, and a few aunts went to Nueva Ecija last week. We were there for only two days so I savored every minute catching up with my cousins, nieces, and aunts. We also enjoyed food we don't usually eat in the city like talangkang bukid, longganisa Cabanatuan, and the local delicacies: puto and suman.

They say that the Filipinos are known for their hospitality and I couldn't agree more. Who else but us would be delighted if a van full of people showed up at their doorstep and declared 'We'll stay here for the night'? Of course, our relatives were informed of our visit but you get my drift. Can't wait to see them again soon. :)

-Faye

...and Many More to Come!

I can't believe two years has passed since my sister Martha and I started writing or should I say, blogging. We have covered quite a lot of topics ranging from books, movies, sisterly bonding, to food. Most definitely, food. :P

I can't say that it was always easy coming up with an entry. I've had my bouts of tamad-itis (I've insisted it's writer's block). Besides, I work better under pressure (cramming maybe the more accurate term) writing two to three blogs in one sitting.

But it is always the same feeling after publishing a post. I'd feel elated, liberated, and proud that I was able to finish an 'article' (this is what Martha and I really call our blogs).

I would like to think (wish) that I'm getting better at this (because Martha is already great, I'm miles behind her). I also wish that we don't get tired of writing more blogs in the future. Happy Anniversary! :)


-Faye

Good News

Today, fayeandmartha reached a milestone by reaching a hundred blogs! :)

We've been putting thoughts to webpage (I would've said 'pen to paper') for two years now and although we're not widely viewed, I am very thankful. I feel a surge of special pride and joy for this but I feel more so for my beloved sister. 

Ate Faye often say that I'm a better writer than her but I beg to differ. I admire her courage to express her opinions, even if not everyone will agree. She doesn't just do reviews, she creates originals. She likes sharing her own ideas and adventures. Her entries give our site a more personal touch. I vow to follow her example more.

Writing keeps our minds healthy, I think, and we've grown since from our first ever blogs. Most of all, if I am to give our blog credit for anything, it brought the two of us closer. It gives me extreme comfort knowing we'll always have each other. Sharing this blog is one of the best decisions we've made. I hope our passion will last as long as our sisterhood. 

Raise your glass! :)

-Martha

On Being Holy

At Monasterio de Santa Clara in Quezon City

I am not a very religious person but I do observe some traditions associated with my family's faith. Last March marked this year's Lenten season. Annually, my family and I would go to churches and pray. Primarily to atone one's sins and ask for forgiveness.

Mom & cousin Balu at St. Francis of
Assissi in Mandaluyong City

We were able to visit quite a number of churches and parishes during the Holy Week. Frankly, it's not how many you get to visit but how you immerse yourself in the experience and have your spiritual self be 'cleansed' and 'fed'. Well, that's just my opinion.

I consider this time to reflect on the things that happened, so far, in my life. How I reacted to some of my past misgivings or errors made.


Basically, this is when I make a promise or resolution to try and better myself. I'm also with my family when I do this so that's a plus factor.

Maybe this quote can sum up my prayers: 'Whatever I have in mind Lord, I surrender them to You. I will do the best I can but in the end, let Your will be done. Amen.'


-Faye

Beat the Heat

Summer is officially here in Manila. And it is hot! Not everyone welcomes this news with open arms (I'm one of them) but instead of being hot-headed about it (pun intended), I try to cool down with these:

1. Chowking's Halo-Halo (Regular w/ 1 scoop ice cream)

The more affordable and easily accessible choice to quench that summer heat. Shaved ice topped with pinipig (rice crispies), sago, gulaman (jelly), banana, leche flan, and ube ice cream.

Price: ₱ 76

2. Flavours of China's Buco Pandan Sherbet

Smooth buco pandan sherbet, gulaman, and pinipig. Simple ingredients but oh-so-flavorful treat! 

Price: ₱ 90






3. Icebergs' Super Halo-Halo

Their super finely shaved ice is topped with banana, sago, gulaman, corn flakes, leche flan, ube jam, macapuno balls, and two scoops of ice cream. Tell me your mouth is not watering.

Price: ₱ 108

4. Icebergs' Super Mais Con Hielo

Yellow sweet corn, corn flakes, and two scoops of vanilla ice cream swimming gloriously on top of their shaved ice. Yum, yum, yum!

Price: ₱ 118 

5. Icebergs' Caramel Flan Con Hielo

The best I've tasted this summer. Shaved ice embedded under ripe mangoes, creamy banana, soft macapuno balls, luscious leche flan, a scoop of their vanilla ice cream in the middle, and caramel sauce. 'Nuff said!

Price: ₱ 128

Summer has just begun so I have a feeling this blog entry may have a part 2 coming up. ;p

-Faye 


Location:
Chowking - MCU, Caloocan City
Flavours of China - 2/F The Block, SM North EDSA, Quezon City
Icebergs - 5 Timog Ave., South Triangle, Quezon City

What's Your Flavour?

Last week, after an afternoon of prayers and solemn vigil with my family, we head to Flavours of China to chatter merrily while dining. A perfect day, if you ask me.

Sure bet, Sherbet!

Oh Miki, you're so fine.

Like most Chinese restos, the interior of Flavours of China (in SM The Block) is warmly lit and cozily furnished with woods and reds. We were served complimentary shrimp crackers which we munched on while waiting for our orders.

Oddly, our desserts were served first. Perhaps it's because of the scorching hot weather (Hello summer!). We didn't mind though since we couldn't resist their best-seller Buco Pandan Sherbet (₱90). Mouth-watering buco sherbet with pandan jelly and rice crispies. Who knew these simple ingredients would be to-die-for? Daddy had Chicken Lauriat (₱209) consisting of lechon macau, pansit, fried chicken, rice, and buchi. Across, Mommy and Tita Baby slurped on their Siomai Noodle Soup (₱120) and Sharksfin Noodle Soup (₱130), respectively. These are thin noodles with dumplings, greens, and savory soup.

As for Ate Faye and I, we chose something new from their menu: Miki Bihon with Lechon Macau (₱240). 'Twas a good thing we shared because of the humongous serving! The miki bihon is tasty and generously topped with seafood, lechon macau, and bok choy. Delish!

Everything we had was palatable. My dining experience was A+ because I was in good company. We were spiritually and physically full. Time is always well spent with family. Again, a perfect day if you ask me. :)

Rating: 4.25/5

-Martha

What a Wonderful Life

Okay. Christmas is quite finished and everyone's recovering from the New Year festivities. But I  believe the holiday spirit should not end with the season. I want to share a classic film which speaks of my point exactly.

It's a Wonderful Life is a 1946 (Surprise! It's in black and white.) Christmas movie by Frank Capra. The 'life' in reference and at stake here is George Bailey's, a man best of his kind who faces his worst on Christmas eve. Hence, God sends George's guardian angel, Clarence, to prevent him from committing a terrible mistake.

The sincerity of the characters and the story telling (with series of flashbacks) add whim and color to the otherwise monochromatic screen. I'm struck to find that it was a box office flop during its time of release. Now, it is rightfully listed by the American Film Institute as one of 100 best American films ever made. I guess sometimes it takes awhile to look closer and dig deeper to recognize one's beauty.

This simple story is so beautiful that it captures hearts from its era up to the present. It shows viewers the gift of life and family that we must appreciate each day, whether good or bad. In a more personal note, I learned that sometimes, like George, we may feel little and unsatisfied with our lives, not realizing the countless blessings that surround us, not knowing how much we truly matter.

So let's keep celebrating... For it's a wonderful life indeed. 

Happy 2013, y'all. :)

-Martha

Tita Ateng

Auntie with Mom & me

My mom's Ate, Tita Ateng, is going back to the U.S. soon so we grabbed the opportunity to have lunch with her this afternoon. There is never a dull moment when you're with her. I laughed out loud at her funny stories (mostly of their childhood memories) and listened solemnly at her sound advises (maybe a sermon or two). :)

She's not only my aunt but also my godmother. Truly, time spent with one's family is priceless.


-Faye

Daddy's Girls

Last week, Martha and I spent a fun afternoon with our dad. We took him to BonChon for lunch because we think their chicken tastes like his recipe and we wanted to have his opinion.

Aside from our usual order (chicken combo and beef bulgogi), we tried their bulgogi wrap, kimchi coleslaw, fries, and onion rings. We asked him to rate the food but we were not optimistic since he's a tough critic. He gave Icebergs a measly rating of 3/5! So we were taken aback when he declared it 4/5. I guess he finally found his fast food of choice in BonChon. :)

For dessert, I had Quickly's Super Taro Ice with extra Nata. Martha and Dad opted for Dairy Queen's pineapple sundae and choco waffle cone, respectively. After a quick trip to the bookstore and some window shopping, we headed home.

My dad doesn't like to smile in his photos so I had a hard time choosing which ones to put up here.

Anyway, Martha and I had a great time with him and I hope he did, too. We may not be little anymore but in our hearts we'll always be 'Daddy's Girls'. :)

-Faye

Location:
Chicken BonChon - 3rd Flr The Annex, SM North EDSA, Quezon City, Metro Manila
Dairy Queen - G/F The Annex, SM North EDSA, Quezon City, Metro Manila

Tip of the Icebergs

Last last week, my sister and I were at the mall with our mom and dad. Ate Faye was craving for ice cream while our parents wanted heavier meals. I wanted both. Haha!

We were passing by Icebergs so we decided to check out their menu. To my surprise, it turns out they have more than just desserts to offer. Here's what we ate:

Super Halo-Halo
So they served the desserts first before the main courses; However, we didn't complain. Their halo-halo was too enticing not to eat right away! You really get the value for your money with all things going in it: 1 scoop each of ube and cheese ice cream, gulaman, saba, peach, macapuno, nata de coco, leche flan, langka, cornflakes, and real corn! Yummmy!

Price: ₱108  
Rating: 4/5

Ham, Mushroom, and Cheese Omelette

Ate Faye, who's a big fan of eggs, ordered this and became a fan of this dish as well. The omelette is like a big, warm blanket with ham, button mushrooms, and gooey cheese inside. She particularly love the tomato paste sauce that compliments it nicely.

Price: ₱148     
Rating: 4/5

Cheesy Beef Lasagna

My lasagna was served in a deep, hot dish. True to its name, it was cheesy and beefy! I like the combination of flavors, the saltiness of the beef, the tang of the tomato, and the earthiness of the herbs. The pasta was also cooked al dente.

Price: ₱198     

Rating: 3.75/5

Classic Banana Split

We devoured this delicious dessert into splits! Their banana split had, of course, a split banana topped with scoops of vanilla, strawberry, and mango (instead of the usual chocolate) ice cream! Then topped with luscious whipped cream, nuts, and a maraschino cherry. I could bathe in this!

Price: ₱178    
Rating: 4.25/5

Lechon Kawali and Mighty AJ's Burger Meal

Daddy ate a hearty slab of crispy and juicy lechon kawali on rice with sweet gravy and atchara. Mommy's meal was a decent burger with 100% beef patty, lettuce, cheese, and tomato. It went with a side dish of fries and mayo/mustard dip. Both dishes were good enough for Ate and I but when we asked them to rate it, they gave each a mere 3. Haha! My parents are tougher food critics than us, eh?

Price: ₱188 (Lechon Kawali), ₱168 (Burger)
Rating: 3/5

To sum it all, our dining experience had been fun. Not only because of the great meal but also since we shared it with family. <3

-Martha

Location:
Icebergs - UGF Main Bldg. SM North EDSA, Quezon City

Bonding Time

Martha decided to treat me to an afternoon of carefree, relaxing, and fun time. She said it's her birthday gift to me. It was also a time for us to get ideas for or finalize blog entries. We headed to a nearby mall where we spent quite a bit of time sampling make-ups, trying on dresses and shoes. Shopping is never more fun when you're with a good friend, luckily that's also my sister.

L-R: Martha can't seem to find the right blush; Me deciding if I should buy the shoe (I didn't)

With curious looks from other shoppers and nice enough sales ladies we got to take some pictures for our site. Although Martha didn't get to buy anything ('What outrageous prices!'), I took home a cool, gray hoodie. And after grabbing something to eat we finally called it a day.

I squeezed three blog posts for that outing alone. Time well spent, don't you think? ;)


-Faye

Little Miss Sophie

My parents, a couple of aunts, and I recently visited our relatives in the province. It was our intent to unwind and relax with some of our favorite people. I'd say getting there was half the fun. What should have been a three hour drive turned into five. We kept on stopping at the side of the road since my aunts wanted to buy freshly harvested fruits and vegetables. It didn't matter how long we got there because we had a good time. We bought boiled corn, roasted corn, ripe mangoes, watermelon, and suman. We would've bought some more but we've already reached our uncle's house.

Sophie in her school uniform

There, we were greeted by the family: aunt, cousins, & cousin's kids.  The most enthusiastic welcome came from my funny little goddaughter, Sophie. She's five and very smart. Throughout our stay she told me her favorite stories: about where we should go, her mom and dad, siblings, school, her playthings, her crush (what?!), a red dress she wants me to buy for her (haha..). Funny, I realized I have a lot in common with this five-year-old girl!

In the afternoon, we visited my uncle's grave. It was the first time I got back there since he died last October. My aunt laid some flowers, lit a candle, and then we said our prayers. We still miss him.

That night, Sophie declared she's going to sleep in my room. My cousin asked if it's okay with me and I assured him that it was. I was curious as to what Sophie's up to next. I burst out laughing when I saw her hauling three bags full of clothes, toys, books, and pens into the room. Before going to sleep she amused us with song and dance numbers... Imitating her idols Taylor Swift and Justin Bieber. What a talented little girl!

The next day, Sophie learned of our impending departure. She sulked in her room and refused to see us go. Her mom said that Sophie doesn't like saying goodbyes. Though in the end, she kissed us and said her farewell.

Cheer up, Sophie! We'll see each other soon enough.



- Faye

Tito Ya

I just saw you not more than forty days ago. We ate lunch together. You said you liked shrimps so I gave you mine. You reminisced about your college life, med school, your work and your family. You told the best stories; stories that meant the most to you. Thank you for those memories. I won't forget them. Goodbye, Tito Ya. May you rest in peace.



-Faye

Muli

Madalas, napagbibiruan ang pagiging 'kuripot' daw ni Tito Danny. Sabi nga sa sobrang sipag at pagtitipid, naging paborito niyang pampalipas oras ang panunulsi. Panunulsi ng sirang kobre kama, kumot o di kaya'y lumang sako ng bigas.

Ngunit ang totoo, si Tito Danny ang isa sa pinaka-mapagbigay na taong nakilala ko. Hindi lamang sa materyal na bagay kundi sa mas importante, mas mahalagang pamamaraan. Kasama ng kanyang asawa at mga anak, buong puso niyang binuksan ang kanilang bahay at buhay para sa amin.

My beloved Tito Danny with his family

Naaalala ko pa nuong ako'y nasa kolehiyo at hindi ako madalas makadalaw sa Cabanatuan. Minsan, tila may pagtatampo niyang sinabi sa akin na "umuwi naman kayo dito" o kaya'y "bakit hindi muna kayo magbakasyon dito sa amin?". Eh, hindi nga ba't nagpagawa pa siya ng mga karagdagang silid para sa mga kapatid at kamag-anak niyang bumibisita?

Nang mawala si Lola Anya, akala ko mawawalan na rin ako ng mga masasayang alaala sa Cabanatuan. Hindi pala. Si Tito Danny pala ang papalit sa puwang na iyon. Siya na ang naging sentro ng aming pamilya. Siya rin ang nagbuklod sa kanilang magkakapatid at sa aming magpipinsan.

Kaya nga kahit sa huling pagkakataon, nais kong magpasalamat sa kanya. Sa lahat ng kanyang ibinahagi sa akin; sa walang pag-iimbot na pagpapatuloy niya sa kanyang tahanan at sa mga walang katumbas na mga alaala.

Maraming salamat, Tito Danny. Mahal na mahal ka namin. Hanggang sa muli.


-Faye