As the year 2014 ends, let me welcome 2015 (the year of the sheep)

My long absence speaks for itself. It's Christmas and a lot of merry-making that kept me busy and silent here in my blog. I'm so thrilled for the coming year yet looking back and reminiscing the year that was. 2014 for me has been a marvelous one full of surprises and blessings (in small and big packages) that was least expected. And I'm so overjoyed, grateful for the year not only for the opportunities, experiences, material/financial things that has given to me and my family but also for the people that God let me encounter. In one way or another, it has its share of lows but in general it has been good and gratifying because it's more on the positive rather than the opposite.

I am looking forward to the coming year 2015 because it will be my year. I am born in the year 1979 and 2015 will be the year of the sheep. As Pope Francis said he is hopeful that the coming year will be full of tenderness and peace as what the character traits of a sheep are. What I'll be more cautious this start of the year and I will be taking care more of is my health. I promise to see my OB-Gyne for a pap smear (it is already due almost 4 years ago). I haven't seen my OB-Gyne doctor after my second pregnancy last 2012 and a pap smear is a must and due. My latest annual executive physical check-up result is not okay. My uric acid and creatinine levels showed high range values above the normal range. Three months ago my blood pressure level went up too (not my normal reading) and my IM (Internal medicine) doctor gave me medicine just in case my blood pressure will shoot up again. I'm not in the stage yet that I'm doing it as a maintenance medicine (God forbids). But so far, the result of my bad cholesterol is positive and okay. I won't take any chances. It is better to be safe and early detection is really a cure. I really wish that I am okay and I will be more cautious now in my lifestyle and make it healthier not only for myself but for my family most especially for my two girls.

I wish the same for you my fellow bloggers that we keep ourselves healthy for a longer life, longer journey to enjoy life more and experience God's gifts in different ways. Good health is the best gift we can give to ourselves. I wish you prosperous new year and a fruitful 2015 ahead. Till next year guys...ciao!

Owning a #CathKidston: The loooong wait is over!

Bringing London's Cath Kidston here in the Philippines is one brilliant idea. I couldn't contain my giddy and excitement when I first saw and read it at Ms. Daphne and then at Ms. Leah's blog when its first store in the Philippines opened to the public on December 6 in Manila at Bonifacio Global area in Taguig.


About 3 to 4 years ago, my SIL brought me my first Cath Kidston bag. That time, I never had any idea of the brand name when in fact it's been in the business since 1993 but only in London. Since then, I've been hearing and reading articles from lifestyle and mommy bloggers and later on became one of my favorite items too. Funny thing is one time, when I happen to visit a Divisoria-like store here in Davao City, I saw Cath Kidston-inspired merchandise (of course not the authentic ones)! So it really is popular already here.


Our recent trip to London a month ago (see link here), gave me an idea of how popular and a staple to every Londoner Cath Kidston bags are in particular. Visiting their shops there makes me feel like a child, drooling and envying every item they have in store. Not only I am wishing to get myself to have one but also for my little girls. But it all fade away after the generous SIL I have gave me this as the latest design Cath Kidston has released in the market. 

The London bus design of bag and a card/paper bill holder.
The newest design they introduced in the market.

How it looks in the inside of the card/paper bill holder.

The bag. You can snap it or not on the sides.

Unlike the regular inside or back zip pockets,
for this design it is located in front.  

See how roomy this bag is.

I also own a booklet of labels and stickers to which my SIL also gave me in summer this year. I use this when I send gifts in any occasion.

What I love about Cath Kidston bag in particular aside from the design and style, durability and versatility, is its texture. The bags that I own are made of water-proof materials that when it rains or accidentally something spills on it, I can just easily wipe it and not afraid of getting it stained or ruined. 

So to all Cath Kidston fanatics out there, I feel for you. A look of their trademark design alone can give thrill and chills to ones spine. It's something only a girl can understand. Looking forward to my next Cath Kidston possession. Anyway, it's Christmas!

Our 350-peso worth 6-feet Christmas Tree

Wondered where on Earth we acquired and purchased this very affordable tree? Where else but in Unitop! I've decided to put up a Christmas tree since the kids are big enough to appreciate the beauty and identity of it. What is Christmas anyway without the tree, or any sparkling lights and colorful decor to go with? 

Our Christmas 2014

Isn't it neat and DIY-ish? My decorations are the old ones that we have.
Since the actual location is where we put the stuffed toys of my kids,
I didn't get it but still designed it to be the cover of the tree base.
I'm so delighted of how it turned out a very creative idea! Isn't it?

Last year and the past 3 years ago, I just decorate our house with a Christmas garland and decorated it with Christmas balls, other Christmas accent and lights (like in the photo below).

Our Christmas 2011 until 2013

It looks like plain and simple in the photo because I captured it in
broad daylight. But when it's lit at night, it is beautiful to look at.
I thought of putting like this before because when I put a tree,
my little ones may play on the decors and lights of the tree
when its near their reach. But now, no more.

But whatever it is, it's nice to feel the spirit of Christmas with decorated surroundings. It adds to the 'feel' of what the season brings. Most importantly, Christmas are for kids and for kids-at-heart. I've been a kid and when the 'ber' months come, we excitedly bug our parents to decorate the house with everything 'Christmas-sy'. It's the spirit of this season that bring warmth and joy to one's heart and associate Christmas with merry-making and cheers to everyone. #christmastree #christmasdecors #christmasDIY

It's beginning to look a lot like Christmas!

Oh yeah! The happiest time of the year is soon to kick off a few days from now. 

A sneak peek of our first ever Christmas Tree at 6-feet tall.
Would you believe I got this for only P350.00? I kid you not!
Head on to Unitop... (Pardon for the blurry photo. It's the closest
I got that my daughter -her photo below- randomly took.)

The merriest decorations in these season are always in the malls.
So last Tuesday, we went for a dinner at the GMall Toril. Not only my kids
are having much fun but me as well as I see this decorated atrium full
of Christmas butingtings for sale fit for home decor!

Oh, this one is from Selfridges (London) where we had our month long vacation
last month. Their Christmas decoration is not only "Christmas-sy"
but very festive as well. Look at those paper "banderitas" (shall I call it that?).
Parang fiesta lang din...

But unlike the previous holidays, I felt that it isn't as merry as before. I felt that there are a lot of downside events (be it in politics, society, finances and even in show business...) in our country that affects my mood in feeling the spirit of the season. But nevertheless, as always and every year, I am grateful for the year that transpired. Because God has never left our side. I am praying for good health, provision for me and my loved ones, safety and protection from the Almighty God. And that He provided it all (not to mention the London vacation trip He allowed to happen). Despite some mishaps, it never is a hindrance to be thankful of the life He continues to bless me. Seeing my loved ones in tip top shape everyday and an out pour of blessings in all sorts are reasons to be in gratitude always.

'Tis the season to be jolly. Fa,la, la, la, la, la, la, la, la.... Happy Holidays everyone!

Me and my Big Mouth: On Carelessness and Mistaken Remarks

Pardon to post a negative circumstance on a Monday and the first day of the week. But I couldn't let this pass. I've done something wrong and realized it just now. God knows I did not mean it that way and I thank God for showing me the mistake I made this early on. While scrolling on to one of my social network sites a while ago, I've noticed I sent a message not meant for that person a couple of weeks ago. But even if I send that message to the right person, the message it convey is not the way I want that to be meant. It might be misinterpreted. After I read it and realized my clumsy and tactless act, I confess and said my prayer of sorry to my God. I felt bolts of guilt, regret and sorry to the one I accidentally sent a message to especially that person is someone dear to me and a good person. Of all the person, she is that somebody I admire. To be clear, it was not about talking ill to her. In the first place, I don't do it unless I was hurt or just venting out pain or feeling sorry. But at that moment, I wasn't feeling anything odd like that but rather joy and excitement. It's unlikely to have said that because it's far from reality. I was like, what am I thinking at that moment while typing it in the first place? I was in denial that I typed that but even myself I couldn't believe I made that statement. I really was thinking how in the world I made that statement and worst delivered it the wrong way.

I am pretty sure that person already read my message. I cannot take it back anymore. Though she never made me feel uneasy of that mistake I made, I just couldn't help but feel bad of myself to hurt a person important to me. Right now I just want to say sorry and it's not what I mean. Even myself am hurt of what I said. It is a typographical error and I didn't use the right word for the message I want to relay.

Moral lesson of my experience: 1) To be careful where to send your message, 2) Read your message carefully before sending it to the right person, 3) To be tactful and sensitive at all times.

There are really times that even if you want to be good and please yourself and others, there will also be moments that you will hurt yourself and other people even if you really don't mean it at all. 

I just want to give back and say my apologies. It was really a horrible mistake.

London Diaries 2014 (Part 1): Away From Home

Hey yah! I'm back. Sleeping blog it is. Not a pretty site. But while in that absence, I've been to and done something worth experiencing. I am not a traveler, but by heart, who wouldn't want to? I admit that I have fear of heights and flying by plane gives me panic attacks all the time. A 15-hour plane ride is no joke, gruesome and it's like eternity for me! But I've come to terms with myself while in the plane. The constant mind conditioning made my 15-hour journey worth the challenge. The idea of thirty-four-days-in-London was all I needed to fight back that anxiety and fear. 

As of writing, I am back to reality. Me and hubby are still recuperating that jet lag. Blame it on the 8-hour time difference here and in the United Kingdom. But nevertheless, the fun-filled memories we had in our London trip is still fresh and keeps us up in our momentum daily while chit chatting with our friends and family our wonderful experience. It is a different world out there that I will forever cherish. 

With all the photos we have taken, it's very difficult to know where to start. But for this post (and several more to come), I intended this as a diary from day 1 and to our everyday life while in London. Hope you guys enjoy some photos that I'll be sharing.

Warning: photo bombarded blog post ahead…

We chose Philippine Airlines as it flies straight to London's Heathrow
Airport from Manila Terminal 2 airport. but for 15-something hours. Quite tiring!
Others prefer to have stop-over let's say in the Mid East to somewhat stretch
those lax body muscles.

This is the inside of PAL plane. I like the service of their cabin crew.
Very warm, accommodating, friendly not to mention beautiful ladies.

One of our 2-full meal course in the plane. Their food is delicious
and fine. For a petite frame like me, it's quite generous.

One of our 2-full meal course. There is also a 2-snacks course which
I forgot to take photos of. Their drinks have wide selections as you can
just ask anytime you want.

A sight of London.

Our neighborhood where we stayed. I am amazed of London's
building structure. It's very fascinating to see brick-made
houses.

Inside the neighborhood. Most of the residences looks like this.
However there are also landed ones but generally all are made in bricks.
Those two are my constant companions roaming the city of London,
my nephew on the left and my hubby on the right.

This is the next day after our arrival. Heading to the park
for these two boys wanting a basketball one-on-one.

Entrance leading to the park. At this time, I'm freezing.
It's so cold especially it's early in the morning.

Upon reaching the park, this is my view while waiting for them to finish playing
basketball. It's so relaxing and refreshing to see this view.

Roaming around the city, we choose to ride the bus if not walking.
We love seating at the top deck to see the full view of London.

Each bus stop has a sign like this. Those are bus numbers that pass this
street. You can never get lost as the bus stops has legend route maps
which I haven't took photos of.

Behind my BIL and hubby is a passing bus. That's how double decker bus
looks like. Oh, that's the Big Ben (will let you see later on my upcoming posts
the tourists spots we visited).

Another mode of transportation in London is their tube/train/tram as what their
terms are. This is one of their busiest station, Liverpool Street. On the screen are
schedules of the timings of the train arrivals and departures.

This is the King's Cross Train Station where I'll show you later on the Platform
where Harry Potter scene was shot. Those machines are where you tap your
Oyster card or tickets which serves as payment for the ride. Oyster cards
are used to pay for all the rides in the city. 

A view of where the trains are passing. In here, we are waiting
for our train to arrive.

This is the inside of a tram (a kind of train also).

Cycles. If you want to have adventure, bicycles are for hire. There's a machine
here where you can drop your coins for renting this. No need for you to go back
here in case you're done using it. There are lots of like this in the city, so you can
just return it anywhere where there is a post of this.

Black cabs.

Worry not. If you're a tourist here, you can never get lost as maps are
very convenient for you in their sidewalks.

Most of the telephone booths here don't have telephones anymore.
It mainly serves as a tourist attraction where London is known. 

Being away from home, these two are the ones we terribly miss. Everyday 
Skype-ing is what keeps as in touch. This is our everyday communication
so that it doesn't feel like away from home.

So, this is just my initial London tour-sharing with you guys. Stay tuned in my upcoming London diaries 2014. I hope you enjoyed!

Four in a Row + 1 Free and more

I must have done something really good to have all the blessings poured out to me. Ever since, as I always say, I am not lucky joining in raffles, contests or giveaways. But I was hopeful. I do believe that there is a right time for everything. We'll never know. You can't have it today. But who knows what tomorrow may bring. And that is happening to me since I first won a raffle prize last December of 2011 and became full blown last year. Good things comes to those who patiently wait indeed. The past few weeks had been full of beautiful surprises. But for this post, I'll be sharing my happiness to you of how lucky I am to have won 3 blog giveaways in a just one week and another one came in this morning as I opened my email. 


For my first winning, I got this beautiful package of Pond's product line of BB creams. It's from the blog giveaway of Ms. Rowena Lei of Animetric's World as seen here. I am super overwhelmed because I am a Pond's user of their Age miracle day cream and their facial wash. I love how it makes my skin supple and glowing. As what I have said in my winning entry, that it gives radiance to my skin while it nourishes from within. I really love the effect in and on my skin. It really does a lot of wonders. Though I haven't tried yet their BB creams, for sure it will have the same effect on me.

The vanity mirror is a plus for me because the one that
I have in my desk gave way already and to think it's not mine.
I was guilty pa because it's my officemate mirror.

Okay, this one is a bonus winning I got from Ms. Lei herself.
I can't be more happier. I've been longing to buy K-Palette.
And now I have it for free. No sweat for me and my pocket!

These stuff are silently adding up to my wish list including the second winning I got from a doctor blogger (which i will have a separate post on), 2 food giveaways in which I won a cake (which I was disqualified because I'm not a resident of Metro Manila) and a perishable food (which I was still negotiating or requesting the host that I'll be able to get it on November pa) and the free one was a bag of Unilever products from a kind hearted person. All of them came in just in time and even more than I ever expected. Even if I didn't get the cake prize but still I am thankful that I was chosen as the lucky winner. Maybe a more qualified person needs that more than I needed it. I am still crossing fingers and hoping for more winnings in blogs and non-blog giveaways in the future. I hope this would not jinx everything but will put on good vibes all the more.

So to you dear readers, I will encourage you to join in blog giveaways. Who knows, your time will come.

Watch What You Eat

Recently, I've been hearing news of people who had experienced mild stroke; people that I knew personally and to my shock, a young celebrity who was hospitalized due to mild stroke (Paolo Ballesteros. Familiar? he even IG'ed it.). Another case is instant death which I blogged about it here. Their case perhaps are not known to them maybe because of complacency and denial. Most of us has the tendency to shrug off strange feeling in our body since it is still bearable that's why the thought of medical check-up is out of consideration. It is scary and worrisome that people who experience this kind of illness are getting it at a young age nowadays.


Just today, I experienced a 'tired' body feeling especially in the nape part and a few days ago my head aches. Though it is bearable since the past few days I am sleep-deprived. I knew I am tired that's why my head and body aches. It happens when I can't sleep at least straight 6 hours at night. Or if I tend to stress myself thinking on something that bugs me. Who does not eh? Every time I feel this, I sort to full body massage which relieves me after. High blood pressure did not come to mind since I am not hypertensive and we have annual medical examination offered in our office where I am employed. Every year results are okay and no need for me to worry. Though I always have findings in my urine since I have history in UTI (Urinary Tract Infection). It is not that alarming though but I am advised to drink 'healthy' fluids more.


I just thought of submitting myself to check my blood pressure this morning from our stationed office nurse. Lo and behold! First time my blood pressure read as 130/90. Who can't be alarmed with that?! The second reading after lunch, it rose to 140/90. Without second thoughts, I went to an IM (Internal Medicine) specialist immediately. When the doctor took my blood pressure reading, it rose to 150/90. Honestly, when I first knew of my initial reading, it scared and worried me already. My office mate nurse told me to just relax and for me not to worry because all the more it will trigger high BP reading. The doctor told me to have a complete rest/sleep, to not stress too much (which I am guilty of), avoid eating oily and salty food. He added too that too much exposure in front of the computer can also trigger high blood pressure. I haven't asked why but maybe because I told him I felt a bit my-world-is-spinning (in Filipino, hilo... ano nga ba yan in English?).


So there, I must change my daily routine like add up exercise and eating fish, vegetables and fruits more. Though pork for me I can easily get away with it since I can live without it. Lechon doesn't make me crave for it. So I may get rid of it for a while until I'm back in a healthy state. Let's stay fit, healthy in mind and body folks!

Now That You're Gone

I received a phone call yesterday that took me seconds to digest on it. A heartbreaking news of a sudden loss of a loved one. One of my close guy friend and classmate in high school lost his mother because of a sudden heart attack. The tragic death of her mom shocked me and is still unbelievable to me. This guyfriend of mine, we haven't seen each other for 18 long years. The last time we saw each other was at our high school graduation. Even though we still studied college in the same city, we had our respective circle of friends in our college years and time didn't permit us to meet once in a while. Two years after graduating from college, he flew to United Kingdom and worked there as a nurse. Even though for that span of time he comes home for a vacation here but I don't know why we could not meet. Thankfully, through the efforts of one of our classmate, we were able to meet just last week. It was a Thursday. It feels like nothing has changed and it feels good to be reunited.


His name is Jon. He's an only child. He lost his father a couple of years ago. I got to catch up with him during our meeting: his life alone in England. It's good to know how he has become a responsible son and a family to his relatives. I so admire him with all the accomplishments he had made for himself and for his relatives. Such a genuine heart at that. He always want to give the best for his mother. He said the only family he has right now is his mom. I felt a bit of guilt because I asked him a question pertaining to her long term plans whether to stay in UK for good or settle here. If not for his mom, there's no reason for him to get back here, he said. Maybe for a vacation just to reminisce the country where he grew up from. Then I shoot a question, what if your mom will be gone? Then he just shrugged. Then 3 days after that meeting, that question became a reality. I should have not asked that. Parang 'usog'? I felt weird and sorry.


It dawned to me again that in whatever way, God has its way of ending our lives in the right time and place. Who would have thought about dying when at that moment you are on for a great vacation with your mother? All plans are ready to be fulfilled. You are already in the pre-departure area ready to board the plane who'd bring you to your destination. You know your mom is in good shape and fit to do fun-filled activities. And then all of a sudden, it comes to a full stop. With Jon's mom, the unusual more than a month vacation that he spent here in the Philippines that should have been the usual 3-week vacation only gave more time of him and his mom to bond and be together. But it's such a bitter ending. Seeing your loved one pass away in your own eyes and feeling the pain she is undergoing, those seconds are like hours full of agony and hell. You wish that that moment will finally end and can easily be mended. You wish that everything will be okay but damn not. 


Right now, I just want to hug my friend really tight. I know he is not okay. I wish him to be but I know how it feels to have lost a loved one. I wish that hug could take away a bit of pain he is now feeling. But I know it is not too soon. I worry about him a lot. I feel so sorry for his loss. To you my friend Jon, I really wish you well and peace. I know it's hard because your mom is in good condition. You wouldn't expect that this all happen in a flash. But it happened. I pray for strength, for hope and comfort in this trying times. Just keep in mind and heart that God has reasons and that we should trust on that purpose for what happened. Cheng said, everything is in perfect timing. I guess it is. 

Happy Grandparents Day!

Now that I am a mother of two, I am very fortunate and privileged to have parents that are very supportive and stand as second parents to my daughters who truly loves them back. They never fail to take care of us siblings, up until we are parents of our own kids. They are always willing to make their time available for our children when we needed somebody to look after them. Every time I asked them this, I always feel ashamed or hesitant because I know how it is tiring to take care of two hyperactive girls considering my parents are in their senior years. But still they are not mindful of it and is very willing to 'parent' them.


My friends say that I am lucky to have my parents around (and even parents-in-law). I thank God for the gift of life and health He bestowed upon them. But because of age, there are still issues with health, but I am thankful that it is not dreadful and is very much manageable with God's grace. Both mothers and fathers that I have right now, I won't have it in any other way. They are the very supportive, generous and the most envied parents anyone could ever ask for. And as they say, I am the lucky one. But I say, our children are the luckiest because they have plenty of parents who love them even more. 

Smart Gilas Pilipinas #BasketballWorldCup2014

All eyes now are glued in the Basketball World Cup which is being held in Spain as our Team #GilasPilipinas is playing. Showing notable, unforgettable and almost-winning 3 straight games against the top 5 leading basketball teams in the whole world, namely: Croatia, Greece and Argentina, it marked tremendously in the history of Philippine basketball and that of the whole basketball world that the current 34th in rank will be making headlines even if they didn't end up victorious. What makes #Gilas stand out from the rest of the team is the spirit, dedication and heart #Puso they have put in the game. Watching those games again and again, I felt goosebumps and can't help but be proud of and with them. Being a non-sport fanatic, victory of this sort is not appealing to me. The rush and intensity that comes with it is too manly for me. But the moment I joined my husband to his delight and interest watching and staying in tune of the games, I felt a sense of pride and honor to my fellow Filipinos. Bringing back the bacon is another thing but being able to represent the country, making a remarkable place in each and everyone's heart and mind is more than anyone could wish for.

Last night, our Team, #Gilas played against the Argentina was a never-say-die game. The score 85-81 is a no nonsense game. My hubby was extremely 'into' the game at early morning around 12:30. At first quarter, it's already intense leading the #Gilas by 7 points and no score for the Argentines yet. What made it even more thrilling and jaw-dropping is the moves of Norwood over Scola. See clip below: 






Judging by the voice-over of Philippine commentators, it's such a remarkable move that even International sports journalists and enthusiasts made social media in raving party. See more of here. Reading on to these very positive and encouraging words from foreign bodies, it makes me twice to thrice proud of being a Filipino that a lot have looked down upon. So what makes us stand out from the rest of the world? Filipinos do things from the heart #Puso. Being passionate in everything we do and never gives up easily especially if it is for the country and family. Long live, Philippines! #pusongpinoy

"Ber"-ry Excited for the Holiday Season

September steps in and for us Filipinos, the long holiday season and celebration countdown begins. Yesterday we went mall-ing with the family, and the National Bookstore branch in SM City Davao has displayed Christmas decors and trees already. As a child and up till now, the Christmas season always bring delight and cheer to my heart like a kid. It never fades. It always amazes me. Maybe because we had the best Christmas celebrations my parents and family had contributed in me. I will see to it that my kids will experience the same or more joy and excitement I had. More than the celebration, the material gifts, the sumptuous food, the abundance of everything, I'll make sure that they will know the spirit of what Christmas brings: The joy and love when shared with the loved ones, reuniting with so much laughter and merriment around not any material thing could ever replace. 

Right now, I'm tuned in with Christmas songs playing in my computer here in the office. It feels so relaxing, pampa good vibes and just to bring a smile on my face on a Monday morning. And so I greet you Merry Christmas everyone! #Mondaymantra #Christmasgreetings2014 #holidayseasonishere

The Swiss Deli and Restaurant -Davao

When I was reading the blog post of Ms. Jane Go of Sugar & Spice and Everything Nice here, I know right away where to take hubby to have our dinner on that Friday night, The Swiss Deli and Restaurant it is. Its first establishment is located along J.P. Laurel Street, Davao City. Now that it opened its second store down South (along McArthur Highway Matina. The building where it is situated is beside Davao City Water District), it's much more accessible to Southerners like me. Upon looking at Ms. Jane's orders, I went for this…

Photo courtesy from Ms. Jane's blog post.

I am more on eating light nowadays, so I prefer this as my order. Aside that it is priced reasonably already, I am surprised that it is priced lower by 3 pesos here in Davao City at 162pesos. And one order is already huge in portion perfect for those who are on diet or watchful of what they are eating. I even shared this with my hubby. This one is yummy in itself. But because I love it saltier in taste, I wish it had bacon tidbits or parmesan cheese to have a kick on the pasta in it. But overall, I loved how it tasted and I'll surely be back ordering it again with them. 


The Swiss Deli and Restaurant:

Website: www.swissdelidavao.com

I. Lanang Branch
D’ Butcher D’ Baker, Inc.
The Swiss Deli and Restaurant
RS Compound (fronting Damosa Gateway)
Km. 7 Lanang, Davao City 8000
Philippines

Telephone Number: (+63-82) 234-0271
TeleFax number: (+63-82) 235-3418 / 235-3417
Business hours: Monday- Sunday 8:00 AM to 10:00 PM

E-mail: swissdelidavao@yahoo.com

II. Matina Branch
Matina Swiss Deli Inc.

La Cima Building 1
Mc. Arthur Highway
Corner Duhat and Camias Streets
Matina, Davao City 8000
Philippines

Telephone Number: (+63-82) 295-6168
TeleFax Number: (+63-82) 295-6169
Business hours: Monday- Sunday 8:00 AM to 10:00 PM

E-mail: matinaswissdeli@yahoo.com
Facebook Page: Matina.SwissDeli

WiFi Zone
With Function room for 30 persons
With affordable set menu

Our Little #donya

The long weekend gave me and my husband quality time to be with our kids. And on that note, we spent it as well at my parents house. Obviously, my parents are the most happiest when the kids are around. At 9 in the evening, my kids were still at the peak of their energy. My mother made this to one of my kids...





She's such a darling cracking up a hearty laugh while my father and her Ate Mariella was playing something and she enjoyed watching them. Our house at that hour was filled with so much laughter with this little one. I missed to document it through video. But surely these snap shots will make me remember of that happy moment with the kids and my parents around. And when they're a little grown up, I would tell stories to them of how precious this moment was. #justsharing #happymoments #kids

Happy Days ahead!

After that last post I published, good things have been coming our way and more. Good things come to those who certainly wait and it's all worth it. Such a wonderful feeling when you just claim everything to be positive and possible even if you find it impossible and unimaginable to happen. No, don't think of it that way! Don't ever allow even a little to think about it. As they say, habang may buhay, may pag asa! Ganun dapat tayo pume-peg sa buhay. Even if sometimes, things do not happen the way we want it, let's bear in mind that God has something better in store for us. Envision that thing, the bull's eye, so that life would be more colorful and exciting on the days to come. There's no reason to bum about the waiting period. It should give us hope and let's put that faith alive in us.


After a week, the waiting paid off indeed. I'll be seeing one important person in my life soon... and five more. It's too good to be true! Thank you Lord for the goodness! I'm so freaking impatient to let you know but I'm still not allowed to say anything. Nakakawalang gana ang post ko ano? No details yet but full of suspense and surprise. But I'll definitely blog it once we got there. I have the clearance to do so. One month more to go and I'm off for a great vacay! 

August is the Best!

I AM CLAIMING IT like it's gonna be all positive and the way I want it to be. Being assuming at times isn't that bad at all. It's just a matter of embracing good vibes and karma so that everything will follow accordingly. The start of the month gave us a reason to look forward to the coming days. Not to mention that this month has 3 declared holidays which means no work for a working parent like me, thus, more quality time with my kids. You might wonder why there are 3 instead of 2. The 3rd declared holiday is for Davaoeños ONLY. It is the month where we celebrate the Kadayawan sa Dabaw. It is our 29th year and considered the "Festival of festivals" as we feast the abundance Mother Nature has gifted our City. In every street, you see bountiful harvest of fruits being sold at a very affordable price. This is because there is a plentiful of supply of fruits from the region. I am lucky because my husband's family own a vast land because of my MIL's blood line (she's a Bagobo). And because they love farming (and hubby) too, we have generous rations of fruits from the fruit-bearing trees they planted, namely: durian, lanzones, mangosteen, rambutan, avocado and banana. For this alone are the reason why I will never leave my hometown. We have everything in here where urban cities don't have: peace, no heavy traffic, no excessive pollution, great climate, richness of soil for agriculture, nature, beach, clean water, laid back life and much more. 


The next reason why I'm so thrilled with August is it's my sister and my grandfather's birthday. Me and my family/relatives (at my father's side) is excited to spend an overnight trip to the beach this time at Mahan Garden Resort in the Island Garden City of Samal (IGACOS). It's the second grand reunion we always have next to Christmas. Another thing that I look forward to this month is the wedding of my former officemate. What makes it exciting for me is this will be my first time to wear a long dress/gown being the theme is formal. Normally, when I go to formal events, I'd wear a knee-length dress. It never goes beyond that. For me, I feel wearing a long dress makes me look like all the more petite having a 5'0 height. Or is it just my belief? Anyways, I'm still in the hunting stage of that long dress I'm gonna wear. By the way, what's a good design for a petite frame like me? Any suggestions?


Last but definitely not the least, this month will reveal something me and my hubby are planning for. I will not preempt anything yet as we are still in the verge of that suspenseful waiting in vain situation. This is why I am very hopeful and feeling blessed this month because with this I am grateful already to God because of the many opportunities He has bestowed me and my loved ones. There may be downs but it's part of the essence of life. God directs everything in our lives. Whether it will happen or not, I will still be thankful because I know God has a reason and purpose for everything that will happen. 

My Manila Diaries

Recently, just a few days ago, I was in the metro with hubby. And because I am not allowed to divulge anything (reserve for a separate post) and because it was just a quick visit, my photos will speak for my presence there with just a handful of evidence whilst in the place. I love Manila for some reasons: 1) there are a lot of places to see, experience and enjoy, 2) malls, shopping and a lot of sales going on, 3) food discoveries which are endless and 4) the vibe is always alive and up, on the go and updated. However, I don't see myself residing there because I want a laid back life and it's too chaotic for my preferred lifestyle. #justsaying But nevertheless, Manila is such a wonderful place to go, to be seen and experience. 

On board here. Always on time and most of the times ahead of time.
I am afraid of heights. Cebu Pacific arrives 10 minutes ahead of its time of arrival 
(as far as my experience is concerned). It lessens 10 minutes of my fear at that.

Taken when the in-flight voice recorder announces our arrival in Manila.
Plane is descending towards the runway. I took this to show my kids and housemates
what's it like when you are on top and inside the plane.

Took a cab towards the left to our place for one night.

After checking in, we headed to Makati area, particularly the Glorietta/ Greenbelt/ Landmark/ Rustan's, all found in one area which is really confusing when you are not familiar with the place. After we took our power lunch which is way past 2 in the afternoon, we stroll around like we are in a maze! As we found our way to Landmark which makes my heart skipped faster because of all those red letter SALE hanging everywhere, here's what I ended up buying. Kid's stuff! #motheratheart

These clothes are all on sale and for everything, I just paid less than 700.00pesos. It's almost closing time and as a result, I ended up panicked buying and I just grabbed everything and whatever my eyes crushes on.

To cap the night, we had coffee. I told hubby we eat at food shops where we can 't
find in Davao City. So far we managed it. Headed to our place past 11pm.

The next day was the real reason why we where there.
We were more than an hour ahead of our appointed time
and decided to eat breakfast in the vicinity to save time.
This budget-friendly breakfast meal is only 89.00pesos with a huge amount of serving (well, more than enough for my appetite, hehehe…).
It taste good too. Who says food in Manila is very expensive?
I don't think not all.

We took our lunch here.
It's at Greenbelt/Glorietta (not sure what building we were in).
Food and serving is alright and huge.
We were quite satisfied enough to fill our stomachs. 

And because hubby was craving for more, quite unusual for him, we ended up eating here less than an hour only after our lunch. And because, I wanted something sweet, I bought this yummy sans rival at only 60.00 paired with my hubby's cappuccino.
Such a sweet delight before heading to NAIA Terminal 3 for our return flight
back to Davao City.

Thank you Manila!