Ho Galbi, Kapitolyo

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Back in December, our team spent a hefty buffet lunch somewhere in Pasig. I really wish to explore as many restaurants as I can in Kapitolyo. I've been hearing from friends how the busy little streets can lead you to different cuisines. When we entered the parking lot of Ho Galbi, it's as if standing in a spacious garden in the middle of the city. Though I have the least expectations when it comes to Korean dishes, this restaurant did not disappoint a first timer. Take a look of the place and how they organised their sort of botanical garden.

How soothing to the eyes! I'm sure my Mom would like it here and would definitely ask what type of plants they got. Pardon us for wearing our company ID's. We were allowed to consume three hours for this team lunch. Well, this doesn't happen all the time. :-)

The entrance displays were quite amusing to me. It's like Christmas slash Halloween themes combined? And yes, we didn't bother to read what's on the board. I'm a bit exposed to Korean dramas since the emergence of "My Sassy Girl" but I think the only Korean word I know is "Oppa" - meaning older guys like Kuya or Tatay in Filipino. 

Below is part of the waiting area. Um mm, your thoughts?

Here's a full photo description of the facade. Right side is where food was displayed and left is where we had our table reservation.

I first noticed these bottle displays when we came in. Not sure if these are for sale. I've been dying to try one before with the hubby. Their rice wines just looked appealing to me in Korean dramas like the ones under huge tents where it's freezing cold. 

The roaster that I wish we've tried. I came in blank and lazy that day, all I want is to eat what's going to be served. There's a chef though beside the food displays who can take care of this for you. 

So, here's my first plate. Believe me, the second plate is exactly the same except for the rice. Chos! I obviously settled for the safer food but the shrimp is a blockbuster. The sweet and spicy combo just hit the spot! The rest didn't quite register to me.

While the entire food was generally OK and because I came back to the office really full, I was just disappointed to myself for not doing a little research prior. Also enter the word "experimental". I have one excuse though - I don't dine in buffets during lunch time most especially on working days. I'd probably go back for their dinner buffet when I am not required to think about work afterwards. Diba?

Finish your food or else..

Showing you our group photos so you will have an idea of what to expect inside. The staff were very accommodating. And they won't rush your plates. The place is ideal for a big bunch of people. Though when we were about to leave, a group near that TV (4th pic) caused too much smoke inside. Just don't be surprised if you leave smelling extremely delicious! He he!

Got this banner from their website. Click this photo to check out new branches in the Metro.

xx,

OneGutsyMom

The 2013 Journal That Can Change Someone's Life

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Few weeks back, I've posted my interest on getting a 2013 planner that best suits my personality and age group. Not that I feel too old right now, it's just that the hype of getting something that's too girly or exaggeratedly expensive (plus sugar and calorie overload) took slow on me this year. Though I don't really mind if it's given to me as a gift. Choosy pa ba? Hehe! But to be precise, I didn't exert much effort just to get something that's commonly acquired by most people today.

When I received an invite about a planner launch, it felt like a blessing in disguise as I really want to see something unique, something different and something I haven't seen from anyone I knew. I did a quick research and everything fell into place in just a snap. I thought, this is what I NEED and what I WANT. Isn't it surprising when something fell into the same category?

As soon as I stepped in at the venue, I was warmly welcomed by a group of people who are volunteers for Lifeline Foundation. Truth be told, I have a high regard to people who volunteer for the welfare of many. It's a calling; it's done because not only you have a pure heart to help people for no exchange at all but also because you have this innate belief that one move can change lives, tremendously. It's hard to believe that, especially with this much of exposure on countless negative things going around in and out the country. Though I know it is still possible, I find myself in doubt at times. 

That night, I had my fair share of hope.

The experience of getting to meet these inspiring people is one of a kind. It wasn't just the usual product launch or marketing event. I had the chance to see and hold an old planner (photo below), owned by a student who literally took time to doodle and convey whatever emotions he had on a certain day. The planner looked more like his own story book. His inputs were very creative. I suppose his parents must be so proud of him for taking his talent up to the next level. He volunteered to design this coming year's planner together with a group of master crafters, who some of them were even based in a different continent. Magnifico!

The event also opened a brief history on how Lifeline Foundation started. It is a non-stock, non-profit organization made up of doctors, nurses, dentists, educators, musicians, business people, counselors  graphic artists, and writers whose mission is to relieve the oppressed and empower the victim-minded.  They provided satellite schools, medical missions, and feeding programs.

They first started with a suicide prevention hotline in 2003. In the same year, they started giving free medical assistance to several Mangyan tribes in Mindoro. Each month, they also sponsor a person who cannot be productive because of medical liability. Twice a year, they host outreach programs that give free medical and dental assistance to several Mangyan tribes. They also encourage the public to participate by donating medicines, old clothes, rice or by volunteering to be a part of the trip.

Holidays 2013

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I am truly grateful to the good Lord for blessing me with such a wonderful and happy family that I could ever dream of. We may not have all the riches in the world but God provided us enough to sustain our daily needs and kept us in the best of health. There may be certain obstacles and trials in life, in different shapes and sizes, but love keeps us stronger in facing what's more difficult to handle. We may at times feel the lack of sense of belonging when we are emotionally deteriorated but we just always need to remember that our FAMILY, come what may, will always be our circle of strength and love.

We celebrated new year's eve at home and our little one filled us with so much laughter as we enjoy our simple feast.

This year, I can't be more thankful for spending my first day of 2013 with my family from my Father's side. I thank the Lord for giving us this chance and to start off the first of many gatherings we will soon celebrate together.

Joyful beginnings.

May we all be showered with God's favour and protection all throughout this year.

Much Love,

OneGutsyMom