What Are You Thankful For?

If there is something I am truly thankful for right now, it would be having the chance to spend my weekends with my family. Let me share you the whys.

Years and year back, I once co-managed one of the biggest retail stores here in the Metro. Being the flagship store in the country, that requires your presence at work on weekends when most people come to shop in bigger groups. A weekend off is never an option unless you file for a vacation leave. That was my first job and I could say the most ideal one for a fresh graduate with a business degree. And like anyone else, I tried to enjoy it as much as I could.

Then came BPO and call center jobs.

I sheepishly admit, shifting my career that time is very encouraging. Since my current job is customer service by nature, I thought I'd have this edge already. Perhaps, landing to an office-based work seems more promising to me, regardless of the change in timezone. I spent tough years in the industry but I know I was paid well and have received the finest benefits. Though your acceptance to the job offer somehow includes your willingness to adjust your lifestyle and even missing a few social events. Those were challenging years for someone who aspires to move up to the corporate ladder. I've met a lot of good people, was harnessed with rigid training and learned to self-discipline when it comes to schedule adherence. 

If my memory serves me right, I only enjoyed 6 months straight of weekends off that is within the period of 5 years. Good thing I was still single then. As I look back, I know there is nothing to regret with those choices I made. It served me well in so many aspects and for that I am very thankful. I am thankful because it gave me the chance to appreciate what I have now.

 

Let me just clear that I have nothing against working during weekends. In fact, I have a high regard especially for parents who can effectively manage their time despite their absence during family days, which is normally on a Sunday. Maybe I'm just thankful because I don't need to find a "swap" just so I could attend a very special gathering when my shift falls on a weekend. Second, my daughter is just few years away from preparatory school and that makes we want to spend more time with her when we are both off from our weekday routines.

Third, hubby used to work on weekends these days because of urgent completion of site projects. We are truly grateful if the site is located in Manila, otherwise we need to wait for a week til he gets back. So if I'm not there too for my little one, how sad could be our home? Fourth, I usually make up for the things I can't do during working days, like giving her a bath, taking her to the playground, watching her favorite cartoons in the morning, and taking her to sleep. A few of the simple things I'd like to do.

 

Fifth, I'd like to take her to so many places where she can see and meet families who bond together too. That's part of personality development for kids her age and I want to give her that kind of exposure. I could go on and on with my reasons but the bottom line here is that I am very thankful that I don't struggle on this part, or at least not for now.

 

So, if you think you're not satisfied with the company where you belong at the moment, why not try to realize this part? It may somehow give you that big reason to be thankful instead, because what you are receiving is probably something that many are silently praying to have. Agree? :-)

Have a merry weekend!

xx, 

OneGutsyMom

It's A Boy!

It was a day full of love, well wishes, happiness and excitement for my best friend Joyce, who is soon giving birth to baby boy James Alfred. Thanks to our event organiser Filsyn for taking charge on all the party ideas from decorating the venue, food displays, games, souvenirs, etc. Career kung career mare, good job!

Hello Wish List

I'll be turning another year older in two weeks and it's something that makes me overwhelmingly happy and excited at the same time. We don't get celebrations like this during my younger years so that date on the calendar isn't really something to look forward to. Apparently, it changed since I became a Mother.

The years added define every fulfillment I earn facing the most impossible work or personal challenges and satisfaction on what I have achieved as a mother and a woman. That alone gives me a reason to be joyful and proud that I surpassed another year with immeasurable contentment and without losing aspirations in life.

So last night, I came up with a funny wish list and posted one on my Instagram account. It's sort of a reward I'd like to receive to gauge if I did well for the entire year. In case the hubby reads this, hey no pressure ha! :-)

Tory Burch Nylon Ella Tote 

I stopped buying bags for almost a year now to lessen the guilt. Ha ha! My last haul was my Large Brown Long Champ back in September and it's the most overused bag so far. See how useful it is for me - I carry it going to work, to malls, to anywhere we go with Daphne since it can accommodate all her baby stuff, even during coffee meet ups. I like how it gives more than enough space to carry my belongings. So dear Tory Burch, in case I don't receive you by June, for sure I'm still gonna get you. One bag each year. :-)

Pandora charm bracelet

Well, I just signed up as a member very recently. Ha ha! Here's my ideal piece. Isn't it lovely? Price is not practical if you purchase it here, so I'm hoping a friend can get it for me in the US.  If ever I decide to get one here in Manila, that is because I never really had a charm bracelet ever since. Looking forward to owning one that I can keep for years until my daughter can wear it herself. The charms I picked best describes me and my top favorites. 

White iPad Mini 16gig

Seriously, who doesn't want a new gadget? I stopped playing Candy Crush but still in to Instagram and other  Apple apps. It would be nice if I can blog from here too. Besides, Daphne and I can share at night so she can play with her Pororo flashcards. 

Photos borrowed from respective websites. 

Again, these are just my funny wishes. Who knows, it may come true one day! Let the count down begin! *teehee*

xx,
OneGutsyMom

My Longest Week

Last week was the longest week I had this quarter. So many things have happened within the circle. One for instance, the "spark" faded like a thin smoke which made me wonder if there is something more I should look forward to. Or if I needed to take the back seat before going further without hesitations. Another one is about health goal setting and reducing risks and issues. You may have encountered this as a green joke - "Katawan lang ang puhunan" but I think it should be taken seriously, especially for family providers. Consider yourself lucky if you are receiving the best health package. I really hope to remain positive against the odds. It's been a challenging week.

To lift up my very low spirit last week, hubby and I went out for a little shopping spree. I did not buy anything for myself that day but it made me so happy having an advance Father's Day present for hubby and gave me blushing cheeks when I came in to Pois Belly and Kids. Check out their latest kids' collections below. Just to share a bit of an info, Pois is for tweens, Belly for expecting Mommies and Kids or Great Kids for kids and toddlers.

They were all cute and pretty and price are very reasonable too. Roughly Php1K for a pair of top and shorts. I would actually pick everything displayed on top, if hubby allows me to. For now, I'd say this is the place to be for your little girl's outfit needs. Will be back very soon before our family photo shoot project.

Look at their fancy paper bag. Back in college, I used to collect paper bags from the stores we shopped and this became an ongoing habit. Don't ask me why I keep most of them, that's my way of reusing/recycling. Ha ha! To date, this is my favourite paper bag from all the kid's shops we've been to. I want something similar for a new blog design. Speaking of, I just renewed my domain few days ago, so that means OneGutsyMom.com is about to celebrate its first anniversary. Must cook something for my lovely readers. :-)

We also got the chance to try Army Navy Burger + Burrito. I've been meaning to try this for the longest time! There's a nearer branch from home which is along Shaw Blvd. but it never happened. The hubby liked it much, caught him non-stop pouring mustard. Here's what we ordered:

• Classic Burger for Php165 each 
• Added extra egg Php17 (him) and cheese for Php30 (her). 
• Large Libertea Iced tea for Php75 and Soda in can Php50. 
• Freedom Fries (not on photo) for Php75

I don't think it's a juicy burger, I find it quite dry but tasty which is good for me. It is not overwhelming either (perhaps the Double Burger is) so I was able to finish the whole of it. Fries were really crunchy which were thin-sliced. I should try their Burrito next visit before I can say mission is accomplished. :-)

How was your week Mothers? Tell me about it.

xx,

OneGutsyMom

Cafè Publico

Me and my friends Mia and Yen organised a late lunch meet up at Greenhills while everyone's closely monitoring the National Election results. The last time I went to my voting precint in Rizal was about 9 years ago and since then I opted not to participate anymore. Well maybe when I transfer registration here in Mandaluyong. My two amigas voted that day before 6pm and it seems hassle-free going there when almost everyone are done casting votes. 

Anyhoo, while we're at the Promenade area, we have no idea where to dine even with a number of options. We checked Cafe Publico out of curiosity and because I've read a lot of good reviews about their gelatos . We didn't come here for desserts though.

There were tables available inside but still we chose the al fresco area. It poured a little bit so weather is quite okay. Each of us were handed with this wide wood type menu and while Mia and I were checking it, Yen started to play with the rocking chair. The waiter must have wondered why we were laughing out loud when he came with our chilled bottle of water.

 

Nachos with cheese and Pomodoro sauces Php195

 

This was our first order and I think we all liked it somehow. Nachos were the regular crunchy ones but cheese dip on the left is the best I've tasted by far. Nothing significant about the Pomodoro sauce though, I can actually say a jar of Tostitos salsa is way better. But overall, this is an upgraded version of nachos compared to the usual ones served in bars. 

Mushroom and Truffle cream spaghetti Php310

 

I liked the way they presented it and the three of us had a fair share of bread stick. He he! We were kind of disappointed though because we picked the most expensive on the list but there's this smell or taste that spoiled the whole pasta experience. Not sure if it's due to the mushroom type they used. I eat mushrooms and it surely doesn't have to taste that way. It felt like we just need to finish our pasta because we are going to pay for it anyway. Tsk! But I'm not giving up on Cafe Publico, next visit I'll surely try other pasta and gelatos. 

On a lighter side, just like our usual yet seldom dates with fellow amigas, we surely enjoyed the whole afternoon talking about love, life, family matters plus the trending "dirty finger day" on all social media platforms. We had coffee afterwards to continue our daldalan. This also served as our simple farewell party for Mia who is soon moving to another continent. Awww... It should have been a bigger group that day, but oh well, it's difficult to match schedules. May the good Lord bless all your plans in life, mare.. It's really worth the wait. xx

CAFE PUBLICO

2/F Greenhills Shopping Center, Promenade,

Greenhills, San Juan MM

Click here for more of our photos! ^^

Mother's Day 2013

We had a fun and happy Mother's Day celebration in Mall of Asia last Sunday. I was actually hesitant to go there knowing that it requires a lot of walking from one building to another. We realized we haven't taken Mom there yet so off we go for a fully loaded lunch at Yakimix. Since we had a good first-hand experience in Yakimix Trinoma years back, we knew that value for money is assured here. 

 

The Mall of Asia branch was jam-packed because of the occasion and we were 12th on the waiting list. Al fresco area is available but really not a good idea for a humid day. No choice, we were so hungry so we settled. Besides, we want a Japanese buffet for today! *teehee* Too bad I didn't take much photos, it's really difficult to move when it's extremely humid. It would be a better idea to book in advance, at least you won't get caught with a long queue. Nevertheless, it was a fun, fun day for all of us. We finally get to view the MOA Eye and enjoy the Manila Bay sunset.

Thank you Lord for this day and thank you for giving me such a caring and thoughtful Mom. I am still learning all her mothering styles and techniques and hoping someday I'll get there and be as great like her, especially when it comes to home cooked meals. I also admire her for handling finances really well. Before she would always teach me to save even a few pesos whenever I could. I may not be a good student on that part before but as a Mom now, every piece of her teachings mattered to me and have been trying to live with it by heart. She's my best teacher, the most consistent one in all aspects. Love you so much Mama.. Thank you for extending your patience with your makulit but very adorable apo. :-)

Gigi Coffee and Cupcakes

I was invited to try GIGI Coffee and Cupcakes one weekend and didn't have second thoughts since I well know my range when it comes to sweets and desserts. I often go to Eastwood City to meet former colleagues and friends, but this place has gone unnoticed until that weekend. Their shop is located at the Ground Floor of Felina Bldg. which is nearly few steps away from Citibank Bldg. and Watson's Store. I used to work in this area seven years ago and this shop is exactly where Gloria Jeans was formerly located.

Just a bit of store background, GIGI Coffee and Cupcakes is a partnership formed by Gigi Gaerlan, Joey Luna, Dondi Gaite, and Cynthia & Ivy Almario in July 2012. I'm so happy to meet Gigi herself and her husband Patrick with unica hija Erika. Gigi Gaerlan's first business is Gigi's Custaroon, which practically gave her the expertise in this line of business. I haven't tried custaroons yet but they describe it as a combination of smooth and creamy flan topped with a chewy, buttery crust. How I wish they include them in the menu some time soon. 

The Interior:

First thing you will notice is the combination of green, black and white interior which was by the way done by Cynthia & Ivy Almario. I would describe it as simple and elegant. Their objective is to give an outdoor feel but without the heat and the pollution, thus the grass-like carpet and indoor plants. If I'm not mistaken, they used rattan chairs. The entire place is just so relaxing.

The shop is WiFi enabled and look, they also accept credit and debit cards for your purchases!

The shop is somewhat part of the building lobby so tenants and employees regularly pass by. To maximize the allotted space, they also placed coffee tables and chairs on the side. The entire place is quite spacious whereas other common cupcake shops are stand-alone shops or for take out orders only.

The Menu:

They have a good selection of hot and cold coffee blends by Iberica Coffee. Notice that they offer Lemongrass tea and Organic tea bag too. Best of all, one cupcake costs Php40 only and bulk orders entitles you discounts. That is really affordable!

The Food:

They got sandwiches and fruit juices, ideal for employees who take breakfast at work. You may consider this option if you're monitoring carbo intake and not wanting to eat a heavy meal.

Chewy fruit candies

They offer between 15 to 20 different cupcake flavors and they change the variety everyday. That afternoon, available flavors were Sea Salt Chocolate, Raspberry, Green Tea and Chocolate Chip. 

There's also Peppermint and Chocolate.

And the ever bestselling Red Velvet. 

Cheese squares

I tried four different flavors namely Green Tea, Raspberry, Sea Salt Chocolate and Red Velvet and paired it with White Mocha frap. My frap was perfect for a scorching afternoon - so refreshing, with right amount of sweetness and very creamy up to my last sip. I noticed that their cupcakes come in a smaller size which is good because that gives you enough space to try more flavors. I also find it slightly sweet (sugar level probably intensified because of my mocha frap), and their cupcakes have a consistent moist in each flavor. In fact, the cake itself is already delicious even without the frosting. The cupcake's shelf life is roughly 4 to 5 days and best stored in room temperature. 

So far, my top two favorites were Sea Salt and Green Tea. I love cupcakes with distinct flavors in each, one serves as a neutralizer to the sweetness. If you're not much into drinking green tea then I suggest you choose another flavor because the leafy aftertaste might be a bit strong for you. Sea salt, on the other hand, reminds me of tuyo and champorado. If you understand how well they go together then Sea Salt cupcake is a must-try.

Overall, I am impressed with their cupcakes and how they put effort from baking to packaging. As early as now, I'm considering them for a friend's baby shower later next month. GIGI Coffee and Cupcakes has one branch at the moment and is planning to expand soon in Shangri La Mall and Fort BGC. To get the latest updates and promotions, visit their official Facebook page.

GIGI Coffee and Cupcakes
Felina Corporate Plaza Lobby, Eastwood City,
1110 Quezon City, Philippines
(02) 234 2842

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Thank you so much for inviting us and for sharing the success story of your business.

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Here's My Take..

Have you ever thought if there's no such thing called "Mother" in this world? Perhaps, a grade school, a teenager or even a young professional might answer that it's OKAY because no one's going bug them to review class lectures every schools days, no one's going to force them to finish their food or to eat veggies, no ones going to call them baby in front of their friends, no one's going to sms them from time to time when they're out clubbing or no one's going to contradict when you're in a relationship with someone she didn't like. As selfish as it sounds, we may, at some point in our lives, have experienced these and we will never know how painful it is to endure unless tables have turned.

Once upon a time, I was a brat who demands to live according to what I want. What I believe is that I'm always alone and no one understands. I know, it's something no one can be proud of and how I truly wish to erase all the chaos in the past. Maybe not just erase but reformat everything, totally. But regret is just a waste of time and all we need is to move forward positively. 

So if you think you were like me years ago, here's my two cents. I encourage you to be thankful for all the good things around you and life will surely be kind. I've learned that if you deal things with a lighter heart, loving back those people who cares for you, especially the one who took all the risk to bring you on Earth, is not even an ounce impossible. Find time to reflect, start at your own pace and  take a gradual leap. You'll realize (or even be ashamed) why you wasted time to take the maze when your Moms clearly led you to a straight path even from the start. There is certainly a good life with your future family awaiting for you.

Happy Mother's Day to you and your lovely Moms!

From the woman behind this blog who has experienced life's greatest miracle.

 

Bizu Patisserie

After a week-long of catching up with crazy deadlines at work, I finally gave in for a short afternoon me-time at Bizu Patisserie. Originally, the plan is to pick from their tasteful bestselling selection of Macarons de Paris and pair it with hot tea. The idea is just so relaxing - sipping a cupful of one of the finest teas, indulging delicious macarons and not minding anything but these. I was ushered by their staff and excitedly (but thoroughly) did a run through of their menu. From breakfast meals to afternoon tea set or choose from beef/pork/lamb meat to desserts ala minute, you name it and they got it!

 

So here's what I had for my lovely afternoon. While waiting for my food, I was served with a complimentary basket of toasted wheat and butter. I recall the exact taste from the bread service we had in The Sweetest Thing event we attended not so long ago. 

{ Earl Grey Supereur Loose Leaf Tea from France Php185/pot }

I was torn between Rose Petal and Earl Grey tea but settled for the latter because I somehow missed its distinct aroma and citrus-y taste. Earl Grey Supereur, according to their website, is a non-smoked black tea with hints of bergamot, lime, bitter orange, lemon peels and cornflower.

{ Blueberry French Toast Php325 }

It took me a while to order my Blueberry French Toast because I'm more of a pancake and waffle person. What helped me decide was this cooking show I've seen last weekend which prepared homemade toasts with  fresh fruit toppings. This is my first time to order French toast and it exceeded my expectations having it first tried at Bizu. I relished each bite of my toast, thinking how much time it took them to soak it with beaten eggs. And the luscious blueberries, how I wish we can grow them here in our country. Blueberry French toast is part of their breakfast meal, but honestly, it can also pass as a dessert for me. 

What a lovely afternoon view in this feminine slash Victorian inspired interior. It can get a bit noisy inside though. Tables are really close from each other so there's no chance for discreet conversations. I also find the menu a bit pricey but since my blueberries were definitely authentic, then perhaps that gives justice to the added VAT and service charge on top of my bill. Should you wish to grab your Mom and girl friends once in a while for a sort of  "virtual" tea party in Paris, then this is the perfect spot you must visit. 

Bizu Patisserie & Bistro

Greenhills Shopping Center,

Promenade, Service Rd.

San Juan, Metro Manila

(02) 724-2498

Moms’ Day Serenades at the Power Plant Mall

Treat that special woman in your life – Mom, of course – on Sunday evening, this May 12 on Mother’s Day with classy and sweet Mother’s Day concerts at the Rockwell Power Plant Mall.

The renowned and innovative ABS-CBN Philharmonic Orchestra, under the baton of Maestro Gerard Salonga, will perform their “Feel Harmonic” concert at the Concourse level at 7pm. Besides songs paying tribute to Mom on her special day, creative symphonies and renditions of classical music will delight her as well, as you treat her to dinner at any of the dining establishments at the Concourse level.

You can also choose an outdoor setting by dining along Lopez Drive. The Manila String Machine Quartet will treat shoppers to sweet ballads and love songs from A-Z, also at 7pm. You’ll be thrilled with the sweet versions of pop, jazz and rock & roll favorites played on violin, viola and cello.

The heart of fashionable Manila shows its big heart for Mom this Mother's Day. Catch these concerts at the Power Plant Mall and make Mom smile. For more information, visit  www.facebook.com/PowerPlantMall or call 898-1702.

This is an advertorial post. 

Wham! Burgers

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We all remember how we raved about different burger joints few years ago. In fact, Wham! Burgers was one of them. I first tried Wham! Burgers in their Katipunan branch. However, no matter how much I liked their burger patties, if there's no enough tables and chairs for a group of hungry customers, might as well check another place to eat within the vicinity, right?