Monday, October 25, 2010
Monthly Potluck - Bar Food
For the last few months, some friends and I have been doing a potluck every month at our friend Jeff's house, each with a different theme. The idea is to have everyone attending to cook different dishes for the particular theme. We've done Mexican, Italian, Mediterranean, Barbeque, and other themes i can't seem to remember. This month, the theme is "Bar Food."
On the menu:
Jeff - Sheppard's Pie, Chocolate cheesecake, Deep fried 'smores
Chewy - Baked onion rings with Panko, 3-cheese Mac & Cheese
Jerome - Hot wings
Larry - Creamy Spinach Dip
Me - Sisig (a Filipino dish made with chopped up roasted pork belly with onions, jalapenos, lemon and soy sauce)
GZ
Thursday, October 21, 2010
Philippines Day 13
Last day in the philippines went pretty smoothly, aside from having no power for most of the day. We went and checked out a house that my dad liked, and to be honest, I kind of liked it. It reminded me of our old house in Novaliches, but bigger and prettier. The neighborhood had the same feel though. I just wish that it was closer to the beach. That's my only complaint.
Afterwards, we went to my uncle's house for a goodbye lunch. I just wish I had remembered to bring my big camera to take some nice images, but alas, I forgot it at the hotel, and it was still raining. I really need to upgrade to a camera and lens setup that's weather sealed. Christmas present anyone??
Then we went back to the hotel to start packing. We had to leave at 6pm to make sure we made it to the airport with enough time to check in for our 12:30am flight to Korea. We spent some time packing and talking to Kuya Ramil, who stuck around to see us off.
One of the coolest things about this trip is getting to meet all these cousins I had never met before. The last one is the person who ended up driving us to the hotel. A cousin on the Colle side of the family–Rey. Who made sure we got to the airport just fine.
The craziest thing happened at Manila airport. When you walk in from your drop-off point, you got through an initial security screening, and you go through another screening before you enter the main terminal with the gates. When we got there, they had stopped a guy who had forgotten he had a pistol in his carry on. That's right, a freaking gun!! What boggled me is how in the hell did her get it through the first security screening?? Ah well, it was caught, and the gun was left behind. The person seemed genuinely embarrassed and afraid for his mistake.
It was a nice flight to Korea. I ended up sitting beside some members of the Masonic Lodge. They had gone for a week in the Philippines for a Masonic Lodge convention. Unbeknownst to me, the Masonic Lodge has one of the largest orders in the world. They told me that I should consider joining because of all the perks. Meh, we'll see. They were all headed to Illinois. Making friends are awesome.
After this is a 14 hour flight to Dallas. Home. My own bed. My car. My life as I now know it. This past 2 weeks has been incredible. It was such a great experience and even greater because I was with my brother and my dad. A great start to a new blog too. I'll be posting as I get into some food adventure, trip, or if I just feel like it. Thanks to everyone who is reading this for keeping up with me. Until next time.
GZ
Wednesday, October 20, 2010
Philippines Day 12 plus video
Our second to last day here in the Philippines. Its been difficult taking the Canon out because of the rain. There has been a typhoon passing the northern part of Luzon (which is the northern main island of the Philippine archipelago). So there hasn't been any photos of worth the past few days. I don't want to mess up the camera, and the humidity fogs up the lens so bad that any photo I take comes out hazy. So videos it is! =)
I'm really sad knowing I have to leave this place and get back to the real world back home in Texas. I'm going to have a lot of work ahead of me catching up at work. I hope I get enough rest and get readjusted to the time so I can make it through the week next week. I'm getting anxious and a little nervous. One good thing I'm looking forward to is getting to drive Samantha again. That's what I named my car, by the way. I know, I know, its kind of corny, but that's who I am. One thing is for sure, I am definitely NOT going to complain about traffic in Dallas after being in Philippines. =)
We finished off shopping today at SM San Fernando. I was out of cash, but luckily, they accept American Express at the department store. I got some nice goodies to take home for some folks. We had lunch at my absolute favorite place as a kid growing up in the Philippines. Well, its practically every Filipino kid's favorite place–Jollibee!!! Jollibee is a Filipino fast food chain, serving fast food versions of classic Filipino food like pancit, palabok, and then some. I had Spaghetti with a piece of Chicken Joy, which is fried chicken. I remember having birthday parties at Jollibee when I was a kid, so its always a treat for me as an adult to eat there when I come to the Philippines. I hear that they have a Jollibee in California somewhere. That might just get added to the road trip list.
After getting back to the hotel, our Tito Arnold came by to drop off some things to take home for my mom and for his sister, Tita Len, who is in San Antonio. I got to meet his children and grandchild. Its always nice meeting family members, no matter how distant we are. Each family member that we meet presents a story about how we are all connected to each family. So in my mind, our family is alive and growing.
If I had to sum up this trip home, there were three things I really enjoyed the most. First, it has to be watching my dad be a teenager again during his high school reunion. I love it when I see my dad enjoying himself and be so excited about seeing old friends, and also being himself. It's like watching someone rediscovering how to laugh and smile all over again.
Second, I will always treasure our little side trip to Boracay Island. Getting to do that with my dad and brother is great in so many ways. I love hearing stories and just getting to be with the boys. We haven't bonded like that in a very long time. So it was a delight to be around both of them, and we not once did we want to bite each other's heads off. =)
Finally, I got to learn some history about my dad's side of the family. I practically grew up with my mom's side of the family, and the time we spent with my dad's side was really limited when we lived here. So I have to say that I really didn't know the history of my dad's side of the family, the family whose last name I carry. What I learned is that every family has their own dynamics. May it be a functional or a dysfunctional dynamic, we have to accept and learn from each other, and hope that each member of the family learn how important it is to contribute something of worth for our family's sake.
At the end of the day, someone's self worth is all we have. No amount of material belongings matter. What matters is how we perceive ourselves. Have we been a success? Have we been a failure? Have we made a difference? Have we lived a good life? Have we made a good name for us? Have we done all the things we can do for our children to make sure they can survive in this world and continue the family traditions we hold near and dear to our hearts?
Its been an amazing trip, and I will look back at this as the best time I've ever had. Its been very educational and I've learned more about myself than ever. We have one more day, and I'm gonna enjoy every minute of it.
GZ
Monday, October 18, 2010
Philippines Day 11 & video
As we wind down our trip back home, of course, there's a few thing we have to go do. Souvenir shopping. I honestly hate shopping, in any country, more particularly during the holidays. Holiday shopping doesn't really start in the US until around November or so, but here in the Philippines, apparently, it starts in September.
Don't get me wrong, I love the holidays, but ever since I worked retail during the holiday season, I have grown to despise Christmas music. When you listen to anything nonstop, it gets to be tiring. It didn't ruin the Holidays for me though, as long as I don't listen to Christmas music during the holidays, I'm good until all the Christmas parties.
We went to SM Mall and Marquee Mall in Angeles City to find souvenirs to take home for our friends. I think I did pretty well and got some items that folks might like. The funniest part of the day was when my brother tried to marry me off again. One of the things I've grown to accept about my brother and dad during our stay here. It doesn't matter who it is, they'll ask. At least they have good taste, and they pick cute girls for e, so I guess it could be worse.
The food was pretty tame today. We went to eat at Gerry's Grill for lunch. I guess its a chain restaurant here in the Philippines. they serve authentic Filipino food. It kinda made me think if it would sell back gone in the US. I don't think Americans are quite familiar with Filipino food. Mostly because they hear about all of the weird things we eat (please see videos when I'm eating frogs, crickets, cow tongue, etc…). What most people don't realize is Filipino food is one of the best food in the world. I'm not just saying that because I grew up with it. I've had Ethiopian food. It's good, but I wouldn't eat it everyday. What I consider good food is the type of food that you can eat everyday, and are friendly to other people's palate.
Filipino food might not be the healthiest food out there because of the saturated fats, sodium, and carbs–pretty much everything that makes food taste really good. [Special note - Watching the Rangers play the Fankees, and Cliff Lee is a freaking' beast!!!] As much unhealthy Filipino food that there are, there is an equivalent amount of healthier options as well. There are plenty of vegetarian and pescatarian dishes here in the Philippines that cater to health conscious individuals. With the many varieties of fruits and veggies that are native here in the Philippines, its quite easy to eat healthy here too.
We also checked out some property for my dad to buy when he retires next year. He plans to stay here during the majority of the year then go back to the US the rest of the time. Nothing too promising, its not the beach house that I expected, but no one really goes into buying property without looking at all the options. So we'll be looking some more.
We were invited to have dinner at our cousin Cathy's home with her family. Her husband, Ryan, took the rest of the day off from campaigning to spend time with us. Since Ryan picked us up from the airport when we first got here, he has not been able to visit with us because of his busy schedule. Cathy cooked and all i have to say is like mother, like daughter. Its nice having parents who knows how to cook and are more than willing to pass down the skills to their kids (love ya dad!).
There is a typhoon coming through the northern part of the Philippines, so the power got knocked out for more than a few hours. Its kind of nostalgic, but inconvenient. No AC in a tropical climate will make anyone miserable.
Afterwards, Ryan took my brother and I out to show us a good time and do a little bonding. Ryan married into our family, but he's adopted out family as his own. He took the time out of his busy schedule to have the opportunity to really get to know his new cousins. I really respect that. We all shared a few buckets of beer, a plate of sushi, and some ostrich stir fry, and………………………..
…….Whoa… what just happened??? lol =)
Sunday, October 17, 2010
Philippines Day 10
It was pretty laid back today. We were supposed to go to Bataan for another side trip with our cousin Cathy, her husband Ryan, and their kids. We weren't able to go because Ryan, who is running for a local office of Barangay Captain, got held up campaigning, and we didn't want to impose and cause him to lose votes because he was out spending time with us. There's always next time.
Instead, we spent some more time at my Tito Chito's house on Nazareno St. There was a lot of eating of course, and I finally got to buy, and eat, some balut. Balut is a Filipino delicacy of fertilized hard-boiled duck egg. Yes, I said fertilized, and yes, there's a chick in there. Watch my brother and I eat one in the video. I've been wanting to film this for a while. All I had been able to show are photos, so it seems posed at times. I think the video will give you the full effect.
It was overall a very relaxing day. I had fun playing with my cousin Cathy's little ones–my nephew, Monday, and nieces,Tuesday and baby Wednesday. I also learned how to gamble, Filipino style. Playing a card game called Pusoy Dos. I'm still learning but it was pretty fun playing and losing someone else's money.
As I was playing with my little nephew and nieces, I started reminiscing the days when we were little and when WE were the ones running around, causing a ruckus while our parents sat and played cards or mahjong. Now, WE are the ones playing cards, and my cousin's kids are the ones causing a ruckus. I was imagining about how I used to look up to my aunt and uncles, and I wondered if that's the way the little ones are seeing my brother and I. It was kind of weird, but kind of cool at the same time.
You know, I'm taking my time to find that girl to settle down with. Even if my dad tries to marry me off to get a discount on souvenirs. But when I hang out with my cousins and play with their kids, sometimes, I kinda want my own to take care of, raise, and play with.
GZ
Instead, we spent some more time at my Tito Chito's house on Nazareno St. There was a lot of eating of course, and I finally got to buy, and eat, some balut. Balut is a Filipino delicacy of fertilized hard-boiled duck egg. Yes, I said fertilized, and yes, there's a chick in there. Watch my brother and I eat one in the video. I've been wanting to film this for a while. All I had been able to show are photos, so it seems posed at times. I think the video will give you the full effect.
It was overall a very relaxing day. I had fun playing with my cousin Cathy's little ones–my nephew, Monday, and nieces,Tuesday and baby Wednesday. I also learned how to gamble, Filipino style. Playing a card game called Pusoy Dos. I'm still learning but it was pretty fun playing and losing someone else's money.
As I was playing with my little nephew and nieces, I started reminiscing the days when we were little and when WE were the ones running around, causing a ruckus while our parents sat and played cards or mahjong. Now, WE are the ones playing cards, and my cousin's kids are the ones causing a ruckus. I was imagining about how I used to look up to my aunt and uncles, and I wondered if that's the way the little ones are seeing my brother and I. It was kind of weird, but kind of cool at the same time.
You know, I'm taking my time to find that girl to settle down with. Even if my dad tries to marry me off to get a discount on souvenirs. But when I hang out with my cousins and play with their kids, sometimes, I kinda want my own to take care of, raise, and play with.
GZ
Day 9 Video
Here's the video for Day 9 in the Philippines. More food of course =)
Some people say that the heart of a home is in the kitchen, and that music the universal language. I believe that food is THE ultimate universal language, and we have a big kitchen.
GZ
Some people say that the heart of a home is in the kitchen, and that music the universal language. I believe that food is THE ultimate universal language, and we have a big kitchen.
GZ
Philippines Day 9
Day 9 Blog
Woke up today to a bitter cold room. I was using my towel as a blanket. My brother finally turned off the AC because he was doing the same thing I was. After we got ready, we got picked up by my aunt and cousins to drive us back to Angeles City. Before we headed off, however, we stopped and did something I have been looking forward to doing the last 11 month.
Last November, my grandmother passed away. My mom's mother. We call her Lola Bun (pronounced "Boon"). Lola Bun was the matriarch of our mom's side of the family. She helped raised my sister, brother and I when our mom worked overseas along with our dad. She was loved by everyone, and she loved her grandchildren even more. When the news came that she had passed, we all were devastated–especially the ones overseas. My parents were able to go back home to the Philippines for the funeral, but us grand children weren't able to.
When I came home in 2005, Lola Bun called for me and my sister, separately, and we said our final goodbye. It hit me pretty hard knowing that it was probably our only opportunity to have that talk. Somehow she knew that it was. Even though she told me it will be ok, and not to worry about her, it was still really difficult for me to not be there at the funeral. Today, before we headed off, we finally made it to her final resting place and paid our respects. It was hard to control my emotions as I have been waiting for this moment for a long time.
After our visit, we headed off to Angeles City. We did stop off at Chow King for a late breakfast of Lomi noodles.
We finally arrived in Angeles City, but before we went to our hotel. We stopped by La Pieta Memorial to visit my dad's parents, sister, brother and our cousin. My grandfather, Lolo Ingo, and grandmother, Lola Pitang, both passed away on October 1st, exactly 10 years apart. I was 4 when Lolo Ingo died, and was already in the US when Lola Pitang passed away. I'm more spiritually connected to my dad's parents. They say that I got Lolo Ingo's artistic talents, and that I have his hands. To me, that's great to know because I didn't really get to know him. Lola Pitang also loved her grandchildren, and couldn't say no to any of us.
After we paid our respects, we were dropped off at our hotel and said goodbye to my aunt and cousins. We rested for a bit, and then got pick up to head off to our next destination–Everybody's Cafe. The one we went to isn't the one Andrew Zimmern of Bizarre Foods went to, but a branch of it. Same food though. Watch the video for more.
Here's some photos from the day.
GZ
Woke up today to a bitter cold room. I was using my towel as a blanket. My brother finally turned off the AC because he was doing the same thing I was. After we got ready, we got picked up by my aunt and cousins to drive us back to Angeles City. Before we headed off, however, we stopped and did something I have been looking forward to doing the last 11 month.
Last November, my grandmother passed away. My mom's mother. We call her Lola Bun (pronounced "Boon"). Lola Bun was the matriarch of our mom's side of the family. She helped raised my sister, brother and I when our mom worked overseas along with our dad. She was loved by everyone, and she loved her grandchildren even more. When the news came that she had passed, we all were devastated–especially the ones overseas. My parents were able to go back home to the Philippines for the funeral, but us grand children weren't able to.
When I came home in 2005, Lola Bun called for me and my sister, separately, and we said our final goodbye. It hit me pretty hard knowing that it was probably our only opportunity to have that talk. Somehow she knew that it was. Even though she told me it will be ok, and not to worry about her, it was still really difficult for me to not be there at the funeral. Today, before we headed off, we finally made it to her final resting place and paid our respects. It was hard to control my emotions as I have been waiting for this moment for a long time.
After our visit, we headed off to Angeles City. We did stop off at Chow King for a late breakfast of Lomi noodles.
We finally arrived in Angeles City, but before we went to our hotel. We stopped by La Pieta Memorial to visit my dad's parents, sister, brother and our cousin. My grandfather, Lolo Ingo, and grandmother, Lola Pitang, both passed away on October 1st, exactly 10 years apart. I was 4 when Lolo Ingo died, and was already in the US when Lola Pitang passed away. I'm more spiritually connected to my dad's parents. They say that I got Lolo Ingo's artistic talents, and that I have his hands. To me, that's great to know because I didn't really get to know him. Lola Pitang also loved her grandchildren, and couldn't say no to any of us.
After we paid our respects, we were dropped off at our hotel and said goodbye to my aunt and cousins. We rested for a bit, and then got pick up to head off to our next destination–Everybody's Cafe. The one we went to isn't the one Andrew Zimmern of Bizarre Foods went to, but a branch of it. Same food though. Watch the video for more.
Here's some photos from the day.
GZ
Friday, October 15, 2010
Days 4 and 5 videos
Here's Day 5's video...
And here's Day 4's video...
Day 6-8 videos are on the way.
GZ
And here's Day 4's video...
Day 6-8 videos are on the way.
GZ
Philippines Day 8 - Last Day in Boracay
You'd think 12 hours of sleep would be sufficient for someone who barely sleeps. Well, by 8 o'clock tonight, I was ready to go to bed again.
The day started off pretty smoothly with our return trip to Manila. No diversions, no delays, it was pretty smooth sailing. Until getting to Manila. Traffic is horrendous! Here I thought that the trip from Kalibo to Caticlan was bad. Sheesh!
The plane ride was ok, aside from the landing which was pretty nerve-wracking. I've never felt a plane drifting while in the process of landing. Drifting in a car is one thing, but drifting in a plane trying to land with people on board is whole other experience.
There are plenty of folks in the Philippines driving motorcycles. They're not Harley Davidson's or anything, but they're small enough and fast enough to get where you are going. They're more like mopeds, really. You know, small enough to fit between buses, trucks, and cars. Also for weaving around traffic, getting on sidewalks, going underneath 18 wheelers during traffic because you REALLY need to get to the other side. Also, they need to be easy to operate because you need one hand to text while you are doing all of the above. Not to mention paying attention to the 2 kids sitting in front of you, and the wife sitting behind you. OH MY GOD!!!!! No guts, no glory, I guess. One thing is for damn sure, I am NEVER going to complain about Dallas rush hour traffic EVER again.
We were picked up by my cousin Kuya Bong ("Kuya" means older brother) and my mom's beautiful sister (i know, i know… I'm trying to get on her good side =) and she is beautiful just like my mom). Afterwards, we all met up with the rest of the bunch in Marikina City at Gerry's Restaurant. We ate some snails, mangoes, and lots of other goodies. The video will have it all soon as I get it edited and uploaded.
I was incredibly excited to see my cousin Mikki. Probably my favorite cousin ever! (No offense to anyone!! I love you guys all the same!) Mikki and my twin were inseparable when we were little, so she's like our triplet. I was surprised to see how my other Godson, Aaron, has grown. Aaron is Kuya Bong's youngest son. At 11 year old, he's almost as tall as I am. Imagine that, the last time I saw him, he was 6, and was very tiny. Man, I'm old.
Oh, I almost forgot to mention that my dad and brother tried to marry me off once more to the receptionist at Kikko's Resort in Boracay. So wrong in many, many ways. First of all they waited until we were leaving to try and hook me up, and second, I actually would have went for it we weren't leaving.. SNOOGANS!
Here's some photos from the day. The sun reflecting off my watch through the plane window.
Ominous cloud formations.
My brother packing for our return to Manila.
My dad watching TV.
My brother flipping me off because I was being a smart ass.
My lovely Tita Gay and my dad ("Tita" means Aunt)
Ate Tess, my Godson, Mark's mom ("Ate" pronounced, Ah-te, means older sister) Isn't she cute?? =)
Videos are slowly but surely being uploaded.
GZ
The day started off pretty smoothly with our return trip to Manila. No diversions, no delays, it was pretty smooth sailing. Until getting to Manila. Traffic is horrendous! Here I thought that the trip from Kalibo to Caticlan was bad. Sheesh!
The plane ride was ok, aside from the landing which was pretty nerve-wracking. I've never felt a plane drifting while in the process of landing. Drifting in a car is one thing, but drifting in a plane trying to land with people on board is whole other experience.
There are plenty of folks in the Philippines driving motorcycles. They're not Harley Davidson's or anything, but they're small enough and fast enough to get where you are going. They're more like mopeds, really. You know, small enough to fit between buses, trucks, and cars. Also for weaving around traffic, getting on sidewalks, going underneath 18 wheelers during traffic because you REALLY need to get to the other side. Also, they need to be easy to operate because you need one hand to text while you are doing all of the above. Not to mention paying attention to the 2 kids sitting in front of you, and the wife sitting behind you. OH MY GOD!!!!! No guts, no glory, I guess. One thing is for damn sure, I am NEVER going to complain about Dallas rush hour traffic EVER again.
We were picked up by my cousin Kuya Bong ("Kuya" means older brother) and my mom's beautiful sister (i know, i know… I'm trying to get on her good side =) and she is beautiful just like my mom). Afterwards, we all met up with the rest of the bunch in Marikina City at Gerry's Restaurant. We ate some snails, mangoes, and lots of other goodies. The video will have it all soon as I get it edited and uploaded.
I was incredibly excited to see my cousin Mikki. Probably my favorite cousin ever! (No offense to anyone!! I love you guys all the same!) Mikki and my twin were inseparable when we were little, so she's like our triplet. I was surprised to see how my other Godson, Aaron, has grown. Aaron is Kuya Bong's youngest son. At 11 year old, he's almost as tall as I am. Imagine that, the last time I saw him, he was 6, and was very tiny. Man, I'm old.
Oh, I almost forgot to mention that my dad and brother tried to marry me off once more to the receptionist at Kikko's Resort in Boracay. So wrong in many, many ways. First of all they waited until we were leaving to try and hook me up, and second, I actually would have went for it we weren't leaving.. SNOOGANS!
Here's some photos from the day. The sun reflecting off my watch through the plane window.
Ominous cloud formations.
My brother packing for our return to Manila.
My dad watching TV.
My brother flipping me off because I was being a smart ass.
My lovely Tita Gay and my dad ("Tita" means Aunt)
Ate Tess, my Godson, Mark's mom ("Ate" pronounced, Ah-te, means older sister) Isn't she cute?? =)
Videos are slowly but surely being uploaded.GZ
Thursday, October 14, 2010
Philippines Day 7 - Day 3 in Boracay
Just woke up from recovering from a busy 7th day, also our third day here in Boracay. I ended up falling asleep around 5pm, and its now 6am on our 8th day and last day in Boracay. We have to head back to Manila today. I'm sad, but now I know what I'll be missing and I know what I'll be looking forward to when I come back.
So, here's a recap from yesterday. We woke up at 4am so we could meet the guy picking us up at 5am from the lobby to take us to the boat. We finally got there and waited for a little bit for them to get the boat ready. The beach was so peaceful. Listening to the waves break and the tide come in was so relaxing, I can see why people love going to the beach.
We hopped o the boat for 3 hours of fishing. We didn't catch a lot but the experience was worth it. Dad caught a blow fish, and my brother and I caught 7 small fish between the two of us. the boat man caught a red snapper, which was exciting. No rod and reel fishing here, so we used hand lines. Talk about going back to basics.
In the afternoon, we hooked up with another boat man to take us around the island for some snorkeling and lunch on the other side. That was pretty much it. It was great getting to spend some quality time with my dad and my brother. After we got back to the hotel, we all pretty much passed out and didn't wake up until this morning. We're about to have some breakfast and continue packing to head back to Manila. Day 8 will consist of spending time with my mom's side of the family, and visiting my grandmother's final resting place, which is something I've been looking forward to for some time now.
Here's some photos from day 7.
So, here's a recap from yesterday. We woke up at 4am so we could meet the guy picking us up at 5am from the lobby to take us to the boat. We finally got there and waited for a little bit for them to get the boat ready. The beach was so peaceful. Listening to the waves break and the tide come in was so relaxing, I can see why people love going to the beach.
We hopped o the boat for 3 hours of fishing. We didn't catch a lot but the experience was worth it. Dad caught a blow fish, and my brother and I caught 7 small fish between the two of us. the boat man caught a red snapper, which was exciting. No rod and reel fishing here, so we used hand lines. Talk about going back to basics.
In the afternoon, we hooked up with another boat man to take us around the island for some snorkeling and lunch on the other side. That was pretty much it. It was great getting to spend some quality time with my dad and my brother. After we got back to the hotel, we all pretty much passed out and didn't wake up until this morning. We're about to have some breakfast and continue packing to head back to Manila. Day 8 will consist of spending time with my mom's side of the family, and visiting my grandmother's final resting place, which is something I've been looking forward to for some time now.
Here's some photos from day 7.
Wednesday, October 13, 2010
Philippines Day 6 - Day 2 Part 2
It was a full day today. Woke up early and had breakfast, then my dad brother and I headed off to the beach for a walk. We ended back up at the Mexican restaurant my brother and I found our first day here. After we got back to the hotel, my brother and I went for a dip in the pool and the went snorkeling.
Last time I went snorkeling was in Florida. Not much wildlife there, except for the hammerhead shark my cousin and I encountered, and there were weeds every where covering up the sea floor. Snorkeling is much better here at Boracay. The water is clear and the fish are colorful.
We took a nap afterwards and headed off to dinner at D' Mall, or "the Mall." All you can eat buffet for 300 pesos ($7.00 per person). A little cheaper from what it is back home, but you get grilled oysters and clams, so its quite a good deal.
We went walking around D' Mall after dinner to buy some souvenirs. My dad and brother tried to marry me off to the lady at the store so they could get a discount. To be honest, it would have been ok if it weren't for the fact that the lady was married and her name is the same as my mom's. She has been away from her husband for 3 years so she said it was ok if it was only for one night. So, I took her up on it…. lol just kidding.
We're gonna call it an early night because we have a 4am wake up call for our fishing trip, and then a 3 hour island hopping tour. I'm looking forward to meeting Mr. Howell and Mary Anne… maybe the Professor and Gilligan, if they're available.
Anywho, we have spotty internet connect here and I'm I have not been able to post any photos or videos. I'll post them as soon as I am able to.
GZ
PS... here's the photos... finally... =)
Last time I went snorkeling was in Florida. Not much wildlife there, except for the hammerhead shark my cousin and I encountered, and there were weeds every where covering up the sea floor. Snorkeling is much better here at Boracay. The water is clear and the fish are colorful.
We took a nap afterwards and headed off to dinner at D' Mall, or "the Mall." All you can eat buffet for 300 pesos ($7.00 per person). A little cheaper from what it is back home, but you get grilled oysters and clams, so its quite a good deal.
We went walking around D' Mall after dinner to buy some souvenirs. My dad and brother tried to marry me off to the lady at the store so they could get a discount. To be honest, it would have been ok if it weren't for the fact that the lady was married and her name is the same as my mom's. She has been away from her husband for 3 years so she said it was ok if it was only for one night. So, I took her up on it…. lol just kidding.
We're gonna call it an early night because we have a 4am wake up call for our fishing trip, and then a 3 hour island hopping tour. I'm looking forward to meeting Mr. Howell and Mary Anne… maybe the Professor and Gilligan, if they're available.
Anywho, we have spotty internet connect here and I'm I have not been able to post any photos or videos. I'll post them as soon as I am able to.
GZ
PS... here's the photos... finally... =)
Philippines Day 6 - Day 2 in Boracay
This is the first time in a long time that I have been able to sleep well, and according to my dad and brother, I wasn't even snoring. Imagine that. =)
Last night my dad, brother and I headed off into town to a place called D Talipapa for dinner. D Talipapa is the town market where you can get fresh seafood, veggies, among other things. The best part after you buy your items, you can take it to a small store front restaurant and have them cook it for you. We bought a kilo of crabs and shrimp. We had the shrimp cooked in a lemon garlic sauce, and the crabs cooked in a sweet spicy sauce. I was so hungry and sleepy that I forgot to take photos and videos of it. Oh well, we're going back there, I'll get photos and videos of it then.
We're headed to the beach this morning to walk around and take a dip. I"m leaving the Canon in the hotel. Its not weather sealed and I don't want to damage it. I'll bring the Kodak Playsport instead. It takes ok photos and its waterproof, so it will have to do.
Last night my dad, brother and I headed off into town to a place called D Talipapa for dinner. D Talipapa is the town market where you can get fresh seafood, veggies, among other things. The best part after you buy your items, you can take it to a small store front restaurant and have them cook it for you. We bought a kilo of crabs and shrimp. We had the shrimp cooked in a lemon garlic sauce, and the crabs cooked in a sweet spicy sauce. I was so hungry and sleepy that I forgot to take photos and videos of it. Oh well, we're going back there, I'll get photos and videos of it then.
We're headed to the beach this morning to walk around and take a dip. I"m leaving the Canon in the hotel. Its not weather sealed and I don't want to damage it. I'll bring the Kodak Playsport instead. It takes ok photos and its waterproof, so it will have to do.
Tuesday, October 12, 2010
Philippines Day 5 - Boracay!!!
Its kind of weird to think that my family had to move to the US just to be able to visit the places I always wanted to go to in the Philippines. Boracay being one of them. Boracay Island is one of the top tourist spots in the Philippines, although its takes a plane ride from either Angeles City, Manila, or Cebu, followed by a ferry ride to the island. Traveling to Boracay can be quite pleasant if all goes to plan. Unfortunately for us, our flight from Angeles City (Clark Air Force Base) to Caticlan was diverted to Kalibo, which is a 2 hour, butt-puckering ride, to the ferries in Caticlan.
The weather was bad in Caticlan and the plane had to be diverted to Kalibo because the runway was longer, which enabled the pilot to land us safer on a wet runway. The shuttles were notified and headed off to pick us up at the Kalibo Airport. The way to Caticlan was quite interesting. Going through windy roads through the mountains, narrowly missing pedestrians and on-coming traffic, somehow, we made it to our destination safe.
After arriving at Caticlan's ferry port, we were escorted to the loading point to the ferry, which is a fast craft boat to take us to Boracay. Unfortunately, the fast craft boats were way behind schedules so we were redirected to large banka boats. Imagine a big canoe with outriggers that chopped through the water, turning a 5 minute fast craft ride to a 15 minute open water adventure. we had to board the boat using a wooden plank about 10 feet long with a loose hand rail on one side and open on the other. As scary as that whole experience was, I think I was more concerned about my equipment falling into the water (cameras, laptop, etc…). I would have taken photos and videos of us boarding the boat, but I chose to concentrate on the task at hand instead.
We made it safe to our destination eventually, but the journey here is definitely an experience my dad, brother and I will talk about for years to come.
Here's some photos of the travel, and some quick snapshots I took when my big bro and I took a stroll on the beach. I got bored at the hotel so I photoshopped them.
Clark Airforce Base at dawn...
Boarding the plane, Mt. Arayat in the background...
A few couple of shots during the drive to Calictan...
Altar of the Virgin Mary on the beach...
GZ
The weather was bad in Caticlan and the plane had to be diverted to Kalibo because the runway was longer, which enabled the pilot to land us safer on a wet runway. The shuttles were notified and headed off to pick us up at the Kalibo Airport. The way to Caticlan was quite interesting. Going through windy roads through the mountains, narrowly missing pedestrians and on-coming traffic, somehow, we made it to our destination safe.
After arriving at Caticlan's ferry port, we were escorted to the loading point to the ferry, which is a fast craft boat to take us to Boracay. Unfortunately, the fast craft boats were way behind schedules so we were redirected to large banka boats. Imagine a big canoe with outriggers that chopped through the water, turning a 5 minute fast craft ride to a 15 minute open water adventure. we had to board the boat using a wooden plank about 10 feet long with a loose hand rail on one side and open on the other. As scary as that whole experience was, I think I was more concerned about my equipment falling into the water (cameras, laptop, etc…). I would have taken photos and videos of us boarding the boat, but I chose to concentrate on the task at hand instead.
We made it safe to our destination eventually, but the journey here is definitely an experience my dad, brother and I will talk about for years to come.
Here's some photos of the travel, and some quick snapshots I took when my big bro and I took a stroll on the beach. I got bored at the hotel so I photoshopped them.
Clark Airforce Base at dawn...
Boarding the plane, Mt. Arayat in the background...
A few couple of shots during the drive to Calictan...
Altar of the Virgin Mary on the beach...
GZ
Monday, October 11, 2010
Philippines Day 4 - Ka Vibes 65 45th HS Reunion
Today is my dad's 45th high school reunion. "Ka Vibes" is a term they use to describe their class. The literal meaning is "Same Vibe" describing how all of them are on the same page as far as attitude toward life in general. There are a wide range of backgrounds with my dad's class. From house wives and house husbands to army generals and presidential cabinet members.
Being around this group allowed me to see a major cultural difference between high school reunions in the US and in the Philippines. Most people in the US, by my observation, dread going back for their 10 year, or whatever year, reunion. People here, at least in my dad's class, EVERYONE looks forward to their reunion.
It just seems like they genuinely like everyone they went to school with. The only people who didn't make the reunion are either unable to due to health issues, or they've passed away. I attended my 10 year reunion last year, and most people I spoke to who weren't there, which was over half the class, said that they didn't want to because they didn't like most of the people they went to school with, or they just flat out didn't care.
To be honest, I was kind of dreading shooting my dad's reunion–for a few reasons. My brother and cousins were going to go have fun while I work, and, well, yeah…that's the only reason. I want to have fun! You can't blame me for that!!! But, I am glad I went because it was great seeing my dad in that light.
My dad always talks about how much fun he has during reunions. He always comes back with stories of what they did and the craziness that ensues at these functions. I'm glad to have experienced it first hand.
I can see why too. There were no jealousy, no one talking behind other people's back, there were no trying to out do each other as far as occupation and current living status. They care about each other so much that they've started a foundation to collect money for each others kids' education, or even funds to send their less fortunate classmates to the reunion.
Here's a few of the photos I took during my dad's event...
We had mass to begin the day's festivities. This is a view of the altar of the church located at Holy Angel University, my dad's school.
...and here's a side view from outside.
I'm not hiding any misconceptions about Asians and their picture taking stigma. This took almost an HOUR after mass ended. lol
When I was looking through photos to post, I kept noticing how happy my dad looked. I kept imagining him when he was younger because it seemed as though he was in high school again. That made me happy. =)
KA VIBES!!!
...and the spread, and NO, Raymon, yeah you! That is NOT the future Mrs. Glenn Zamora in the background... she was busy working the event and I didn't get to take a photo! lol jk ... or am I?
This last photo is just a sample of the craziness they get into. Although my dad told me that they had to tame it down this year because they invited the old priest they had while they were in school to the reunion. Also, one of their classmates is a nun. Holy Angel University is a Catholic school, by the way. The photo is of a game called musical chairs–I'm sure you guys are familiar with that, but instead of chairs, the women had to sit on the men's laps... oh the hilarity!!
Video to come soon.
GZ
Being around this group allowed me to see a major cultural difference between high school reunions in the US and in the Philippines. Most people in the US, by my observation, dread going back for their 10 year, or whatever year, reunion. People here, at least in my dad's class, EVERYONE looks forward to their reunion.
It just seems like they genuinely like everyone they went to school with. The only people who didn't make the reunion are either unable to due to health issues, or they've passed away. I attended my 10 year reunion last year, and most people I spoke to who weren't there, which was over half the class, said that they didn't want to because they didn't like most of the people they went to school with, or they just flat out didn't care.
To be honest, I was kind of dreading shooting my dad's reunion–for a few reasons. My brother and cousins were going to go have fun while I work, and, well, yeah…that's the only reason. I want to have fun! You can't blame me for that!!! But, I am glad I went because it was great seeing my dad in that light.
My dad always talks about how much fun he has during reunions. He always comes back with stories of what they did and the craziness that ensues at these functions. I'm glad to have experienced it first hand.
I can see why too. There were no jealousy, no one talking behind other people's back, there were no trying to out do each other as far as occupation and current living status. They care about each other so much that they've started a foundation to collect money for each others kids' education, or even funds to send their less fortunate classmates to the reunion.
Here's a few of the photos I took during my dad's event...
We had mass to begin the day's festivities. This is a view of the altar of the church located at Holy Angel University, my dad's school.
...and here's a side view from outside.
I'm not hiding any misconceptions about Asians and their picture taking stigma. This took almost an HOUR after mass ended. lol
When I was looking through photos to post, I kept noticing how happy my dad looked. I kept imagining him when he was younger because it seemed as though he was in high school again. That made me happy. =)
KA VIBES!!!
...and the spread, and NO, Raymon, yeah you! That is NOT the future Mrs. Glenn Zamora in the background... she was busy working the event and I didn't get to take a photo! lol jk ... or am I?
This last photo is just a sample of the craziness they get into. Although my dad told me that they had to tame it down this year because they invited the old priest they had while they were in school to the reunion. Also, one of their classmates is a nun. Holy Angel University is a Catholic school, by the way. The photo is of a game called musical chairs–I'm sure you guys are familiar with that, but instead of chairs, the women had to sit on the men's laps... oh the hilarity!!
Video to come soon.
GZ
Sunday, October 10, 2010
Philippines Day 3 - Fiesta La Naval
Sorry for not posting last night, but I was extremely tired and passed out soon as we got to the hotel room. Too much fun, eating and drinking got to me.
Yesterday we celebrated the Fiesta of La Naval. (The following paragraphs are taken from MB.com) Fiesta La Naval is a celebration commemorating the victory of the poorly armed and greatly outnumbered Spanish-Filipino forces against the powerful Dutch fleet off of Bataan in 1646. The Dutch were said to be after the riches of the Philippine archipelago, and to replace Catholicism with Dutch Protestant Calvinism. Victory was attributed to the prayer of the Rosary to our Holy Mother before each battle. According to accounts, only 15 defenders of the island died in all 5 of the bloody naval battles, after which the Dutch miraculously retreated, never to return.
After a thorough deliberation and examination by the Ecclesiastical Committee in Cavite made up of doctors of theology and canonical experts, the naval victories were declared on April 9, 1662 as "miraculous, granted by the Sovereign Lord through the intercession of the Most Holy Virgin and devotion to her rosary."
The committee then mandated that "the miracles be celebrated, preached and held in festivities and to be recounted among the miracles wrought by the Lady of the Rosary for the greater devotion of the faithful to Our Most Blessed Virgin Mary and her holy rosary."
The first celebration of the Feast of Our Lady of La Naval was held on October 8, 1646 in Manila.
In 1981, the late Pope John Paul II dedicated the country and the whole of Asia to the Blessed Mother: "I entrust the destiny of the Philippines and of all Asia to Mary, Queen of the Rosary with the title of La Naval."
Since then, Filipinos celebrates the victory through the first and last of October, with parades, food, and prayers at the church. Here are the photos from our celebration in the Zamora household.
Lechon.
The best part are the ears, tail, and skin. Served in a liver gravy. Yum-O
A dish called Pastel. My aunt and uncle once again taught me how to make this. =)
My Brother and our cousin Ate Amy.
A plate of lechon.
My beautiful cousin Ate Amy.
...and her extremely shy kids.
My little nephew RK.
The spread.
My plate.... Jesus Cristo! That was ridonculous!
More to come! GZ
Here's the video.
Yesterday we celebrated the Fiesta of La Naval. (The following paragraphs are taken from MB.com) Fiesta La Naval is a celebration commemorating the victory of the poorly armed and greatly outnumbered Spanish-Filipino forces against the powerful Dutch fleet off of Bataan in 1646. The Dutch were said to be after the riches of the Philippine archipelago, and to replace Catholicism with Dutch Protestant Calvinism. Victory was attributed to the prayer of the Rosary to our Holy Mother before each battle. According to accounts, only 15 defenders of the island died in all 5 of the bloody naval battles, after which the Dutch miraculously retreated, never to return.
After a thorough deliberation and examination by the Ecclesiastical Committee in Cavite made up of doctors of theology and canonical experts, the naval victories were declared on April 9, 1662 as "miraculous, granted by the Sovereign Lord through the intercession of the Most Holy Virgin and devotion to her rosary."
The committee then mandated that "the miracles be celebrated, preached and held in festivities and to be recounted among the miracles wrought by the Lady of the Rosary for the greater devotion of the faithful to Our Most Blessed Virgin Mary and her holy rosary."
The first celebration of the Feast of Our Lady of La Naval was held on October 8, 1646 in Manila.
In 1981, the late Pope John Paul II dedicated the country and the whole of Asia to the Blessed Mother: "I entrust the destiny of the Philippines and of all Asia to Mary, Queen of the Rosary with the title of La Naval."
Since then, Filipinos celebrates the victory through the first and last of October, with parades, food, and prayers at the church. Here are the photos from our celebration in the Zamora household.
Lechon.
The best part are the ears, tail, and skin. Served in a liver gravy. Yum-O
A dish called Pastel. My aunt and uncle once again taught me how to make this. =)
My Brother and our cousin Ate Amy.
A plate of lechon.
My beautiful cousin Ate Amy.
...and her extremely shy kids.
My little nephew RK.
The spread.
My plate.... Jesus Cristo! That was ridonculous!
More to come! GZ
Here's the video.
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