The A and B Lifestyle

Bowling at The Mills

2012-02-01T05:34:00.001-08:00

Bowling is the easiest and enjoyable activities that we always do with our dear friends every wednesday at The Mills. Aside from the friendly competition, we really have lots of fun, laughter and the never ending girly talks.

Nuvali by Night

2012-01-30T00:28:00.001-08:00

Last saturday, we dined with our very good family friend and his sons at Italiannis in Nuvali. Its very near our place and a primarily a small developing community. Its also a sight seeing spot with the rising commercial establishments, restaurants and a man-made lake full of kois. We're really very lucky with our retirement haven which is close to nature and metropolis.

Leila's 2nd Birthday

2012-01-27T16:35:00.000-08:00

My grandaughter Leila Antonella celebrated her second birthday last week. I know my son Andrew missed his youngest daughter very much for he is in Dammam, Saudi Arabia working in a military base hospital there. Just like my other daughter in Canada and other OFW's, they are sacrificing a lot just to give a better lives for their families back home.

Lunch at Army Navy

2012-01-23T17:26:00.000-08:00

Last sunday, we tried for the first time for lunch the Army Navy in Nuvali. In fairness, their burritos and burgers tasted good. In the Ecoliving nearby, the people are very busy preparing the venue as reception for the celebrity wedding that night.

Arianne's Birthday

2012-01-23T16:25:00.000-08:00

My second daughter Arianne celebrated her birthday at Giligans restaurant last January 18. It served as a bonding moment for me and my daughters together with her colleague at work. It was my first time to dined in this reastaurant and aside from the reasonable price, it also tasted good.

Grand Offening of Villas Hub

2012-01-18T17:54:00.000-08:00

Last wednesday before we left for Tacloban City, we attended first the opening of Mary Pauline Salon, The Orange Villas Cafe, Spa and carwash. Its the new business venture of our very good neighbor friends, the Cataneos and Guttierez. The place is very cozy and they offered reasonable prices for their services. They also have a big parking space for customers and the foods offered in their coffeeshop are also great. So if you're living around Southforbes, Ayala Westgrove, Bel-Air and other subdivision near Paseo de Sta Rosa, try the new business hub located just near the gate of Southforbes Villas and its really worth your money.

St. Benedict Church

2012-01-14T17:27:00.001-08:00

I'm now a certified parishioner of St. Benedict Church located near Ayala Westgrove. So much heart has been given to the church design ,very simple and minimalist. Its just a 3 minute drive from our place and its going to be the venue for many a happy occasion including the forthcoming wedding of celebrities Shalani and Cong. Romulo.

Golf at Sherwood Hills

2012-01-14T01:35:00.000-08:00

Last week, Dirk and our neighbor friends played golf at Sherwood Hills located at Trece Martirez in Cavite for a change. They have been playing almost every week at Canlubang and Southforbes Golf course and playing in Sherwood is more of adventure.

Day's Birthday

2012-01-08T07:05:00.001-08:00

A very good friend also celebrated her birthday last Friday. Day as we fondly called her is a picture of happiness with the presence of her loved ones and close friends. The foods was out of the world delicious because of the mother and son tandem in cooking. Day is studying culinary arts while her son works as chef in one of the embassies here in the Philippines.

Honey and Me

2012-01-05T01:38:00.001-08:00

As we stay longer here in the Philippines, the number of our friends are also increasing. So meet Honeymae (in pink dress) the better half of Paul. For her age, she is just like my daughter but we have things in common, our partners are golfers and we share the same birthdate.

Happy New Year to All !!!!

2012-01-01T18:53:00.000-08:00

First of all Happy New Year to All of you, my family, relatives, bloggers, FB friends and dear readers. To spend the remaining day of 2011, we decided to drive to The Mall of Asia last Friday and watch the Uncle Sam's Flying Circus at SMX Convention Center. The circus gave the Filipino audiences a smorgasbord of entertainment as it brings its brand of heart-warming and death-defying spectacles and its really a hit among kids and kids-at-heart. We also browsed along one of the biggest shopping mall in asia and were able to buy discounted toys at Toy Kingdom.

Time to Lose Weight

2011-12-28T20:12:00.000-08:00

Most of us have a tendency to use the holiday season as an excuse to overindulge or to overeat. We have several christmas celebrations and foods are sooo tempting. So now its the time to shed those unwanted kilos gained during the holidays. On our part, we indulge ourselves with some sportive activities, aerobics and Dirk with the use of modern technologies. We also need to be careful with what we eat and hopefully limit our exposure to food temptation.

Zarn's House Blessings

2011-12-27T04:55:00.000-08:00

Last week the house of a very good friend Remy and Thomas was blessed by a priest for safety and good fortune. It was attended by their relatives, friends and neighbors. The house owner also included the customary tossing of coins which is a very Filipino tradition that signifies the shower of blessings and the spirit of sharing luck.

Birthday Pampering

2011-12-19T18:17:00.000-08:00

First of all, A blessed Christmas to Everyone!!!

Its pampering day for Dirk and me last sunday. The weather was sooo bad that we just decided to have massage, foot spa, pedicure/manicure and haircut for Dirk in preparation for his birthday celebration the next day.

Revisiting Tutuban

2011-12-15T04:00:00.001-08:00

For a change, we took a PNR train going to Tutuban together with my friends. Its such a wonderful experience riding a public transport. Its very fast and convenient going there but as always, Divisoria is always full of shoppers from all walks of life. We really enjoyed the trip, the shopping spree but the sad part is seeing those poor peole living near the railroad. I just hope that the government will do something to uplift the living condition of the less fortunate living along that area.

Rose Belle's Birthday

2011-12-11T01:16:00.001-08:00

For the first time my daughter celebrated her birthday away from home. I know how she terribly missed her two young sons but she is strong enough to fight homesickness to give them a better future. For her 30th birthday, she has two celebrations, in our family home in San Pedro and in Canada together with her colleague and friends. To you Neng, belated happy birthday and always remember, we love and missed you so much.

My Daughter as OFW

2011-12-06T02:27:00.000-08:00

Every year, more than a million Filipinos leave our country to work in foreign countries where their services are needed. The OFWs are some of the most preferred workers in the world because of their possitive attitude to their work, specialized skills, their being friendly and acommodating, their willingness to work on extended hours and their ability to speak the English language. My daughter Rose Belle is no exception where she is working in one of the fastfood chain in Canada. She's now adjusting very well to her new environment and newfound friends. She's very happy that there are some restaurants selling filipino foods, a cure for homesickness.

Despite the hazzard and the problems that the OFWs face in their respective work places, they continue to work and serve their employers well, just to be able to send money to their families and loved ones in the Philippines. And for these efforts, they deserve to be called unsung heroes of the Philippines. They are the main reason why our country survived despite global economic crisis.

Her first balikbayan box

Sunday with Friends

2011-12-05T17:32:00.001-08:00

After attending the sunday mass at St. Benedict where the seminarians rendered christmas songs, we decided to try the Southforbes driving range for a change. It was my first try and i find it interesting. Aside from bowling, i'm also going to start practicing my golf swings. We then have a coffee time at home and dinner at Racks Paseo.

Random Pictures

2011-11-30T17:31:00.001-08:00

Just sharing the random pictures of our activities for the past days.

Lunch at canlubang golf restaurant

Aerobics at multi purpose hall

Lunch at Pancake house

Browsing Festival Mall

visited our soon to finish water station and boarding house

Singapore Lucky Plaza

2011-11-27T17:22:00.000-08:00

Located along Orchard Road, Lucky Plaza is the favorite hangout of our kababayans in Singapore. The place is the counterpart of Central Park in Hongkong where Filipinos converge and congregate in and around the vicinity for shopping, pampering, dining, sending balikbayan boxes and money to their loved ones in the Philippines. Its the usual scenario for all overseas workers around the world, the unsung heroes and the main reason for our steady economy.

A Busy Monday

2011-11-22T04:25:00.000-08:00

Its indeed a busy day yesterday, we started at 8 in the morning and ended close to midnight. Its a good feeling because we accomplished a lot of things and bonded with family and friends.

Send off for Kriz family-NAIA Terminal 3

Visited our water station cum Boarding House

Massage at Banahaw Spa

Lunch at Fish and Chips

Alabang Town Center

A short visit with the Sawyer

Dinner with the Zarn at The Racks

Back in Manila

2011-11-19T19:30:00.001-08:00

We're back in the real world after our one week vacation in the paradise island of Boracay. We really enjoyed the beach, the attractions and bonding with other family members.

The first thing we did after arriving is shopping for our food needs, browsing around Festival Mall Alabang and dinner in the Sky at Vivere

The Boracay Waters

2011-11-17T16:41:00.001-08:00

With all the attractions here in Boracay, still the primary reason why local and foreign tourists come here is the beach with its fine sand. Its really a wonderful scene watching families bonding and enjoying the boracay waters

Boracay at its best

2011-11-15T17:20:00.000-08:00

The pictures are living proof why we kept on coming back to this beautiful island of Boracay. It gave us the much needed tranquility because of the beauty of nature. Its very relaxing here and the locals are nice people. Its now the favorite getaway of my kababayans and foreign tourists as well because of the affordable promotional package tours and flight tickets.

Delicious Foods

Pictures and Shoes

2011-11-12T03:59:00.000-08:00

Having a kid at heart, i always wanted to posed with some characters/figures in shopping malls. I'm also fascinated with stilletos but dont have plans on buying or using one in the near future, i prefer comfortable wedges.

Bonding and Pampering

2011-11-09T16:32:00.000-08:00

Dinner at Yna and Jim's place

We have facials again at Skin Ultima

Dirk with our new portable sauna

Honey Glazed Doughnuts in Action

2011-11-06T17:03:00.000-08:00

At my favorite Krispy Kreme store at The Mall of Asia, the customer had a chance to see how they make honey glazed donuts. This store really attracted a lot of doughnuts cravers because of the super delicious taste and i am one of them.

Christmas is in the Air

2011-11-04T20:21:00.001-07:00

Christmas carols and decorations in the malls only means that yuletide season is just around the corner. Dirk and me had fun posing on colorful christmas lanterns and decors at SM santa rosa the other day. We ended up buying a small santa claus which we put in front of our house.

Remembering the Saints and the Souls

2011-11-02T04:54:00.000-07:00

Yesterday is All Saints Day which commemorates all the Saints, known and unknown and today is All Souls Day, a time to remember and pray for departed souls of our loved ones. To avoid chaos which happened on these days, we visited the grave of my mother earlier last week and offered mass not only for her but for all our departed loved ones and friends.

Though its a public holiday, shopping malls are open and we spend the first day of november at SM Santa Rosa buying some household items.

Lunch at chinese restaurant

Mhau's Outreach Program

2011-10-31T19:55:00.001-07:00

Instead of having a grand celebration for her 23rd birthday, my "other" daughter Maureen celebrated her big event at Mary Mother Home for the Elderly and Abandoned in San Pedro, Laguna. With the help of her family and close friends she was able to solicit some donations which is a big help to the institution. Two thumbs up to you Mau and keep up the good work. Momsie is just here to support your charity works.

my daughters Astrid and Buddy assisting the oldies

my donated puto and macaroons was a bíg hit

Beautiful Sunday

2011-10-31T18:48:00.000-07:00

Last sunday, the mass at St. Benedict was again officiated by Fr. Tito Caluag and this time the Dela Salle High School-Dasmarinas choir members served as the church choir. Their angelic voices overwhelmed the whole church and next week its Ateneo's turn. After my sunday religious obligation, we treated ourselves for a sumptuous lunch at The Racks.

Sbarro and Krispy Kreme

2011-10-30T00:17:00.000-07:00

Sbarro italian foods and krispy kreme honey glazed doughnuts became our favorites at Festival mall in Alabang. The tastes are really good and the prices are affordable as well. Next time, we're going to try the Japanese and Mongolian restaurant.

While browsing around Festival Mall, we saw my grandson Kim together with my niece Marivic and her family.

Pampering Day

2011-10-26T17:15:00.000-07:00

After our bowling yesterday, we spontaneously decided to pampered ourselves with facials with diamond peel at Skin Ultima in Paseo. We then eat our favorite halo-halo at Razons together with another close friend, Maribel before calling it a day.

Remembering Nanay

2011-10-24T18:32:00.001-07:00

The All Souls Day will be next week but we already visited the grave of my mother at Everlasting Peace in San Pedro. I know my mother is very happy in heaven together with my father, Papa and all our dead friends and relatives. Nay, we loved you so much and will be forever in our hearts.

Manila Hotel

2011-10-23T19:11:00.000-07:00

Yesterday, we visited The Manila Hotel, the oldest premiere hotel in the Philippines. The last time I've been here was more than 20 years ago during our fund raising program, the Movement to Aid Negros, a project of the late Mayor Ramon Bagatsing. I was surprised that a lot of renovations have been done inside though it doesnt look promising on the outside. The Cafe Ilang-Ilang restaurant was a big hit for non-guests. Its the biggest buffet table i've ever seen and the number of dishes was i think more than thousands.

Festival and Starmall

2011-10-22T19:43:00.000-07:00

Our saturday was spent at Festival and Starmall in Alabang. There was an ongoing bridal show and promo at the mall and its really nice to look at those beautiful wedding gowns and bridal cars. Christmas is just around the corner and these malls are already full of shoppers during weekends.

Cooking Experience

2011-10-21T17:54:00.000-07:00

A life is full of trials, success and failures. Just like in my cooking/baking, i have some shares of failures besides there's no harm in trying. My kuchinta cooking turned out puto and my egg pie is sooo sweet, too much sugar. Next time it will be perfect, i know my mistakes and don't give up easily. In every failures and trials in life, we always learn from it which will be our guide in moving forward.

Nuvali Solenad 2

2011-10-18T17:05:00.001-07:00

Five minutes away from our place is the newly opened Nuvali Solenad 2. There are some high end stores like nine west, aerosole and many more and what i liked more is the soon to open krispy kreme and bread talk. Santa Rosa is ineed the new makati of the south.

Battle of the Bulge

2011-10-17T18:09:00.000-07:00

As we all know the love of my life had lots of unwanted kilos and he's really serious to get rid of this. For the past years he already lose more than 30 kilos and determined to lose more. Throughout the process i'm very supportive of him even reminding him on sinful foods. I'm happy now that he's back to his diet and sporty activities. His determination also reached the point that he needs some technology to get rid of the excess bulge. Hoping against hope that all his effort will be worthy and will keep him still healthy.

Family Visit

2011-10-14T19:05:00.001-07:00

I'm glad that my family has time to visit me in our place. We have a nice afternoon together with Cooper, a well-known psychic.

Krispy Kreme

2011-10-11T01:35:00.000-07:00

I told myself that i should avoid eating sweets but when i tasted the krispy kreme honey glazed doughnut at Bonifacio High street, i suddenly break that promise. Its soooo delicious that i even buy some more for take outs. Its good that the Krispy Kreme at Solenad 2 will soon to open and my favorite Bread Talk as well. Hopefully i will be able to keep my promise just to buy one to satisfy my cravings and..... no more take outs.

Bonifacio High Street

2011-10-10T04:02:00.001-07:00

Yesterday, we did drive to Bonifacio High street in Taguig to attend the Mabuhay Germany event. Local and foreign tourists visit this attractive spot because of the international shopping and al fresco ambiance that the place provide. This complex also has lots of trendy restaurants, retail outlets and also serves as a very pleasant park for families and friends.

Kieth's 1st Birthday Celebration

2011-10-10T03:45:00.000-07:00

Kitkit, my youngest grandson celebrated his first birthday in our clubhouse. The kids enjoyed very much the parlor games organized by the two clowns, the photo booth and the face painting.Prayers helped a lot because it was very cloudy and rainy that day but it stopped during the celebration. The kids had lots of fun not only on the party but in the swimming pool as well.

My Spiritual Side

2011-10-05T17:36:00.000-07:00

In every country that we visited, we never fail to visit a church and light a candle. I'm very happy that my partner in life is very supportive of my religious beliefs. Though i'm not that active in any church activities but i do pray the rosary everyday and attend sunday masses. Prayer is what we need at all times and thats what keeps me going as well.

Stormy Birthday and Travel

2011-10-02T03:50:00.000-07:00

My namesake, Daphne Antonette celebrated her 7th birthday yesterday amidst typhoon Quiel. Its good that the third floor of our San Pedro house is big enough to accommodate her guests. There's a short program like the 7 roses and candles given by her cousins and girlfriends. Family members also gave an inspiring words and the birthday girl is really very very happy on her memorable day.

Pedring is one of the strongest typhoon that hit our country this year. But that doesnt stop my two sons to visit one of the world's nice beach, Boracay.

The Pancake House

2011-09-29T19:07:00.000-07:00

Dirk missed very much our Philippine pancakes that we decided to have lunch there yesterday. As always, their pancakes is out of the world delicious and the crispy pork vienna that i ordered. I was not able to consume it all and have the rest for dinner.

By the way, some of our balikbayan boxes arrived yesterday. Its mostly our kitchen junks and old household items that can be useful here.

Water Filters

2011-09-29T18:59:00.000-07:00

Just wanted to share to you pictures of our water filters that Dirk changed yesterday. That shows that water here are really not safe nor hygienic, look at the brown dirt that the filters accumulated. Water is life so its much better to play safe than sorry.

Its Fitness Time

2011-09-28T23:00:00.001-07:00

Since we arrived here barely a week ago, we already have two consecutive aerobic sessions with my neighbor friends. There are lots of tempting foods here that i need to watch my weight. Its also not the aero sessions but the bonding time with my wonderful friends.

The wait and wait in Kuwait

2011-09-24T03:00:00.001-07:00

Our agony of waiting started when they announced that our flight to Kuwait will be delayed and we're going to stop in Rome to pick up some passengers. Then they announced that we're not going to stop in Rome anymore and will fly directly to Kuwait but first the plane has to tank because the fuel is not enough. In Kuwait, we're surprised that the flight to Manila was re-schedule the next day at 8 am and in fairness they provided an overnight stay at airport hotel with dinner and breakfast. They said that the pick up time in the hotel going to airport will be at 6 am but the bus came to pick the passengers at 7:20. So instead of 8 am flight we left Kuwait at 9 something and arrived in Bangkok in the evening. Thanks God finally we arrived at dawn in Manila today and happy to be back with my family and our home sweet home.

Our New Ipad

2011-09-18T11:48:00.000-07:00

Gadgets have become a major part of our day to day life. With our new Apple Ipad, we find it very useful, entertaining, engaging and also a better e-book reading device. Gone are the days where we carry heavy laptops during our travel, now its more lighter and even a cure for boredom when there's heavy traffic.

Our short Köln/Bonn Trip

2011-09-15T23:34:00.000-07:00

I already mentioned in my other blog that we visited Mutti in Bonn and attended the necrological service of Tante Krista in Köln. It was a sad day for the family during the service but on the lighter side, we're happy that Mutti is recovering fast from her knee replacement operation. Everytime we're there we always find time to visit Papi's grave. Its a short trip but what is important is the bonding moments of the Bachmann and Zillich family.

Random Photos

2011-09-13T12:28:00.001-07:00

Refreshing moments with friends at Palazzo

our new place

pumpkin festival announcement

our grilled ribs for breakfast

on the baking mode (banana cake)

Cambridge University

2011-09-09T08:44:00.000-07:00

According to Wikipedia, The University of Cambridge is a public research university located in Cambridge, England. It is the second-oldest university in both the United Kingdom and the English-speaking world, and the seventh-oldest globally. It is the best and the biggest university in the world with 31 colleges, made up of over 150 departments and has more than 100 libraries. Upon arrival in UK last tuesday, our friends, Bryan&Lucy and Olive&Norman, guided us to this prestigious university. I was sooo amazed of this educational institution particularly the historic buildings and the modern development around the university campus.

Dinner at Kriz Place

2011-09-04T10:44:00.000-07:00

Yesterday, we were invited by the Kriz, my extended family here for grill dinner at their place. Other guests includes Thomas friends from way back. I have fun playing with our two cuties Annika and Alexis. Its indeed a relaxing evening and a great bonding time with Mabel and her family.

Tomatoes of Joy

2011-08-28T08:20:00.000-07:00

Is tomato a fruit or a vegetable?? Though there are lot of facts that put them in the fruit category but it is also a food that we commonly think of and use as vegetable. Whatever it is, this super food are a rich source of several nutrients and Dirk likes it very much. The other day, i invaded again Joy's garden and harvested some of her red tomatoes. So summer or winter, raw or cooked, anytime is a good time for this versatile fruityvegetable.

By the way, i also spend some bonding/eating time with my close friends last week

Life Updates

2011-08-22T09:30:00.001-07:00

For the past weeks, i have some health problems that needs medical attention. I have some backpain and my ring finger hurts so much and its bended. The doctor said that i have problem with veins on my finger and the first alternative is an injection. If the injection dont works, the last resort is an operation which i dont like. I cried in pain because they used a big needle injection and my hand numbed for hours and its hard for me to drive back home. Now its getting better and hopefully the pain will not return.

While waiting for my name to be called in the doctors office, my attention was caught by the medical helicopter about to transport a patient to another hospital.

With regards to my backpain, injection is also an alternative but i choose a pain reliever instead and a 5 times massage.

In the meantime below is our temporary house

We also met potential house exchange friends-
Location- Achern

Location- Lautenbach

Attended Gina's 40th birthday and Vanessa as well

Visited Nussbach sunflower festival and the rainy Nesselried brennt

And of course, for the last weeks i also have some bonding moments with my friends and eating repeatedly my favorite kartoffel suppe, schnitzel with pommes and heisse waffle with vanilla ice cream. Every monday, we ate at our favorite chinese restaurant for lunch and two weeks ago, an early dinner at Karstadt with Lucy.

Internet Problem

2011-08-17T09:04:00.000-07:00

We still have problem with our internet connection thats why there's no update on this blog. Next week there will be new posts on Cool Mom and My A&B lifestyle blogs.

Its Harvest Time

2011-08-04T11:21:00.000-07:00

The best part about growing fruit trees and shrubs is of course harvesting the fruit. We don't have a garden but my bestfriend supplied us with different fruits from her Garden of Joy.

The Chocolate Museum

2011-07-31T11:15:00.000-07:00

Here are pictures from our trip to the Lindt Chocolate Museum in Köln two days ago. The museum features information on the growing and processing of cocoa. A portion of the museum is a working factory, producing those chocolates in different sizes, truffles, and hollow molded chocolates. The process for making miniature chocolate bars is completely automated and they also give free samples.

By the way, just wanted to share to you the picture of my favorite potato soup with hotdog tidbits. It really taste good that it becomes our favorite lunch.

The Week that Was

2011-07-24T10:57:00.000-07:00

Its been quite some time since i last made my post here but now i'm happy to be back again in the blogosphere. The blogging dry spell over the last weeks has not been for lack of ideas and activities but because of my doctor appointments. I already accepted the fact that i'm in the getting older phase of my life and every day is a blessing. By the way here are my activities last week:

Consultation with our house doctor regarding my back pain and cramps

Eye Doctor appointment

Bonding with friends at Palazzo

Food shopping at Oratay's Thai shop where i took photos of their lunch

Attended the baby party in Elzach

By the way Dirk and family friends Edgar and Michael joined the invitational Golf tournament in Zell Hammersbach

With regards to my family back home, my two year old grandaughter Jamie loves to shop, like grandmother, like grandaughter

Shopping in Heilbronn

2011-07-15T07:51:00.001-07:00

Thanks God its Friday and its shopping time but not in Offenburg but in Heilbronn. While Dirk is busy with his appointment with the Family Judge together with his daughter and ex-wife, i also busied myself with my shopping galore. Lunch is at Sushi and Wok and its the biggest chinese restaurant that i've seen so far.

The Changing Weather

2011-07-15T07:21:00.000-07:00

The weather is really soooo strange, the other day it reached 36 degrees, the next day its very cold. But during those sunny days, i did took advantage of the nice weather browsing around Offenburg with my shopaholic friend, Lucy.

Summertime is Ice Cream Time

2011-07-09T08:13:00.000-07:00

Its very hot last friday so we decided to freshen ourselves of Apple Strudel with ice cream on the sides at Palazzo. Actually its not the weather nor the ice cream but the bonding with close friends.

JUST SHARING
Eversince my youngest grandson Keith started to learn how to reach his toes, he started to suck them, hopefully its just temporary and probably a teether will help.

Lunchdate with Friends

2011-07-07T07:23:00.000-07:00

Since we're all working under one roof, its a bit easier to have lunch with colleague friends. It served as our bonding moment while enjoying the adobong pusit and fried fish that Elena cooked.

Feeling Sick

2011-07-03T08:24:00.000-07:00

I'm really not feeling well after i got my second shot of anti-tetanus two days ago. I did read a lot of information at Google about the side effects and my mild fever and pain in my left arm is just normal. Anyway, the tetanus vaccine encourages the body to create antibodies that provides protection from the illness when we're infected with the tetanus bacteria.

By the way, my eldest sister celebrated her 60th birthday last July 1st. To you Ate, happy happy birthday and wishing you good health and happiness.

Eating with Friends

2011-06-23T07:38:00.000-07:00

One of the delights of life is eating with friends and while eating, we're talking about life. For my picture below, lunch and dinner with friends happened on the same day.
Lunch at Elena's house

Snacks at Palazzo

Dinner at Joy's place

Hanging out with Friends

2011-06-19T07:22:00.000-07:00

Visiting and eating together with friends is absolutely amusing. Before our three day Vienna trip, i still find time to have lunch and coffee with them.

By the way, a very good friend Madam Jo is celebrating her birthday today

Jaimee's Dora

2011-06-12T10:16:00.000-07:00

While other kids like mickey mouse and other cartoon characters, my grandaughter Jaimee likes very much Dora, the Explorer. Dora is the symbol of the little smart, enthusiastic, active and kind girl who is willing to start an adventure for a good cause at any time and is a hit with little ones expecially for our Jaimee. She's turning two soon and its a must gift for her.

JUST SHARING
Cebu Sky Adventure of my sister and her son Matthew

Close Family Friends

2011-06-05T07:50:00.000-07:00

Happiness is having a loving and caring family friends. Last friday, Klaus and Bebel who live in Limburg visited us and have dinner together at Schloss Staufenburg in Durbach. Over flammkuchen and plate of cold cuts, we enjoyed the discussion and the view of Elsass. The next day, they browsed around Offenburg and have lunch at Rebstock Hotel. They are really true friends that never leave our heart even if they live in another city.

Family Fun and Travel

2011-06-05T07:17:00.000-07:00

Summer and school holidays are family travel red-zone periods. Some of my family members back home take advantage of the summer vacation and for a while get the kids away from TV, computer and video games.

A trip nearby - My daughter Rosebelle and company enjoyed the Southforbes pool and Nuvali

Provincial Trip- My eldest and youngest sister with her family in Cebu and Bohol

Outside the country trip- My daughter-in-law and grandson in Hongkong

Just Sharing

2011-06-01T03:36:00.000-07:00

Last saturday, Dirk's motorcycle jacket was stolen while swimming at Mercure Hotel. Now he bought a new one and all of us should see to it that our belongings are safe before doing any activity-

We bought a very small rice cooker, its sooo cute that it looks like a kitchen toy.

Despite the busy schedule, i still find time to read so Dirk bought new pocketbooks authored by John Grisham and Mary Higgins Clark, my favorite writers.

Blogging from the Heart

2011-05-28T08:43:00.000-07:00

I am always thankful for another day, for the life and for the wonderful blessings God had given me, a loving family and supportive friends. Everyday is a learning process and that is the very reason why i decided to blog so my brains will continue to work despite daily work and trials. I always write from the heart and not what i blog about, its how i blog it. Thats why i post even a simple lunch because friends are important to me.

Flores de Mayo

2011-05-25T08:05:00.000-07:00

May is a festive month in the Philippines not only because its my birthmonth but it is where most fiestas are celebrated in by villages and towns. ‘Flores de Mayo’ also remains a highly anticipated Filipino tradition during this month. This beloved event is highlighted by the “Santacruzan,” a parade of lovely ladies and their escorts dressed in their best attire. For a predominantly Catholic country, the Flores de Mayo is said to be a tribute to honor Virgin Mary in a month long festival.
The parade of the Reyna Elena and her groom symbolizes the search for the True Cross in Jerusalem. My grandchildren back home participated in this religious event last saturday. Thanks to Facebook, i'm always updated with the activities of my family.

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Elena's Birthday Celebration

2011-05-20T12:10:00.000-07:00

A very good friend Elena celebrated her birthday today at their place in Zell Weierbach. Its actually a late celebration attended by close friends. She cooked a lot and its a combination of Pinoy dishes, thai and german foods. I did go there earlier and promised to return with Dirk. But he is too kaputt to walk because of the golf tournament and too much walking in Pisa and Florence. His newly operated knee hurts a lot and he needs to see his doctor next week.

Pictures...with Friends

2011-05-15T08:31:00.000-07:00

Here are some photos of me and my friends taken this week...
with Lalaine, Aly and Lucy in the city

with... Ate Susan and her BMW

with Lucy at Palazzo

with... birthday girl Elena

with Lucy and Madam Jo at Rammersweier Hof

My Birthday

2011-05-12T06:37:00.000-07:00

I'm sooo busy the past days that i was not able to blog about Mother's Day and two days after is my birthday. I just have a very simple celebration with my close friends. My kids video greetings was very touching and they even send me some fresh flowers. My friends, relatives, readers, neighbors also posted on my facebook wall their birthday greetings and wishes.

Our favorite Schwarz Hotel in Tirol, Austria also send birthday greetings in german.

Alles Gute zum Geburtstag !
Wir wünschen Ihnen zu Ihrem Ehrentag alles Gute, viel Gesundheit, Glück und Lebensfreude und bereiten gerade alles für Sie vor.

Wir hoffen, dass Sie heute ein paar ganz persönliche Augenblicke finden, um abzuschalten, auf schöne Erinnerungen zurückzublicken, positiv in die Zukunft zu schauen und einfach den Moment zu geniessen.

Ihre Familie Pirktl & das Team
des Alpenresort Schwarz in Mieming Tirol

Zum Geburtstag wünsche ich Dir soviel Spannung wie Du aushalten kannst, soviel Erfolg wie Du möchtest, soviel Liebe wie Du kriegen kannst, soviel Gesundheit wie´s geht, und soviel Glück wie nur möglich

Nanay's 5th Death Anniversary

2011-05-07T07:58:00.000-07:00

For the past days, i really felt bad. One reason is the after effect of the minor accident at home. I'm slowly recovering but there's some strange feeling in me. I have some sleepless nights but its not yet full moon. I really felt restless and light headed until i saw the pictures of my family back home in Facebook remembering the 5th death anniversary of my mother. I'm too engrossed with my wounds and the doctors appointment that i forgot my mother's demise five years ago. Wherever you are Nay, you know that you will be forever in our hearts, we love you very much and i know that you're still looking after us. I will continue to pray for your soul everyday and i know now that this strange feeling is your way of reminding me of your presence in our lives. I still remember that you were buried on Mother's day and to the best mom in the world, this post is heartily dedicated to you.

Minor Accident

2011-05-05T08:04:00.000-07:00

Last night, i was rushed by Dirk at Klinikum Offenburg because of the burns on my right hand. I slightly burn our kitchen because i forgot that i'm cooking something. I really felt depressed and i kept blaming myself. Its an eye opener for me not to do two things at the same time. God is really good because i did not panic and my presence of mind avoided further damages on life and property. God is great because he gave me a very understanding and loving schatz.

An Afternoon with Friends

2011-05-01T08:38:00.001-07:00

After work, its time to enjoy hot waffle and apple strudel with ice cream on the sides.

Family Update

2011-04-27T12:11:00.000-07:00

My daughter Rose Belle and her family spend the holy week at her husband's hometown in Paete, Laguna. The place have a unique and spectacular way of celebrating the holy season. This annual event is not only a medium for Paeteños to display their religiosity but also a means to showcase the superb craftsmanship of their art. The week-long tableau is repeated every year and attracts visitors from other places.

My niece Marnelli joined the Mrs. Barangay Langgam beauty contest where she won the Mrs. Talent and 3rd runner up. My family and friends were there to give moral support and to cheers for her.

Easter Sunday

2011-04-24T10:03:00.000-07:00

When we think of easter, what came accross our mind are colored eggs, bunnies, and candies but for us catholics, it is the most important christian holiday of the year. And today, we celebrated the resurrection of our Lord Jesus Christ. It is also the most awaited day for kids for their easter presents and egg hunting activities.

Astrid and Anawangin Cove

2011-04-22T11:13:00.000-07:00

For three days, my daughter and her friends experienced a back to basic living at Anawangin Cove. Its their perfect getaway for holy week because there's no electricity and mobile signal. I can't imagine her living without facebook but they survived it anyway. The place is a crescent shaped cove with a mixture of volcanic ash, white sand beach, pine trees and the mountain of rocks blended perfectly. Through the years, the hidden cove has maintained its beauty and serenity that can be attributed to its remoteness. The cove's relative isolation has kept it free from development but there's already a few huts and deep wells on this sparkling piece of natural beauty. Join me as i show you my daughter's adventure in Anawangin Cove in Zambales.

Easter Shopping

2011-04-22T00:58:00.000-07:00

The city of Offenburg was very busy yesterday because of the last minute easter shoppers. Stores and supermarkets will be closed today, easter sunday and monday. So its going to be a long weekend and this is a great time for family and friends gatherings. Of course its very important to shopped for easter gifts and foods to be prepared ahead of time. If you wait until the very last minute you will find yourself rushing around to get things that you had forgotten about. To make the easter holiday go as smoothly as possible, prepare a shopping list and to-do list.

Waldkirch Visit

2011-04-20T13:03:00.000-07:00

We've just returned from our small trip to Waldkirch near Freiburg. We visited my niece Mary Ann who arrived from Philippines two weeks ago. She is the third daughter of my only brother and she's now performing her dual role as a wife and a german language student.

Quiet Moment

2011-04-19T03:03:00.000-07:00

Pssssh, my grandchildren are having their power nap, so please keep quiet....zzzzzz

Family Visitors

2011-04-16T09:38:00.000-07:00

Today, my sister and my brother-in-law Thomas came for a visit. We discussed mostly about our family life and future plans. It was just a short visit but we're happy that they exerted effort for some family time.

My brother-in-law was featured in China News with his chinese counterparts