April | 2010 | beyond toxicity

Archive for April, 2010

Apr

ANOTHER MEAL AT MANN HANN

There’s never a dull moment for my family when it’s chow time. Whether we’re enjoying home-cooked dishes or dining out, our choices remain simple.

And one of our favorite mall-based restaurants is Mann Hann. We like it for their unpretentious Chinese dishes with Pinoy taste and their casual and never intimidating ambiance.

Upon browsing my files, I found pictures of our late lunch from Mann Hann in TriNoma several weeks ago.

Although it drizzled a bit today at some places in the Metro, it’s still Summer and Halo-Halo is just perfect whether for lunch, an afternoon snack or for some, even as an after dinner dessert.

Any guess who among us requested for Halo-Halo that time?

I remember Tina suggested a noodle dish, so we opted for Seafood Chami…

It’s a little greasy but the taste is just flavorful!

We also had that much required Yang Chow Fried Rice for extra Carbo-loading… (for what? nothing, LOL! we just felt we like to eat fried rice even if we’re having noodle dish too! Mann Hann’s version doesn’t disappoint).

That time, we passed on one of our Mann Hann favorites, Spicy Squid which is always serve with Chinese Bagoong (now, I’m craving!), and favored another crunchy delight, Lechon Macau…

I know, I know… you’re counting the calories and cholesterol levels! OK, we’re guilty of savoring those sinful foods! LOL! But we also try to eat fruit and veggies on a daily basis; lots of them, actually to help washed out those artery-clogging lipids *defensive*.

And yes, Gabby had one of his comfort foods…

Why do we like Mann Hann? Gabby’s smile says it all.

———————————–<@

Mann Hann / TriNoma Mall, Quezon City (also located in other malls).

Apr

ARE YOU A PIG OR A CHICKEN ?

By docgelo 30 Comments

Categories: Attitude and FAMILY : LOVE KO 'TO
Tags: beyond toxicity, blog about family, doc gelo, docgelo, family & living, family and living, family life, farmville, Life, pig and chicken, spiritual guidance

It may not be apparent in my posts but honestly, I’ve been going through my most trying times that only my family and a couple of friends know. Despite life’s extra-challenges, I thank the Lord for they’ve been so supportive emotionally, financially and most importantly- spiritually.

Admittedly, I’m not that religious but I maintain a constant communication with my Creator. And it’s only during Sunday Masses that my family and I attend where I find peace of mind and solace.

Last Sunday, even Tina, Gabby and I were a bit late at Greenbelt Chapel for the 12 noon Mass and found the church expectedly packed, I still appreciated the fact that we still managed to listen until the last words. There was a guest speaker who happened to be a seminarian; spoke of a parable that you may have been familiar with :

“When the pig and the chicken thought of a surprise birthday gift to their master who owns the farm, the chicken suggested for them to prepare a breakfast in bed. The pig asked the chicken of what to cook, the latter proposed the former, ham and eggs.

The pig felt it was unfair for him because the chicken will just lay and donate her eggs while for him it means a self-sacrifice.”

Then the seminarian asked the faithfuls if they consider themselves as chickens who know how to give and donate or are they pigs who are willing to offer themselves entirely.

I say it’s a tough one to be a ‘pig’.

At this point, I’d like to solicit prayers from you, my kind readers that I may endure life’s challenges and for me to be able to bounce back. Thank you!

I’m so grateful for my family and friends.

I’m thankful for blogging that became my outlet and an extension of my social life even virtually.

I appreciate you, my blogger friends that through your visits and comments you keep me company.

On a lighter note, I may not be a ‘pig’ now who can do unthinkable offerings but I have a few piglets in my barn in farmville, now I’m laughing out loud!

Gabby has his own too; but he’s more preoccupied with Plants vs Zombies while on a summer break from school.

Tina is also busy tending her hacienda…

Seriously, my family and friends keep me sane by reminding me that life is indeed beautiful. It isn’t perfect and sometimes unfair, but it’s still damn good.

I pray for strength, health, happiness.

Apr

ALL SMILES FOR GELATONE

By docgelo 28 Comments

Categories: EVENTS, FAMILY : LOVE KO 'TO and FOOD & MORE FOOD!
Tags: doc gelo, docgelo, family, family and living, food, food blog, food blogger, foodie, gelateria, gelato, gelatone, greenbelt 3, greenbelt restaurants, italian ice cream, makati city restaurants, pinoy family

Summer is truly upon us. Heat is exhausting, is it not? Even a flicker of a muscle will cause you to perspire because of the almost thirty-five-and up-degree-celsius everyday. And what a better way to beat the Summer heat is to enjoy a spoonful of your favorite cold treat!

Several days ago, my family and I found out that we’re one of the Gelatone’s 3rd Anniversary Photo Contest winners. They’ve posted this picture at their facebook site with the sweetest photo caption…

And since its the weekend, we are announcing our 7th winner! The photo was taken during Gelatone’s Charity Event with AHON Foundation and Ateneo’s TOYH! Docgelo sent this photo of Tina and Gabby! Now this is a Mother-Son Team enjoying the Gelatone Experience! Truly, nothing beats FAMILY time @ Gelatone! Cheers! ~GELATONE

Winning Family Bonding Moment + Irresistably Delicious Gelato = Refreshing Summer!

If you’ve been following this blog, you probably know that GELATONE in Greenbelt 3 is one of our favorite food places long before we joined their photo contest. This homey store has the warmest people behind those freshest and sublime Italian ice cream. You know we always value good service + great tasting food.

And so after attending the afternoon Holy Mass at Greenbelt Chapel last Sunday, we visited Gelatone again to claim and enjoy our prize….

Gabby chose PUFFO (Bubblegum), I had MELONE (Melon Sorbet), and Tina savored MASCARPONE (Cream Cheese with Caramelized Figs)! Sarap!

The friendly wait staff who attended to our table explained to me that sorbet doesn’t have milk unlike Gelato when I asked her the difference between the two. I like them both! Sorbet cleanses one’s palate; perfect in between or after meals while Gelatone’s gelati, as I’ve mentioned, are just heavenly.

Did I already tell you that Gelatone also offers pasta and panini which are also a-must-try?

We sampled PANINO ALLA MILANESE; breaded chicken breast Milanese style with tomato. Yum!

Just before we finished all those tasteful merienda, Gelatone’s owner, Ms. Tess gave Gabby yellow and green balloons and suggested we try her freshly prepared Vanilla flavored gelato… It was divine!

Thank you so much to Gelatone and Happy 3rd Anniversary!

It was indeed a wonderful start of another great Summer week!

———————————<@

GELATONE /2F Greenbelt 3, Ayala Center, Makati City

Apr

MUCH ADO ABOUT SUMMER

By docgelo 20 Comments

I have a confession to make.

This may disappoint most of you but Tina and I are not fond of going to the beach during Summer. We prefer to soak under cold shower (together? that’s another story that does not deserve a blog post! LOL!) rather than bathe and immerse on water under the scorching heat of Philippine Sun.

Other than budget consideration during peak season, we enjoy sand, water and what beauty that nature has to offer when it’s not thickly populated. As you may know, my family’s recent beach adventure was last week of October 2009 when BORACAY was in its quiescence…

Tranquility echoed every morning during our days in the island…

Ah, Boracay! When do we get to enjoy your crystal turquoise water and powdery sand again ? It’s not only the beach that’s glorious in this island but digestive feasts too. Summer heat reminds me of spoonful cold treats we had from Boracay’s HALOWICH.

And since we’re not hitting the beach anytime soon, you may now have a clue of how we define SUMMER in our own way…

Yesterday, Tina, Gabby and I went to Iceberg in their Timog Ave. branch to have bowls of Halo-Halo.

What’s a Summer in Manila without it?

For only PhP 98, I enjoyed macapuno balls, slice of peach, sweet plantain, corn kernels, corn flakes, jackfruit strips, ube jam, gulaman on shaved ice topped with ube and strawberry-flavored ice cream!

While Tina and Gabby chose to savor Caramel Flan with Mangoes and Vanilla Ice Cream. Yum!

Summer for us, is a great excuse to devour on these cold gastronomic pleasures.

What’s your favorite food fit for Summer?

How are you spending your Summer? I bet most of you are busy treading on most shores of this archipelago.

Have fun!

Apr

FROM TROUBLED NERVES TO COFFEE BREAK

By docgelo 20 Comments

The other day I was so inspired to post about gratitude. My wife and I, even our little one, are thankful for a lot of things – big and small; and forever we’ll be.

However, things are different when your surrounding gets scary and disturbing. You become more conscious of everything and extra-caring for your family and friends–here and abroad.

Headlines about that raging volcano in Iceland with a name I cannot pronounce.

A CNN news video that I’ve viewed this afternoon with a title that says IS MANILA READY FOR AN EARTHQUAKE?

Scorching Summer Heat… I left Tokyo last March 30 with a temperature of 2 degrees Celsius; arrived in Manila after more than 3 hours of flight with nearly 36 degrees. … Para akong nasa fridge tapos pumasok sa oven!

Annoying loud campaign jingles of local candidates trying to win your vote even if you’re a registered else where! LOL!

And yes, Tina and I are also concerned of our electric bill that soared highest this month. Regardless of the fact that I understood that the raise in the generation charges from power suppliers and the increase in customer’s consumption are the 2 contributory factors; still our main concern is to settle the bill before March 29, that reads PhP 4,520. 75 from usage of 359 total kWh; way above our last month’s P2,900 statement. What about you? How are you dealing with yours?

Luckily, Tina and I got a real bundle of joy…

Gabby : Daddy, ano yang hawak mo?

Me : Meralco bill natin, anak… Tumaas… sobra!

Gabby : Ahhhh… Starbucks na lang tayo, I want Choco-frap!

I & Tina thought : *nice idea!*

….And since Starbucks in the Philippines offers PhP 40 off on all coffee blends on dates April 22 -23, 2010 in celebration of 40th Anniversary of Earth Day for patrons who’ll use TUMBLERS instead of paper and plastic cups, we hurried to our favorite coffee shop to forget about those irksome issues even for a while and re-focused on family bonding…

Gabby’s absolutely right; we need to breathe and chill out… Our 5-year-old son’s presence always reminds us that we appreciate simple things like coffee breaks even on top of overwhelming hassles.

And so Tina had her Expresso frap, and our little one had his Choco-frap and I ordered Java chip frap double blended; all on our tumblers

My worries about the environment, politics, money matters and whatnot were all forgotten when I dunked my fork into these heavenly goodies…

It’s our first time to taste these Top Pot Doughnuts which are now offered at Starbucks : Glazed Old Fashioned Doughnut, Chocolate Old Fashioned Doughnut, Top Pot Apple Fritter. We all shared and tried them all I like them all, actually. The Apple Fritter has a hint of cinnamon while the 2 other Top Pot doughnuts have sublime flavors that are far from being irritatingly sweet.

Tina and I thought that they’re better paired with hot blends rather than frappuccinos. Anyway, there’s always a next time., haha!

Have you tried these Top Pot Doughnuts? Which one is your favorite?

How do you deal with daily stressors like mentioned above? We may not be saints but the 3 of us always pray together, with Gabby as our usual prayer leader.

Oh btw, don’t forget to recycle, reduce and reuse for Mother Earth. We’re trying our best to do that too. HAPPY EARTH DAY EVERYONE! Let’s pray and be easy on stress, OK? haha!

Oops, did I already tell you that Gabby also had a slice of this Oreo Cheesecake?

He finished the entire plate!

Apr

LET’S HAVE A LITTLE FUN!

By docgelo 10 Comments

Categories: EVENTS and HEADLINES
Tags: beyond toxicity, blog anniversary, blog anniversary contest, blog contest, contest, doc gelo, doc gelo blog, docgelo, docgelo blog

Please CLICK–>THIS!

Apr

COUNTING OUR BLESSINGS

By docgelo 23 Comments

Categories: Attitude and FAMILY : LOVE KO 'TO
Tags: breast cancer, cancer, doc gelo, docgelo, family, family and living, family life, gratefulness, gratitude, health, hope, hopeful, parenthood, sickness

Last week, my wife, Tina along with her colleagues paid another co-worker a visit at her hospital bed. One of her fellow clinical instructors has been fighting Breast Cancer and its complications for several years and is now admitted because of her terminal condition. The sight, according to Tina was unbearable.

At lunch time yesterday, my wife informed me via text that she and her colleague will drop by a Pediatric I.C.U. after their work to visit another sick patient. This time, it’s a 2-month-old baby of her colleague, who was admitted for several Congenital Heart Defects.

When she came home early evening, Tina described how she felt upon seeing the infant. Being a nurse , she understands the pathology but as a mother, she was deeply affected by the condition of the baby.

We were talking over dinner last night how grateful we are to the Lord, that despite our own problems and struggles, Gabby, Tina and I remain healthy and hopeful.

Apr

WHAT HAPPENED TO OUR SATURDAY DINNER

By docgelo 18 Comments

Categories: FAMILY : LOVE KO 'TO and FOOD & MORE FOOD!
Tags: atrium, dining, dinner, doc gelo, docgelo, eating, family, family and living, family life, food, food blog, foodie, friends, holy cow, holy cow atrium, holy cow megamall, megamall, megamall atrium, megamall restaurants, sm megamall

Tina, Gabby and I were treated to dinner by 2 of our best friends of 17 years yesterday; they’re Rob and LG, dutiful godparents of Gabby actually. It’s our usual bonding session whenever Rob comes home for a few-week-vacation every 3 months from his paramedic-work abroad. LG on the other hand, just arrived from his 1-week-Bangkok-vacation few hours before our early dinner. A lot of catching up were done in between these tummy-fillers…

CHEESE STICKS (PhP 165+) and CLAM CHOWDER (PhP 70+) for starters…

Gabby liked the super-sized Cheese Sticks; he even requested for a second order that we didn’t avail. We had 3 orders of the Clam Chowder but it’s a huge let down! It was thin and was not creamy at all!

YUMMY FISH N FRIES (PhP 260+)

The Yummy Fish N Fries was OK; a common fish and chips-nothing to rave about. The same word goes to the plates of pasta we sampled…

CHEESY CARBONARA (PhP 190+) and SPAGHETTI MARINARA (PhP 180+)…

OCEAN TREASURE (PhP 899+), almost saved the night with its quite impressive presentation; was served as flambe!

This to-share-order was nearly a great hit if properly served with condiments and/or sauces. Our sponsor even had to ask from the wait staff some bottles of ketchup and hot sauce.

The ambiance was fine; place cozy lit; with nicely interiored western appeal.

You might think why we didn’t try their steaks, it’s because one of our friends doesn’t eat red meat and it’s not a problem to us; we all like seafoods anyway.

*Our attention was drawn when Tina politely complained to the staff that she saw Gabby’s second glass of chocolate milkshake called COWPOKES (PhP 85+/tall glass) was not properly prepared. My wife actually saw in less than a meter from our table, the staff who made the milkshake as she put down her spoon on top of UNSTERILE stainless counter; then she used the same spoon to taste what she’s blending; repeated her actions several times over.

Tina didn’t let the chance pass to correct the untidy preparation of our child’s drink. She’s a professional nurse, a customer and a mother to begin with. I admired my wife for holding her temper; she was so composed while talking to the staff who was apologetic and rightfully replaced Gabby’s glass. Although we were not sure if they’ve called the attention of the female crew who did the unsightly incident.

I was even a bit eager to try this restaurant last night to compare how it rates to another similar-name-forgettable-food place in TriNoma that we tried last year (view HERE).

Can you blame us if we become skeptical to try another meal from…

Nevertheless, our biggest thanks for Rob and LG’s company.

—————————–

HOLY COW STEAK RANCH AND AMERICAN GRILL / SM MEGAMALL ATRIUM, ORTIGAS.

Apr

TATAY-DOC SPEAKS

By docgelo 9 Comments

Categories: Attitude and FAMILY : LOVE KO 'TO
Tags: children, doc gelo, docgelo, family, family and living, family life, family values, fatherhood, kids, pamilya, parenthood, parents, parents on becoming better parents, Pinoy, pinoy family, singles on being parents

“A man’s worth is measured by how he parents his children. What he gives them, what he keeps away from them, the lessons he teaches and the lessons he allows them to learn on their own.” ~Lisa Rogers

I am a young parent. My son is turning 6 this October; and a month prior to his birthday this year, I’ll be celebrating my 34th. I know it’s not our ages or the number of children we have that defines a parent. It’s the maturity that lies in accepting the responsibility of becoming one and how he handles and goes through life with his kids.

In both troubled and happy times, I draw strength from the Lord, not for myself but for my son. He and his mom are my utmost priorities.

THEY HAVE REDEFINED MY LIFE.

THEY’RE MY LIFE NOW.

I’d like to see my child grow as a whole-rounded individual who always keeps an open mind to understand that life isn’t purely fun and play but also filled with trials and tears. I know it’s too early for Gabby to absorb all these but is there any rule or specific date for parents to inform kids about these things ?

I and his mom always try to explain to him in simplest possible ways, those little facts of life. Like when we usually see beggars on streets; kids sleeping on gutters, some people who are ill, particularly of his age, we frequently tell him that he’s luckier more blessed because he’s healthy and free from any sickness; he has a home to shelter him, and so fortunate to be well-fed; with no early obligations except to enjoy schooling and his childhood.

Perhaps, it is clear to my son, that we may not have everything now, but at least we’re living life happily together with so much love and faith in God.

With the way things are, my wife and I are so grateful to the Lord for having Gabby. Not only because he is smart and excels in his studies and extra-curricular activities but he simply brings joy despite the hassles and challenges of our daily living.

I am aware that I have to continuously grow as a person for me to become a better parent; and every single day is such a wonderful learning experience!

——————————–<@

for parents out there : how would you rate yourself as a parent and your life with your kid/s?

for singles who plan to become parents : how do you see yourselves as parents someday?

Apr

NOTHING BUT CHOCOLATES

By docgelo 24 Comments

“There are four basic food groups: milk chocolate, dark chocolate, white chocolate, and chocolate truffles” -Anonymous. LOL!

It’s a sin to think about and post this at almost midnight and I know that there’s more to life blog than chocolates but not right now, LOL!

One of the things I always welcome is receiving BOXES of SURPRISES.

In one of my voice calls via YM with Tina when I was in Tokyo few weeks ago, she told me she received a package in my behalf, delivered by a courier. The box came from her aunt who works and resides in Europe. I used to prescribe her aunt medication, so from time to time, she sends us chocolates without me asking her. Sweet!

This was also the reason why I resisted temptation of buying ROYCE at Narita Airport near the PAL boarding gates even if ROYCE chocolates there are only sold for as low Y660 (PhP 330); cheaper than its cost in TriNoma and Greenbelt 5.

Forgive me, I can only share photos with you; you know I practice “Family-First Policy“, LOL

Just take a good look at them; they really melt in your eyes; err mouth!

Forget your diet, LOL!

Go ahead, indulge!

What are your favorite chocolates ?

Sweet dreams, everyone!

Apr

SPANISH WINES & RABBIT STEW FOR LUNCH

By docgelo 31 Comments

Categories: EVENTS and FOOD & MORE FOOD!
Tags: doc gelo, docgelo, exotic food, fine dining, food, food blog, food blogger, foodie, oakroom, oakwood, oakwood premier, oakwood premier joy-nostalg center, press lunch, rabbit dish, rabbit stew, restaurant, spanish wines, torres fransola, torres wines, wines

Guess where I had lunch last Wednesday ?

Upon arrival from Tokyo a couple of weeks ago, I immediately received an invitation via text and e-mail to attend TORRES WINES PRESS LUNCH at Oakroom in the 6th level of Oakwood Premier Joy~Nostalg Center Manila. Of course, I’m no member of the press, (but who knows? I might venture into that avenue too, LOL! ) but I am as excited as them to share with you what Future Trade International, the importer and distributor of such wines and more to the Philippines, Oakwood Premier and Torres Wines have to offer as they collaborate in this Spanish Food and Wine Festival.

ELEGANCE in BOTTLES…

I arrived at the venue last 07 April 2010 just several minutes before the event started. The simple and intimate affair began with white wine offering : TORRES FRANSOLA.

“TORRES FRANSOLA - Intense complex aroma of exotic fruit (passion fruit and green fig), delicately ennobled by fine notes of toast and vanilla (from ageing in new French oak). Good balance in the mouth thanks to the wine’s acidity, with floral notes that pleasantly linger mid-palate.”

I am far from being a wine connoisseur; in fact, I rarely drink! I do, but very occasionally. I may not be knowledgeable enough with wines and spirits but I know my palate well.

And among the Torres wines we’ve sampled that day, I like the white wine-FRANSOLA the best. It’s fresh and light and makes you want to drink more! LOL! I just reminded myself that ”everything should always be in moderation.”

With Fransola’s light and pleasing taste, I am now a believer that white wines aren’t less sophisticated than red.

After the warm introduction, lunch was served…

Our first course : JAMON SERRANO, hand carved Serrano ham with olives and greens.

The salad was paired with TORRES CORONAS TEMPRANILLO…

“TORRES CORONAS TEMPRANILLO : Delicate floral aromas over a background of very ripe fruit (blackberry and strawberry), oak and truffles. Its tannins have a fruity, meaty structure that evolves into velvety touches of smoke and spices acquired during ageing.”

I tried to savor the flavor of this red wine with that bit salty taste of the salad and I wasn’t disappointed.

I admired its almost magenta-red color; tried to swirl my glass and smelled its aroma and appreciated its stronger taste than Fransola.

Bread and butter were served prior to the salad; then on to the second course : GAZPACHO ANDALUZ; chilled soup (yes it was not a usual hot soup!) with tomato, garlic, bread, cucumber and onion.

My senses welcomed the cold soup! It’s thick and creamy with a taste that’s complementary with Fransola.

Then came the main dish : CONEJO CON ACEITUNAS; rabbit stewed with red wine, tomato and olives. The rabbit stew was paired with TORRES GRAN SANGRE DE TORO…

“TORRES GRAN SANGRE DE TORO -All the exuberant aroma traditionally found in an intense, ripe red wine, with a sensual background of the spices in good balance with perfumed notes reminiscent of blackberries. Full, long finish on the palate.”

I was easy on the red wine; and had mixed thoughts on the rabbit. Actually, most people with me on our table had been thinking as early as we read what’s on the menu, if they would dunk their forks and knives on the slices of bunny on our plates; considering that we just celebrated Easter! LOL! Most of them were thankful that the rabbit stew was served with sea bass that I found delicately delicious! Almost all of us thought of lamb as closest comparison to the rabbit’s different taste and distinct aftertaste.

I was never skeptical that I cannot eat that rabbit dish (for I fear other animals, not that furry one). I took it as a fresh experience (similar with having that chilled soup!). I seriously thought at that moment that a drink of Torress Gran Sangre de Toro in between bites of that rabbit meat was indeed, necessary!

The dessert was LECHE FRITA, deep fried custard that’s crunchy outside with soft, mushy and gooey filling.

I may not be that adventurous when it comes to dining as I try to avoid exotic “unusual” foods and commonly stick to my favorites. I may not be a “wine master” and still have to learn more about wine appreciation but nevertheless, this lunch set paired with finest Spanish wines gave me a new and pleasant experience on the table and I honestly appreciate it.

To Torres Wines, Future Trade International and Oakwood,

Cheers! And Thank you for sharing this wonderful event with us.

Special thanks to Ms. Nadal for the invites.

*Viva Espana Spanish Wine and Food Festival at Oakroom is celebrated on April 16-30, 2010 at Oakwood Premier Joy~Nostalg Center Manila in Ortigas. Tel # (63-2) 637-7888 / (63-2) 910-8888 ext 8118.

Apr

LETTERS ABOUT TOKYO #14 : PASALUBONG!

By docgelo 32 Comments

Dear Tina and Gabby,

Despite the very limited budget and only 20-23kg luggage allowance from PAL, I still managed to get you some stuffs from Asakusa, Tokyo Disney Resorts and Akihabara as my little pasalubong for you!

From ASAKUSA TEMPLE, I got these ref magnets to add TO OUR FRIDGE MAGNETS COLLECTION…

I got these 2 keychains as you’ve requested… (simple lang at maganda ang wife ko, keychain lang ang gusto!)

I bought a white Japanese tea-cup mug with faces of Sumo wrestlers engraved as design for myself (not in photo).

I also got something for our friends –chopsticks!

These pillow and cans of butter and chocolate cookies are all yours from TOKYO DISNEYLAND and DISNEYSEA…

(FYI, my wife collects tin cans, that’s how simple she really is! So I thought these 2 tin cans with Stitch design and embossed Disney characters would delight her more than its contents. I also brought home a zippered lunch box I got from my dinner set in Tokyo DisneySea for Gabby)

‘ney, I got this ‘kikay kit’ for you with Minnie Mouse ‘s soft and chewy sweets inside…

Last but not the least…

Gabby, since I and your mom love you so much; not only because you are named 3rd Honorable Mention at your recently concluded Kindergarten graduation and has been awarded honors in your preschool’s Declamation and Academic Contests in 2 consecutive years, we think you deserve something you really want.

I (with Dr. BPS) went back to AKIHABARA ELECTRIC TOWN a day before my flight back home just to get you this present…

This is your most wanted pasalubong, right? I bought those from Ishimaru store in Akihabara; glad you like it, anak!

Now you have both your gameboy and this new Sony PSP with 4-gig memory stick to enjoy during the summer break! But promise me and your mom that you’ll continue to be a good boy and a smart preschool pupil, OK?

I love you ‘ney and Gabby!

Tatay-doc.

————————————————————————-

Dear Kind Readers,

Beyond Toxicity will be celebrating its 3rd anniversary on May 08, 2010. Because of this, I thought of giving away little something from my Tokyo trip. No, it’s not the PSP I bought for Gabby, but these wonderful pairs of authentic Japanese chopsticks; all yours when you join and win the small blog-contest that I will be throwing before this month ends (will be only open to all readers within the country and abroad who can provide mailing address within the Philippines ). Simple and easy mechanics will be posted on the last week of April so stay tuned.

Now, who wants these chopsticks?

This ends my 14-part-Letters about Tokyo series. Thanks for following!

Sayonara and Arigato Gozaimasu, Tokyo!

-gelo.

Apr

LETTERS ABOUT TOKYO #13 : TOKYO SEA LIFE PARK

By docgelo 3 Comments

Dear Tina and Gabby,

About three weeks ago, I spent my first weekend in Tokyo with sharks, school of fish and corals…

I rode a train with a bunch of fun-loving Pinoy MDs from Gotanda to Tokyo Stations then we took a 15 minute-train-ride from JR Tokyo Station via Keiyo Line.

Entrance fees to the aquarium are Y700 (PhP 350) for adults, Senior Citizens Y350, Students (13-15 y/o) Y250 and Children (0-12 y/o) FREE.

Before we saw the fish tanks and what the Japanese waters have to offer, I’ve started my admiration with colorful blooms that grow best even in almost always-single-digit-temperature.

And here are some of those cold-blooded friends we met from Tokyo Sea Life Park…

Having seen Ocean Park in Hong Kong, Kelly Tarlton’s in New Zealand, and even our very own Manila Ocean Park , I was a bit disappointed when I found out that Tokyo Sea Life Park has no walk-through-180-degree-glass aquarium.

Nevertheless, the penguins made my day that Saturday afternoon.

The first time I saw live penguins was at Kelly Tarlton’s Antarctic Encounter and Underwater World in NZ; then was only followed by the sight of these cute little ones…

We ended our day at this spot near the sea; We had fun like kids, taking photos–jumping left and right for the cameras…

The place was simple yet a perfect one to commune with nature. The day had the coldest temperature I’ve ever experienced; it was no longer winter in Tokyo then but definitely it was chilling cold.

God willing, one day, I’ll be able to bring you to Tokyo and we’ll visit these wonderful parks together.

I love you, ‘ney and Gabby.

Tatay-doc.

Apr

LETTERS ABOUT TOKYO #12 : ASAKUSA TEMPLE

By docgelo 20 Comments

Dear Tina and Gabby,

One of my memorable mornings in Tokyo was spent in ASAKUSA TEMPLE (heard them pronounced it as Asaksa).

From Gotanda, I rode a subway train alone directly to Asakusa; after few minutes of train ride, I’ve explored their so-called “traditionally Japanese atmosphere.”

I had mixed thoughts on seeing human-powered-transport in the form of RICKSHAWS. I think I cannot pay Y8,000 (PhP 4,000) for several minutes to an hour of a runner’s agony. But it was nice to know that these runners have passed a licensure exam to do the job and know how to speak English for the sake of tourism.

The gates to Asakusa Shrine…

The place isn’t hard to locate once you got off from the subway train. It’s immediately across the main street guarded by a KOBAN or a Japanese Police Station because understandably, Asakusa is one of Tokyo’s main tourist attractions.

Asakusa has the largest CHOCHIN or a Japanese lantern made of framed bamboo wound in spiral that is located at the central entrance of the KAMINARIMON (雷門, “Thunder Gate”). After the Kaminarimon, visitors are greeted by souvenir stalls in parallel on way to the main temple.

This was one of the places where I got your little pasalubong. (read : I’ll have another post letter for pasalubong soon). If you fancy something else that I failed to buy, at least I have captured them in pics, LOL

The souvenir shops along the path to Asakusa Shrine reminds me of the pasalubong stalls in Antipolo Church. I did window shopping first and held myself from impulsive buying; after which, I found myself mesmerized by these Buddhist statues…

I like how this monument depicted motherly love; I remember how much you love Gabby, ‘ney

Then I also like this statue of a monk with one foot dangling. His posture appears peaceful and sublime.

The place also features a 5-tiered tower and the essentials of a Buddhist temple –incense to purify their being; water to wash their hands and mouth; all done to prepare themselves for veneration.

A few steps more to the main Shrine…

Cherry Blossom began to bloom that day…

Lovely as any Spring…

In God’s time, we’ll visit Tokyo together and savor these wonderful places again.

I love you, ‘ney and Gabby!

Tatay-doc.

Apr

LETTERS ABOUT TOKYO #11 : EATING JAPANESE

By docgelo 37 Comments

*WARNING : This post can make you SALIVATE & FEEL VERY SATIATED! Enjoy!

—————————————————————————————–<@

Dear Tina and Gabby,

My 14-day-stay in Tokyo could not be any happier if not for (my colleagues) our memorable weekends and these Japanese gastronomic delights. You know how I like sushi and eating it as authentic as it gets was just divine!

My very first bite of sushi costs Y890 (PhP 445). Funny that I have to share it with our head nurse, because we both didn’t know if it’s too pricey or not, since it was our first night in Tokyo then.

Luckily after we transferred accomodation, our colleagues told us of a department store called Remy that sells all other things but most importantly bread, sushi, salad, bento boxes and other food items at 30 –50% off every 8:30PM (and those aren’t expired yet; they just want to dispose everything within the day to keep things on shelves fresh). Buying discounted food is one of the best things I have experienced in Tokyo (everything else other than Remy’s are expensive in Japan including train fares, particularly when you convert prices into pesos!).

These are some of my Remy purchases that kept my stomach full every dinner!

Each sushi set at Remy costs around Y480 –900+. So it’s really a good buy when it’s discounted at night; although one has to wait until it’s labelled as such.

There’s this microwavable- Tonkatsu-set that was originally priced at Y480; then after 8:30PM, I bought it only at half of it’s price. I had to keep most of my food spending for dinner on a low key for the rest of my budget per day was allotted for water (yes, we even had to buy 2-liter-bottles of drinking water), food for breakfast and lunch, laundry and laundry essentials, pricey train fares and other expenses. Remember, Tokyo is the most expensive city in the world! And EVERY MOVE IN TOKYO COSTS A YEN!

At some nights, I bought salad and a cup of dessert -sweet and fruity; in addition to my main dishes.

I love that salad set; it’s a combination of potato topped with kani strips, mac and cheese topped with boiled egg, and some cold salad made of cucumber and other veggie strips. I like it so much that I bought it for 3 or 4 times when I was there!

I like how Japanese are so keen on their calorie-intake. Most if not all purchases, contain calorie counts to guide those diet-conscious consumers (not me! LOL!). Like this Fish and Tamago bento that costs Y498 had 675 kilo calories.

I also found this bacon-wrapped rice so easy and convenient to eat; a real-whole-meal-in-one! Not to mention it’s few of the things in Tokyo that comes in affordable price…

Their iced tea doesn’t taste that sweet even if it’s flavored. But their coffee is something else, sarap!

Here are proofs that I also cooked and cooked and cooked in my room to save, save and save…

Ugh, the agony of staying abroad on a budget! We all had to buy our own frying pan and syanse , cooking oil, soy sauce, some dozen eggs, (canned goods like spam for my colleagues) and chicken nuggets from convenient stores and groceries.

Still from Remy’s, I was able to cook some Aussie Beef slices that I bought for a cheaper price (compared to local price in Manila).

Those rice patties wrapped with nori were already tasteful at Y120 (PhP 60) each at regular price; I just can’t eat them sans ulam.

On one of those nights, I had Gyoza, Y260 (PhP 130) and nothing more; then the next night I had pig-out again by buying another microwavable dinner from Remy (I really love that store in Gotanda!).

That set on the right of 4-piece-fried chicken and fries (Y580) were so huge that I had it for dinner and breakfast too!

My lunch with my colleagues were also remarkable.

Rememeber I showed you this Sukiyaki set on one of my first letters to you…

This Sukiyaki set that costs Y1000 (PhP 500) was a lunch treat from the 2 Japanese guys I met there. It’s one of the best-tasting Sukiyaki that I’ve tried. Yummy!

Here are the other lunch sets that I had from a buffet spread of one of those restaurants…

One afternoon, I had salad, miso soup, desserts and an assorted tempura plate all for Y950 (PhP475 ). Then another lunch time, I had salad again, miso soup, desserts and a burger steak plate all for Y850 (PhP 425).

In Tokyo, one of their famous and affordable 24-hour fastfood chains, more like of our Jollibee or McDo here is Yoshinoya. I know we haven’t eaten in Yoshinoya here in Manila, but my first take on it in Tokyo wasn’t that bad. For a Y500 coin (PhP 250), you can have a set meal with Japanese tea in less than 5 minutes; really convenient especially on nights when I was too lazy to shop or cook for dinner (read : it was always single-digit-celsius when I was there; was always a “bed-weather” before and after dinner!).

Is it not too obvious that Sukiyaki is one of my favorites ? LOL!

Remember I told you that our colleagues also treated us in aYakiniku lunch buffet near Ginza Street; the resto is called Don.K! (pronounced by Japanese as donki). It’s like Yakimix that we have sampled in SM Mall of Asia. The price per head was just similar with Yakimix; Buffet at Don.K! per pax costs Y1000 for lunch and Y3000 for dinner.

At TOKYO DISNEYLAND

and TOKYO DISNEYSEA , my late lunch and dinner sets were simple (but quite expensive too at Y790 and Y1450 with lunch box)

My last lunch at Tokyo was with Doc B.P.S when we were in Akihabara. It was good that a day before my flight back home, he introduced me to a common Japanese eatery that requires diners to choose from a menu display of plastic food on the window and pay via vendo machine (due to lack of cashiers); get the stub and hand it in at the counter…

I found this dining system very efficient and wish we could have the same here in Manila.

Katsudon at Y455 (PhP 227.50) for my last lunch in Tokyo…

You may drool and burp now, hehehe!

I may have had the best tasting sushi, sukiyaki and bento boxes in Tokyo, but every dining experience was still less without the two of you, naks!

These foods may be authentic Japanese but nothing beats home-cooked foods shared together on our very own table.

I love you, ‘ney and Gabby.

Here’s to more simple indulgences together!

Tatay-doc

—————————————————————————————–<@

To my Kind Readers,

There will be more of my Tokyo experience that I’ll share with you on my next posts . Thanks for following this series.

-gelo

Apr

LETTERS FROM TOKYO #10 : TOKYO DISNEYSEA

By docgelo 22 Comments

Categories: FAMILY : LOVE KO 'TO, TOKYO and TRAVEL
Tags: american port, disneyland, disneysea, doc gelo, docgelo, europe, family, family and living, family fun, family life, food blog, fun, japan, mediterranean, pinas, Pinoy, spring break, themed parks, themed resort, themed resorts, TOKYO, tokyo disney resort, tokyo disney sea, tokyo disneyland, tour, tourism, tourist spots, TRAVEL, travel blog, traveling, travelling, trip, trips abroad, vacation

Dear Tina and Gabby,

It was last Sunday, March 28 when our group rode Yamanote Train line from Gotanda to Tokyo and hopped off from Tokyo Station to Disneysea. Yup, it’s only in Japan where one can find and enjoy DISNEYSEA. Remember I told you that we availed of their promo rates of Y10,000 (PhP 5K) for both DISNEYLAND and DisneySea on 2 consecutive days? (One park entrance fee on regular rates costs Y5,800 or PhP 2,900). We’re glad to grab the chance because it was all worth the fun!

From the Disney Resort’s main entrance, we paid Y250 (PhP 125) for one-way-Disney Train-ride and off we went to the other happiest place on Earth.

SM Mall of Asia ? Naaaah… Tokyo DisneySea Plaza…

There were those tiny and colorful petals near the entry gates that were so attractive that I cannot resist but to capture… It’s the start of the Spring season in Tokyo when I left. Imagine these plants a few more days from now; they’ll be in full bloom!

Welcome to Tokyo DisneySea…sana kasama ko kayo dito! There’s always a next time… someday!

Tokyo DisneySea’s tag line is : Where Adventure and Imagination Set Sail… It’s true that we sailed into its 7 beautiful themed ports of call starting with MEDITERRANEAN HARBOR…

MEDITERRANEAN HARBOR has the ambience of Southern European port where one can even take a ride on a gondola!

We’ll ride those gondolas in Venice one day (libre naman mangarap di ba?).

One of the features of Mediterranean Harbor is the FORTRESS EXPLORATIONS…

It’s an interactive fun at the Fortress and Galleon…

We all lined up for the LEONARDO CHALLENGE but was dumbfounded that the “mission” on the map given to us by the staff and its clues and directions were all in Japanese! LOL We were all smiling when our “lost in translation” episodes in Tokyo continues…

There’s something about boats, ships and galleons that I like; perhaps, I’m a sailor in my past life, LOL.

The Japanese made an amazing job putting up all these… It’s just fantastic!

After Mediterranean Harbor comes AMERICAN WATERFRONT…

TOWER of TERROR is one of American Waterfront thrilling attractions. It’s a tour of an old, abandoned hotel to explore its treasures and mysteries. Supernatural phenomena and spine-tingling climax await visitors.

According to Tokyo DisneySea’s map, in American Waterfront, one can find both the excitement of the big city and the charms of a New England fishing village in this vibrant themed port.

At CAPE COD…

Our group had a leisure trip around the park via the DisneySea Transit Steamer Line. After which, our feet led us all to PORT DISCOVERY…

People get to visit the scientists of the Center for Weather Control in this themed port located across the horizon of time.

Attractions at Port Discovery include Storm Rider (a movie shown inside a theater) and AQUATOPIA, a twirling ride with watercrafts that spin wildly through a maze of fountains, rock formations and whirlpools.

After Port Discovery, Mount Prometheus greeted us at MYSTERIOUS ISLAND…

Captain Nemo has created this secret base for his explorations into the depths of the Earth and beneath the waves.

Don’t you wish to explore the abyss with that submarine? I think it’s only for display.

All of the attractions in Disneyland and DisneySea have posted time of waiting on queue. In Mysterious Island, there’s that JOURNEY TO THE CENTER OF THE EARTH (inspired by Brendan Fraser movie) ride aboard fantastic vehicles designed by Captain Nemo. And guess what? Waiting time : 3 LONG HOURS! Some of the doctors who took the ride told us that the wait was worth it. Sulit daw; Sayang di kami sumakay!

Moving on…

LOST RIVER DELTA …

The ruins of an ancient Central American civilization await visitors deep within the remote jungles of this themed port.

One of biggest attractions in Lost River Delta is INDIANA JONES ADVENTURE : TEMPLE OF THE CRYSTAL SKULL. Another is RAGING SPIRIT for those daredevils who wanted to try roller coaster ride with 360-degree loop.

MERMAID LAGOON is one of the most colorful features of Tokyo DisneySea…

The world of Ariel, the little mermaid, and her aquatic friends is filled with fun for kids of all ages.

Inside the Mermaid Lagoon are attractions like Flounder’s Flying Fish Coaster, Scuttle Scooters,Ariel’s Greeting Grotto, Mermaid Lagoon Theater, Jumping Jellyfish, Blowfish Balloon Race, The Whirlpool and Ariel’s Playground.

Then the last area we’ve explored for several minutes was the ARABIAN COAST…

We set sail for an adventure ride at SINBAD’S STORYBOOK VOYAGE. The tour inside the theater on board a water-floating seats was meant for kids but nevertheless also fascinated me; except for the songs of Sinbad in Nihonggo. After Sinbad’s Storybook, we had hot cups of coffee which were so soothing…(read : it was a single-digit-degree-celsius again that day in Tokyo).

These are the pillars of the cafe where we had our coffee…

Other than Sinbad’s StoryBook Voyage, the Genie from the Disney classic film, Aladdin has created this themed port full of magic and mystery. There’s an entire garden devoted to Jasmine.

With Tokyo DisneySea, I thought I was touring the world; I almost forgot I am in Japan!

Even creeping grass were made to be fascinating…

At late afternoon, we headed to Mediterranean Harbor again near the main entrance; we got time to shop for pasalubong (I’ll have another posts for pasalubong soon) and ate early dinner…

I chose this lunch/dinner set of ham & turkey sandwich with muffin (that I gave to nurse Ruth), strawberry panna cotta and coffee.

I like it even if it was Y1480 (PhP 740); quite pricey but I know nothing comes cheap in Tokyo and secondly, this set came with lunch box with Tokyo DisneySea characters and logo on it. Of course, Gabby the lunch box is for you, anak for you to use this coming June in school!

Our day at Tokyo DisneySea was capped by BRAVISEA MO! a show of waters and fireballs (read : Disneyland has fireworks, DisneySea has fireballs!) over the Mediterranean Harbor. The night came more alive with the miraculous tale of love between Bellisea, the spirit of water and Prometeo, the spirit of fire. It’s a must-see, magnificent and spectacular show of fire and water! A perfect show to end the day.

The Lord knows how I wished that I have enjoyed Tokyo Disney Resorts with you, ‘ney and Gabby. I’ll just hope that one day, I’ll get to bring you there and savor these wonderful themed parks together.

Two days are not enough for these 2 wonderful attractions in Tokyo.

Although most of them say that Disneyland and DisneySea are the happiest places on Earth, I say it’s still HOME!

I love you Tina and Gabby!

So glad to be home.

Tatay-doc.

——————————

Dear Kind Readers,

After viewing my posts on TOKYO DISNEYLAND and TOKYO DISNEYSEA, which do you want to experience ASAP one day ? Which park do you think is far better than the other ? Take your pick.

I’ve got more posts on Tokyo coming up! Thanks for following and may the good Lord bless us all always. Stay safe, healthy and happy, everyone! Advance Happy Easter!

-gelo.

*note : most descriptions of the park’s attraction written in italics were sourced from the Tokyo DisneySea October 2009 –March 2010 Guide Map.

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