Manny Paquiao, The Best Ever

It's just been minutes since Manny Pacquiao was declared winner in the May 8, 2011 fight with Sugar Shane Mosley! He is still the world's WBO welterweight champion, for the 14th time!

Photo: Associated Press

It's very timely for us that for the two consecutive fights of the "Pambansang Kamao" (National Boxer; "kamao" means fist in Filipino) since the bout with Miguel Cotto somebody in the family celebrates his/her birthday. So, there's more reason to be happy about today.

Our own MGM Grand

We enjoyed the game so much. We watched throughout, beginning with Charice's rendition of the Philippine National Anthem onwards to the 12th round. We were with Manny, hoping and praying that he would win. We were there when he gave Mosley a knock-down and when Mosley pushed him down. Just as we hoped and prayed, Manny emerged victorious; everything is indeed worth celebrating.

Happy Birthday, Dottie!

While we were jumping up and down during the boxing match, our kids were very oblivious about the excitement going outside the house. They were playing Moshi Monsters and the others were very disappointed when the grown-ups had to snatch the tv away to put outside for the boxing viewing, and which, ended their game on PS3. They do not care so much who's Manny Pacquiao; they're too young to be concerned or very interested about the fight.

Happy Birthday, Uncle Roming

After watching the live fight on cable television, the celebrants blow out their candles. The children went back to continue their computer games, while the adults watched the replay of the fight. As of this writing, the kids are still glued on the computer screen while the adults are still trying to fully satisfy themselves with Paquaio's fight by watching the replay.

During the fight, the commentator says: "Manny Pacquaio, the best ever? Maybe." Our answer is: Of course, he is! No doubt about it!

Congratulations, Manny! We're so proud of you! Continue being humble and God-fearing, That's the reason why you are so blessed.

-- Ireen --

The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge

It's another insomniac night for me and I was thinking about the week that was, and how long I was unable to update this journal.  The week was indeed very busy especially in the European part of the world, in a city called London.  It seems like everybody wanted to go to that place, no matter how much price they have to pay for the plane tickets and all! 

Well, if I had the money, I'd surely be in London, too, to witness in person the much-awaited union of Kate Middleton and Prince William last April 29, 2011.

Photo: The British Monarchy

Since I don't have the means to go to Westminster Abbey and also because I was not invited, I just glued on the televised ceremony of the historic matrimony.

Yes, I got the royal wedding fever, too. I purchased whatever affordable reading materials about Kate and Prince William. I read every novel news about the couple that came out each day prior to the wedding.

At long last, they finally tied the knot! Every moment was beautiful and perfect, like a  fairy tale where a commoner marries a royalty; some parts of it reminded me of "Princess Diaries" (starred Anne Hathaway) and Paige Morgan in The Prince and Me (starred Julia Stiles).

Photo: The British Monarchy

Anyway, now that Catherine Elizabeth Middleton and Prince William Arthur Philip are married, I pray that they will always live in love and serve as an inspiration to all couples in the world.

Cheers to the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge! 

Kate Middleton: Soon-to-be Princess

I have always believed that our lives have long been written prior to us being born. Funny thing is, it's our lives but we never get to hold a copy of our life stories to guide us through, because, I guess, we are meant to be actors, rather than directors. Such is a life of a girl who is soon to become a Princess. Her name is Kate; Middleton is the last name.

I was seven years old then when I saw a real wedding of a real princess and a real prince charming -- not the ones I was used to see on tv and those that my kids are so fond of watching now; you know, Cinderella story (?), Princess Aurora (?), Belle (?), etc. I am talking about the wedding of Prince Charles and Princess Diana on July 29, 1981. 

Perhaps, I was right all along to observe that between these two, it was Princess Diana who was the happiest, such happiness exuding from the inside out, that her face was amazingly a picture of total love and joy. The marriage apparently was not equal at both sides, that unlike the happily-ever-after stories that Disney Princess movies usually depict, the love story of Princess Di and Prince Charles ended sad and a bit tragic.

Twenty years later, a similar wedding will soon unfold on April 29, 2011: the nuptial of Prince William (son of Prince Charles and Princess Diana) and Kate Middleton. Looking at them is like history repeating itself, but in a way correcting itself. Unlike Princess Di and Prince Charles, Kate and Prince William now are a picture of a couple so in love with each other, with equal love on their eyes, if I may exaggerate. 

Who is Kate Middleton, by the way? Well, unlike Princess Diana, Kate has no royal ancestry to speak of. She's a commoner, a daughter of hardworking individuals who happened to be very industrious so were able to provide well in life. 

The meeting of Prince William and Kate was not at all a result of any royal match making, rather, a spontaneous girl-meets-boy-boy-meets-girl kind of thing.  Who would ever guess they would finally end up in each other's arm? Like I said, we're just actors in a life story already written for us, that at times, no matter how hard you try to change the course of things, you keep coming back to the original story line. 

I say, this is what happened to our girl named Kate, England's next Princess. Who could stop it? After all, it's all written on her name: Catherine Elizabeth "Kate" Middleton. She was named after royalties at birth because she is really destined to become ROYALTY.

-- Ireen --

Liz Taylor Bids Goodbye

Although Liz Taylor was already the glorified, golden girl before I was born, I felt sad to know that she passed away. My parents actually were a big fan of hers, so I grew up hearing her name in conversations among elders and, of course, admiring her face on magazines and many movies that replayed on the television. She was at the pedestal of the women who have the prettiest faces, that I likened her to a fallen angel.

Dame Elizabeth Rosemond Taylor, in real life, Liz Taylor died at the age of 79 on March 16, 2011 in Cedar Sinai Medical Center in Los Angeles, California because of congestive heart failure, a condition wherein the heart cannot pump oxygenated blood enough for the needs of the other organs of the body causing failure of the kidneys to excrete sodium and other body wastes. If this happens, the body retains too much fluid that swells up other parts including the lungs, thereby causing shortness of breath.

Although Liz had experienced numerous health problems in the past, her life had always been as colorful as the world she lives in. She was a talented actress through and through; a wife to seven husbands; a mother; a grandmother and a great grandmother; a survivor; and a humanitarian and HIV/AIDS activist. 

I believe she lived life to the fullest and impressed the world so much that she can live anytime she pleases. May eternal light shine upon you, Liz!

-- Ireen --

Bruno Mars Live in Cebu and Manila, Philippines

When I see your face

There's not a thing that I would change

Cause you're amazing

Just the way you are

And when you smile,

The whole world stops and stares for awhile

Cause girl you're amazing

Just the way you are . . .

Yes, it's confirmed! Bruno Mars is definitely coming to the Philippines at different cities on the nights of April 7, 2011 in Cebu City, and April 8, 2011 in Manila.

Isn't that something to watch out for? Your, our coolest singer ever, who gave us hits like "Just the Way You Are" and "Grenade," not to mention his rendition in Travie McCoy's "Billionaire", will be holding two concerts on the said dates.

In Cebu City, the venue will be in the Waterfront Hotel in Apas, Lahug, while the Manila Concert will be held in the Araneta Coliseum in Cubao, Quezon City.

The concert is entitled Bruno Mars Live, The Doo-Wops & Hooligans Tour. Below are the ticket rates for both gig schedules:

Araneta Coliseum 

P6,150.00     Patron (Reserved Seating)

P5,280.00     Lower Box (Reserved Seating)

P3,710.00     Upper Box A (Reserved Seating)

P2,65000     Upper Box B

P850.00      Gen. Admission

For inquiries, you may call Ticketnet at 911-5555, or the promoter's hotline numbers in Manila: +63917-5555415; +63917-5555475; +632-5773265; and +632-5867275.

Waterfront Hotel (Cebu):

P4,999.88     VIP

P2,599.88     Gold

P1,299.88     Silver

P888.88     Bronze

You may call Waterfront Cebu for inquiries at: +(6332) 282-6888 Local BRUNOMARS, with hotline: +63922-8731043.

Bruno Mars' concerts will be opened by 29-year old Michael Copon, a budding singing artist of Filipino and German-American descent, who released “Let’s Get Nasty” on iTunes in September last year. Copon has appeared in the "Backflip" video of Raven Symone and in the famous "One Tree Hill" series. He also starred as Blue Power Ranger Lucas Kendall in “Power Rangers: Time Force” and “Power Rangers: Wild Force.”

Bruno Mars a.k.a. Peter Gene Hernandez is also half-Filipino, someone who's very worthy to be included in my blog; of course, this is on top of such amazing talent this man has! See him more in http://www.brunomars.com

-- Ireen ---

March 20 is Spring Equinox

Spring Equinox or the Vernal Equinox, which happens on March 20, 2011 at about 11:21 p.m. at Coordinate Universal Time (UTC), marks the first day of Spring season in the northern hemisphere, and autumn in the southern hemisphere.  The Spring Equinox is also known as the March Equinox.

We learned from our elementary science that the earth goes around the sun on its axis termed as Rotation. The Spring Equinox or the Autumn Equinox happens when the axis rotation of the earth or the earth's North to South pole linear form is parallel to the movement of the earth around the sun. And when this occurs, it means that the length of day and night is approximately similar, or 12 hours at almost all parts of the world. 

That is why the word "Equinox" is named as such because of its Latin etymology: "aequus" that means "equal" and "nox" which means "night" -- the time when the length of both night and day are almost the same.  

Equinoxes actually happen twice a year. That means there are two instances in a year when night and day are about the same length. While the Spring Equinox or Vernal Equinox is the first day of spring, the Autumn Equinox or Autumnal Equinox signals day one of the autumn season.

For this year, Autumnal Equinox will be on September 22. 2011.

God Save Japan

Watching through the Internet the tsunami that recently caused havoc in Japan made me shiver. It's like a scene from the two movies I've seen a year or two ago: The Day After Tomorrow and 2012 -- so apocalyptic, catastrophic, and so deathly.

For a while, work at our office took a standstill while we were glued to our respective monitors watching the horrific works of Mother Nature.

As of this writing, the Japanese people have started to account for everyone and everything that mean to them.  Destruction of property is very immense and the death toll is rising to more than a thousand. 

It is during these trying times that we
hold hand to conquer challenges of
Life, making us strong to face them.

In this country where tsunami has become a part of life, it was still tremendously taken aback by the power shock of an 8.9 magnitude earthquake on March 11, 2011, which was followed by a 33-feet high tsunami.

Severely damaged are those coastal areas near Sendai and Tokyo. Countries along the Pacific rim of fire, including Russia, New Zealand, the Philippines, Hawaii, were alerted for a possible rise of waves within the next hours after the Japan tsunami. 

While Japan is measuring the effect of devastation, the fear is not yet over, because of a leak on its Fukushima  nuclear power plant caused by the earthquake, which, according to news reports, could cause potential additional disaster if not addressed within the next 24 hours.

   

United States is preparing to help Japan; Los Angeles
firefighters hauling equipment to be sent to Japan
for relief operations.

Countries all over the world are starting to move and calling out everyone to help in the relief efforts for Japan.     God Save Japan and pray that no further harm befall.  

-- Ireen --

Meeting the Philippine President

I am lucky to have lived long enough to know, not through history class, six Philippine presidents, including the most recent one.

During the 2010 Presidential campaigns, I was positively vocal about the tandem of Mar Roxas and Noynoy Aquino. When the sudden shift of history happened, that's after the death of former Pres. Corazon Aquino, Noynoy's mother, and when everybody seems to be really reminiscing what the Aquinos have made for this country since the 1986 People Power Edsa Revolt, I became more passionate about the state of Philippine politics that I voted for Noynoy and Mar. 

In discussions among friends, I always point out that the Philippines has always been blessed because despite of the greedy, mindless leaders that have sat and ruled the nation, there has always been a Higher Being watching us, Filipinos.  

The toppling down of the Marcos dictatorship, the peaceful Edsa Revolution, the impeachment of Pres. Joseph Estrada, and the death of Cory Aquino are proofs that, indeed, there is "Someone" up there, watching over us, shaping our political story, and has always been levelling things for us when the going gets very rough for each ordinary Filipino.

Now, I am so glad that the Philippines is blessed with a leader in the person of Pres. Benigno Simeon C. Aquino, who I see to be very truthful in his words that he will never steal from our country's coffers.  

The Lady of Edsa: A monument of the 1986 People Power Revolt

Never for a single slim moment in my life that I would ever be given a chance to meet the President. The person, who had always been a common topic with and among my friends, has turned from abstract to a physical being, when I had to be part of a group that went to Malacanang Palace on February 24, 2011 for a forum with Pres. Aquino.

Photo Op with the President

I was very happy to be there, hearing the President's speech while sitting just about four meters away from him, and having luncheon inside the Palace, my, oh my, I said to myself, this is definitely something for the wall to be mounted for my grandchildren to know. 

A souvenir from Malacanang Palace

The forum was attended mostly by selected local mayors, national  government agencies, and foreign development funding agencies (WorldBank, Asian Development Bank, AusAid, JICA, Millennium Challenge Corporation). 

These mayors were from the different municipalities all over the country that were able to avail of the government's poverty alleviation program called KALAHI-CIDSS Project (KC Project).

In such forum, these mayors made a proposal to Pres. Aquino, saying, in principle, that  poverty can be addressed when a poverty-reduction mechanism like the KC Project becomes part of country's program. To know more about the KC Project, go to http://kalahi.dswd.gov.ph/

-- Ireen --

Buying Shoes for Kids

The number of times in a year that I run to the malls to shop for my kids' shoes can definitely be counted by the use of my fingers.

Shoes for Salve

My husband and I usually buy them shoes before school opening, of course, that's to match the school uniform, and sports shoes for the P.E. class.

Sometimes, we buy them another pair if an occasion calls for a specific kind. On top of these,  my kids each have two pairs: one for casual walking or strolling, and another for Sunday wear.   

It's part of our home economics that unless and until the kids' shoes are worn out that they get to have a new  pair. This part actually arrived for, at least, my kids' Sunday shoes. So, last weekend, we all spent scouting the Ayala Center (Cebu) for their shoes bearing in mind a set of criteria.

Shoes for Yentl

For Salve, her Sunday pair of shoes is among the latest in girls' flats from S&H: made of silver-dusted and pink-colored synthetic cloth, and with silver and red shiny studs design at ($8.86).  What I like about Salve's pick is its flowery in-sole. 

For Yentl, we tried about six styles but no pair fitted her, so we ended up getting her a Tweety silver-white-blue stride. The plus factor for Yentl's pick is that from $13.30, we were able to get the pair at $6.64. The in-sole is well-padded that makes very comfy.  And for both shoes, good thing they are all "velcro-ed", which makes fastening very easy.   

Having all two girls (Salve and Yentl) is quite an advantage for me, in terms of buying shoes, because I only have one department to scrutinize -- the girls' shoes section. If I have both girls and boys, I bet, I (as well as the saleslady) will have migraines while hauling boxes in the shoes department. That is why, nowadays, people resort to buying online as a very wise form of shopping; I completely understand their predicament.

When it comes to children's shoes, I find it best to do regular shopping with my husband. Other than the reason that he gets to pay for them, my hubby is a good critique.  Because he also knows our girls very well (quite expected for a father), he has a very good fashion sense in selecting the best shoes for my girls.  The common scenario is that, either I choose, he evaluates and approves, then if the kids okay, we buy them, or the girls get to pick, we do the critique, and if they're fine, we buy. Of course, there are negotiations and explanations in between, especially if the choices are too expensive.

As far as we are concerned, shoes do not reach the cashier's counter without our "pre-approval considerations." Actually, there are only two: (1) style and comfort that should always go together, and (2) the price, which should be justifiable for the kind of shoes to be purchased.

Style and comfort are twin criteria, hence should co-exist; absence of one will render one's purchase very  useless. This makes sense, really. Why? What would you do with a grand style when you're not comfortable with your toes in them? And it's going to pay less service when your shoes are fully comfy but transform you as somebody from either the circus or the outer space.  

Style, therefore, should not be taken for granted.  I always believe that shoes mirror a person, his character and personality, and that shoes are accessories that when used stylishly can enrich a person's self-esteem. 

Although my kids are still too little to talk about such big words as "self-esteem," I believe they are not too young for me to help them in this area of personality development. I only aim for them to grow up as normal as the other kids of their age, away from the ridicule of other people because of the kind of shoes they wear.

Price is a  big consideration. In these times, mindless shopping is a no-no. It's now a rule of thumb to be able to get something that's worth your pay, bearing in mind quality, comfort and style.  Do not ever splurge on kids' shoes (unless you're a billionaire), because their foot sizes grow overnight. In line with this, make sure to buy one size bigger so your child can maximize the length of time that she or he will be wearing them.

--Ireen--

Little Debbie's New Cloud Cakes

Tradition and nostalgic sweetness are the ways to describe Little Debbie snacks. These sweet morsels that you pack for school, picnics, and race tracks never fail to bring back sweet memories.  Indeed, both young and old endeared Little Debbie so much.

Just in time for this year's Easter celebration, Little Debbie brings for everyone the newest addition to its line of food products: Cloud Cakes and Banana Pudding Rolls. Find these latest snacks in your favorite convenience or grocery stores. 

Little Debbie's cloud cakes are made of golden sponge cake made even more delicious by its fluffy vanilla creme filling. Cloud cakes are individually wrapped and packed in a box of 10 pieces.

About Little Debbie

Little Debbie snacks are just among the food products that McKee Foods Corporation delivers to the market. Other snacks it produces are cereals, cookies, cream pies, granola and nutty bars. McKee is headquartered at Collegedale, Tennessee, USA.

-- Ireen --

Car Care Conversations

Kids at the Back Seat

It's indeed a manic Monday. On our way to the office, my hubby and I found ourselves stuck in traffic.

Rather than sulk ourselves while sitting in the middle of the city road jungle, we took the opportunity to work to our advantage.  We talked about the kids and how they've grown so fast, school, summer time, and plans to have our own house by the time we reach 40.  

While all vehicles that surround us are on halt, our conversation brought us to talks about dream cars. I told him that I don't have a dream car, and that for as long as a car serves me well, it's all fine with me.

My hubby is like any other modern men. He is an ultimate car lover.  If cars are given for free, perhaps, he would have the whole nine yards of every kind.

But, seriously, if you ask him about his favorite and ideal car, he would definitely answer: "a pick-up truck, the likes of Ford F-150". And when you would ask him why for such a choice, he would give you a convincingly concise answer with an acronym of 3Ms that stand for: Manly, Manageable, and Maintenance-low. And, such answer would definitely not go without any further explanation. 

As the traffic begins to sluggishly move, he still continued our discussion, saying that cars are like kids, and that one should take time to care and keep them in good shape. Like kids who need their monthly doctor's visit, cars, according to him, should be periodically taken to an auto shop to ensure that they are always in top shape.

"Do not wait for the car to bog down before going to an auto shop for repair," he says.  "Caring for one's car this way means low maintenance in the long run. And if you are looking for a car shop to mind for your car in California, the San Diego auto repair is highly regarded."

Our "car topic" paused for a while because of an accident we passed by. So, that explains the traffic congestion, I uttered. 

You know, my hubby continues, caring for your car also means keeping away from accidents. The chances of encountering an accident is very slim when your car is well-taken cared of. Do not disregard any signs of trouble like the ones given by the check engine light (CEL) of your car. You see, the CEL is like a red flag; most often, it spells danger if not promptly address to.

Our car care conversation, rather, my hubby's car care lecture, suddenly stopped, upon realizing that we were already in front of my office and it was time to jump out.  Enough for now, I told him, I'm sure this discussion will resume when we sit together again in the middle of a traffic congestion. I smiled at him and put a smack on his cheeks, before finally entering the building.

-- Ireen --

Dealing with Lice and Nits

What could be more irritating than the lice and nits on your kids' head? If this has not yet happened to your child, chances are, he or she won't get exempt, because these parasites know no gender, age or status. It infests anyone.

In some places, this a big deal among parents. A child can be subjected to ridicule, or much more, left alone by his classmates and playmates if he is found out to be with nits and lice. School administrators would usually advise parents whose kid has the infestation to clean up the child first before sending he or she  back to school.

I guess everyone had her own personal encounters with nits and lice. Hence, it would not be difficult to tell whether or not your own son or daughter has these. And what's the biggest sign? Of course, head scratching.

This is always a trouble for me, because every time my househelp goes home to the province, she gets back already infested. And who gets to suffer? My family, especially, my kids.  So, we now normally ask and check our househelp if she has lice. And if she has, we let her use lice-killing shampoo, or worse, ask her to cut her hair, if she happens to have a very long mane.

The life stages of head lice can be divided into three. It starts as nits or lice eggs that hatch after seven days before they turn into nymphs. Nymphs are the most itchy and very difficult to find that even a fine-comb cannot sometimes prove its purpose. They grow into adult lice in about another week.

Head lice survive on human blood. Its life span is about 30 days. If a louse (singular form of lice) falls out of the head, it will surely die in about two days, without its blood-food.

This infection can be treated by over-the-counter medicines usually in the form of creams or shampoo. But the most effective counter measure, however, is more on prevention.

Because kids are the usual victims of these parasites, we should teach our children some hygienic tips, like the non-sharing of combs, hats, scarves, and other personal belongings such as hair clips, pony tails or head bands. Also, treat members of your family having lice or nits as soon as possible before the infestation spreads to every one in the house.

At the first sign of nits on my kids, I manually pick on these irksome "grits" immediately and wash their hair using a head lice shampoo. Years ago, Quell was the only lice shampoo that I knew of. I am thankful that there are other choices available in the market now. For this kind of problem, my family uses Licealiz.

A product of Lamoiyan Corporation, Licealiz is definitely Philippine-made. The shampoo boasts of its conditioning formula that leaves hair soft, and a soothing coolness on the scalp. It is also non-toxic, hence, parents should not be bothered if frequently used, although it is recommended to apply the same twice weekly.

With this kind of product, gone are the hard days and hassle treatment just to get rid of those crawling irritants from our kid's head. 

Charice Valentive TV-Concert in Manila

For the first time on national television, international singer Charice Pempengco will sing to her fellow countrymen in a special concert entitled, "Charice, Home for Valentine."

The tv-concert will be aired on February 13, 2011 at 8:30 in the evening on GMA Network.

The musical special is plotted like an international concert that will showcase other Filipino artists like Ogie Alcasid and his better-half, Asia's songbird, Regine Velasquez.

Of course, included in her songlist is her hitmaker, Pyramid. The concert in GMA was originally scheduled in December last year but due to stomach flu Charice was unable to push it through. 

Charice is indeed home for Valentine, and she will be celebrating it with her family.

-- Ireen --

Hong Kong Disneyland Celebrates 5th Year

Join your favorite fairy, Tinker Bell, as Hong Kong Disneyland celebrates its fifth anniversary with the theme, 'Celebration in the Air'.

Special attractions are lined up for everyone to ensure total fun and excitement: "Tinker Bell Meet & Greet",  "Flights of Fantasy Parade", and Tinker Bell Castle.  

In "Tinker Bell Meet & Greet", you will get to personally meet your littlest fairy in her new garden at Fantasyland.

This is also a chance for you to see for the first time Sleeping Beauty's castle turned into a Tinker Bell Castle, magically pixie-dusted. This is a limited attraction as this happens only this year.

Lastly, watch Mickey Mouse in his magical airship in "Flights of Fantasy Parade" while he leads the flying parade of many of your favorite Disney characters.

Get your tickets or book now at Hong Kong Disneyland, and also discover its "Be our VIP" at Star Guest Program. Be there, or be square!

American Idol in Austin and City of Angels

Ending this week, American Idol barged in Austin, Texas, and Los Angeles, California, for Hollywood hunting.  There were bad and good finds; some were crazy and funny. But, what I'd focus now is only the good finds, particularly, power duos.

With the Hollywood auditions coming up, I observe a kind of trend that AI is getting into, unknowingly. What am I talking about?

First, there were Rob Bolin and Chelsee Oaks. Remember, the ex-boyfriend-girlfriend tandem? After a week, AI found again another interesting and talented partners: Jacqueline Dunfold and Nick Fink, who auditioned in Austin, Texas, and the Gutierrezes -- Mark and Aaron, in Los Angeles.

Unlike Rob and Chelsee, Jacqueline and Nick are very much together. Surely, the AI producers purposely made their introduction during the airtime as bordering on funny and contemptuous, as they make a slow-motion-very-much-in-love-run against the "hills-are-alive-with-the-sound-of-music" backdrop.

Looking at them on the boob tube, it's like seeing Hansel and Gretel in the set of The Sound of Music. But, mind you, they can sing really ... good, worthy enough for that H-wood golden ticket. 

Our next twosome are brothers Mark and Aaron Gutierrez. Definitely, there's no sibling rivalry here, because these two harmonize very well.  As brothers, they are depicted as unlike poles, but attract tremendously in the area of singing.  With their rendition of "Lean on Me", brushed-up with the perfect blending, the judges were humbly blown off, enough to give the brothers the aimed pass to Hollywood.

Last stop for AI is going to be in San Francisco, before the ultimate Hollywood screening. Perhaps, AI will be able to find more remarkable duos in the city of St. Francis to match with the other "power of twos" who were able to get in for the next round.

--- Ireen ---

Is Fortune Cookie, Chinese?

I went inside Cebu La Fortuna Bakery the other day for some snacks. The bakeshop was exceptionally busy.

"Not the usual days," I noticed.

Cartons of goodies are lining up on the floor, while a saleslady was trying to do her inventory. At the counter, there was a long line, all seem to carry a red box. I got near and looked at what's the "fuss buy" about. Ah, it was Chinese "tikoy", also known as Nian Gao or Chinese New Year cake made from glutinous rice. 

"Now, I get it," I said to myself. 

It's almost Chinese New Year, and those who will celebrate the event are hurrying up for that special cake, Tikoy or Nian Gao, which means higher year. 

I also liked to grab a box of it but, I'm not a fan nor fond of tikoy. Maybe, because I'm not Chinese(?). So, I went around, and found what I fancied: Fortune Cookies(!).

"This is perfect!", I told myself. My kids love to break those cookies and read the slips of paper inside.

At home, I researched about fortune cookies and other Chinese food, planning to write something about them.

And, just when I thought that these cookies are among the food specials prepared during Chinese New Year, I was definitely wrong. As I further my research, I found out that there is nothing Chinese about it at all.

A delightful combination of flour, eggs, sugar, vanilla, and oil, the Fortune Cookie as it is called is a crisp goodie with a piece of paper hidden inside. On the paper, words of wisdom, vague predictions, or lucky numbers are written that seemingly pertain to the person who opened and ate the cookie. This paper is actually the "fortune" in the Fortune Cookie that the holder either gets rid or take heed.

In other countries, the United States, in particular, Chinese restaurants often serve Fortune Cookies as desserts to their customers. But, don't you know that this cookie is not from China? So, where did it come from?

Although unclear, common historical accounts point the origin of this infamous cookie from Japan, as the first recipe used was a remake of a Japanese cracker.

In Kyoto, Japan, there is a cookie that looks the same as the present-day Fortune Cookie, although bigger, a bit darker, and uses sesame and miso. That cookie is called Tsujiura Senbei. From its edge, protrudes a slip of paper containing written wishes or fortune, just like our modern Fortune Cookie.

In summary, I may say that Fortune Cookies are born in Japan, adopted by China, and loved by the Americans.

--- Ireen ---

May Prosperity Be With You!

When most of us have celebrated the birth of 2011 a month ago, our Chinese brothers are just about to start their Chinese New Year at exactly 10:31 a.m. on February 3, according to Feng Shui experts.

Too bad, i'ts not going to be a non-working holiday. That means most of us are going to work like usual. Pres. P-Noy was reportedly inclined to declare it as a no-working day had the request came earlier. (Sob)

2011 as the Year of the Metal Rabbit is seen to be a good year. Here's why:

The Metal Rabbit is made of not just any other metal, it is actually a Golden Rabbit. Since it is made of gold, money is less of a problem because it can be sourced out easily.

The industry relating to arts and entertainment is predicted to flourish because of the rabbit's refined character and excellent taste.

The Metal Rabbit is a symbol of kindness and good behavior. It is also a listener and a lover of beauty. Because of its metal component, the rabbit is described as strong, focused, intelligent, and goal-oriented.

2011 is a peaceful and serene year. Chaos and misunderstandings will be resolved easily, in tranquility, sound discretion, and diplomacy.

Depending on what year you were born, 2011 can either be calm, bright or happy.

It's a calm and financially-rewarding year for Aries, Taurus, Gemini and Cancer, hence, it is good for finances and investments.

There's a bright perspective in terms of finances also for Leo, Virgo, Libra, Scorpio, Sagittarius, and Capricorn, as well as in any chosen endeavor or concerns.

The Aquarius and the Pisces, on the other hand, are expected to harmonize love and business together.

That's it! Kung Hei Fat Choi, everyone!

--- Ireen ---

Janet Jackson, Justin Bieber in Philippines Soon

I guess there's enough reason why Filipino performers, such as Ms. Kuh Ledesma, should gripe about this. Previously, I talked about the upcoming one-night concert of Taylor Swift; and you should know, she's not the only one coming over. There's more.

Prior to Swift's concert on February 19, Philippines will be seeing first Michael Jackson's dear sister, Janet Jackson. The concert, dubbed as Janet, Number Ones, Up Close and Personal Tour, Live in Manila, will be on February 4, 2011 at the PICC Plenary Hall.

After Janet, more foreign artists are scheduled to sing Filipinos on their way to the ticket booth. Like I said, Ms. Ledesma, among others, is not at all happy about this. More foreign concerts mean more competition, especially that Ms. Ledesma's concert, The Greatest Love Songs of Our Time Featuring THE DIVA and THE HITMAKERS, is also set in the love-month, on February 13, 2011 at the PICC Plenary Hall.

Many is supposed to be merry, right? But, what bothers Filipino artists is the fact that most, if not all, foreign concerts are very much received in terms of ticket sales compared to local performances. This, I believe, is influenced by the audience's idea that seldom would they see their foreign idols performing live, whereas there are many opportunities for them to see local artists here in the Philippines in other events.

I believe there's something that lawmakers can do about this, say, higher amusement taxes for foreign artists (?). But, for now, let's just try to leave the matter for the government to address. For sure, these foreign engagements can very well hurt the Filipino entertainment industry sooner or later, so, for our part, let's  support our own entertainers.

Other foreign concerts:

Kyu Jong & Young Saeng

And Story in Manila

February 5, 2011

PICC, The Forum 2

Deftones

Diamond Eyes Tour Manila

February 12, 2011

World Trade Center

Fra Lippo Lippi

February 14, 2011

Global City, Taguig

The YellowCard 

February 20, 2011

A-venue Music Hall

Park Mi Kyung

February 26, 2011

Newport Performing Arts Theatre

Anberlin

March 9, 2011

A-Venue Concert Hall

Planetshakers

March 12, 2011

Philippine Sports Arena

Maroon 5 

Live in Manila 2011

May 23, 2011

SMX Convention Center

Justin Bieber

May 10, 2011

SM Mall of Asia Concert Grounds

--- Ireen ---

American Idol in Nashville, Next Stop: Austin, TX

Let me think. (Pause). Frankly, I did not seem to enjoy the audition in Nashville, Tennessee, for the fourth leg of American Idol search. It is supposed to be the Music City, but I see that Milwaukee was better off, especially with the entry of Fil-Am Thia Megia.

Former couple Rob Bolin and Chelsee Oaks:
Will they find love again in AI?

The audition, according to Randy Jackson, was full of highs and lows. I believe it was lows althroughout. The city is definitely swiped clean of all its talented residents, and that it will take some time for it to replenish.  Nashville's next Carrie Underwood is definitely not yet born here, and I guess, we have to wait for the next seasons to come.  

In my humble judgment, I believe the worthy Hollywood "packers" should only be the ex-es Rob Bolin and Chelsee Oaks, and Jackie Wilson. 

As feedback, Rob Bolin and Chelsee Oaks are former girlfriend-boyfriend who used to sing together publicly in a band. They happened to sign up for AI and ended up rendering a duet number for the judges, while Chelsee's current boyfriend waits outside the door. Seems painful for Rob because no one is at the door to hug and congratulate him for his coveted golden ticket, except, of course, for Ryan Seacrest. The trio judges were truly impressed with them individually and as a duo; J.Lo kinda bet that this couple will soon find themselves in each other's arms, back again.

Well, the judges have called on the next batch for Hollywood from Nashville, which included Jackie Wilson, Rob Bolin and Chelsee Oaks, Paul McDonald, Matt Dillard and Lauren Alaina. 

Next stop: Austin, Texas

--- Ireen ---

American Idol in Milwaukee, WI

For this week, Randy Jackson, Steven Tyler, Jennifer Lopez, and Ryan Seacrest are in the Land of Cheese (and Beer) Milwaukee, Wisconsin for the continuation of the search for the next American Idol. 

Overall, the entire audition was, as expected, a minus-and-plus undertaking. Without mentioning those who were subtracted from the competition, some of the latest additions to batch Hollywood are:

1. Scott Dangerfield, the backroom kisser who can pass up for a young Clark Kent except for his bony legs. And he can substitute Shaggy, too, in Scooby Doo. As to the voice, hmmm, I’m not that impressed, unlike J. Lo, who branded him as her “favorite”.

2. Steve Beghun, whose last name is pronounced as “big goon,” can easily take the role as a real big goon because of his height and size. He is considered to be AI’s first certified public accountant. And when he is not pushing the calculator, he is enjoying his time singing at weddings and funerals. The performance was not okay for me, though.

3. Emma Henry, the 15-year old Cyndi Lauper wanna-be. Randy Jackson was not really carried away saying that although she has a voice, it needs to be honed. Randy  was almost ready to say “no” with concerns that the girl might get swallowed by the Hollywood auditions if he would say "yes". But, with the crying that Emma made plus Steven Tyler’s kitty lobbying, Randy Jackson put her through for another shot.

4. Jerome Bell, the Bar Mitzvah singer. I say, this boy has the talent and he is definitely should go to Hollywood.

5. Naima Adedapo, the janitor and toilet cleaner mom. I agree with the judges, she has the package to compete in Hollywood.

6. Thia Megia is my ultimate choice! So young at 15 years old but with a powerful voice, I am reminded of her of Charice, not to mention her Asian looks. With talent and good attitude she has, I say, Thia will surely make it through the top 12.

7. Molly DeWolf Swensen, the Harvard graduate, White House intern who “platonically” loves Barack Obama. She's now marked as the contestant that the Dawg accidentally hit on the face at one time during the audition. Well, Randy let her in for Hollywood, not because he hurt her, but, really, she has the voice, and er, the height. Perhaps, Pres. Obama will soon start watching AI if she gets further in the competition.

8. Scotty McCreery is one exceptional character because of his unique voice. The first kind I’ve heard in AI; so low and deep for a 16-year year old, a comment, which he gets a lot.

9. Chris Medina – the boy with a good voice, alright; but, he also has a great heart-breaking story to tell: a very pretty fiancée, who, after they were engaged to get married, met a near-death accident and ended up with a broken face and on a wheel chair. Though they are not yet married, he made a commitment to take care of his girl.

The entrance of Scotty McCreery, Emma Henry and Thia Megia came after AI reduced the age requirement for participants. According to Ryan Seacrest, AI is highly influenced by the Justin Bieber fever that producers decided to lower the age qualification to 15 years old. The new generation is indeed so talented that the Milwaukee audition was able to haul up many 15-year old contenders.

Next stop for AI is in Nashville, Tennessee.  

--- Ireen ---