BIG Project for 2013

It's official.  I just accepted an order for one big project - my very first wedding cake.  Woohoo! 

It took me a long while and a lot of persuading before finally saying yes.  I had to think through a million times.  Am I ready for a project this big?  Am I equipped with the right skills and technique?  I can't confidently answer that with a yes but I can guarantee that my passion and determination will help me become prepared.  It's all that motivates me since day one. 

To be very honest I still can't imagine myself being in this position.  Who would have thought that someone like me who has never had any formal training could actually make cakes and sell them too?  Not even in my wildest imagination.  I tell you I've had so many failed attempts in the past that almost made me give up.  But there's always a reason why we make every effort worth a try.  It does help a lot when you love what you do.

Now three years after, here I am more positive than I have ever been.   

"What the mind can conceive and believe it can achieve"

This project may seem intimidating to begin with but I know in my heart this is going to be one exciting and remarkable first for me.  

Thank you Lord for your blessings! 

34th Family Day (Sep 23)

Guess it's about time I start blogging about our weekly family day again.  For some reasons, I've lost track counting since coming back from our much-spent holiday.  Well, I did try to keep up but I just couldn't find time to sit down and sort them out like I used to do in the past.  There are other more important matters I have to attend to, like going back to reading in between breaks from making cakes and household chores.  Fair enough.

Last Sunday, we were joined by Bunso and family over dinner.  The two kids, Charmelle and Ashlyn enjoyed playing with each other.  Quite unusual seeing them having fun, unlike the old times where they would always quarrel over a toy or just anything.  Now they seem to be in a harmonious relationship.  Somehow they have matured in their own little way.

Please click link for photos:  http://s929.photobucket.com/albums/ad136/sherylsantos31/34th%20Family%20Day/

Goodbye Apollo, Hello Triton

Anekh and Apollo in 2008

Apollo has been with us since October of 2008, at the time I was getting ready to migrate here.  Hubby knows very well the necessity and convenience of having a service car and that was the main purpose of us acquiring one though we opted to just settle for a pre-owned for practical reasons.  He was still in immaculate condition when we got him from another Pinoy who works at Fletcher as well.

In the last three years, Apollo had been a very reliable companion to us.  But it wasn't until early this year when we started to notice minor troubles.  Sorry if I can't elaborate on that.  I know nothing about cars, the same way that I am not interested in learning how to drive them.  The only thing I am sure of was the cause for him to finally breakdown.  According to the report handed to us by the auto mechanic shop, our car got to the point of a blown head gasket and it would cost somewhere between $1500-3000 to have it fixed.  OMG!  That's a lot of money.  We could have used him still to get around town or nearby place, but engine could just stop any moment and we don't want that to happen. 

Hubby was so bothered.  Clearly there was no other choice but to have it repaired.  While discussing what to do best, we arrived at one common decision.  And that was to get a new vehicle then just get rid of the old one (if anyone would want to buy it).  

That same afternoon, we searched various car selling sites trying to find something that suits our budget.  We have always wanted an Isuzu Navara ute.  But if not too expensive, most of them were on manual transmission.  We were losing hope... One phone call changed everything.  Chad mentioned about an add on the Weekender.  Without wasting another minute, I grabbed my phone and dialed the number.  The next minute, we were heading to McKail to check it out. 

The vehicle was parked right at the front of the owner's house and as we were getting closer I had this weird feeling that the perfect replacement was within our reach.  I let the guys do the necessary checks.  As per Chad's recommendation, the over-all condition is remarkable, apart from minor dent and scratches on the body.  Moments later, negotiation was already made.  

The following day, which was a Friday, after I have finished work, Hubby came to fetch me up driving his new big toy.  It seemed so much different from when I first saw it the day before than seeing it again for the second time.  The colors looked more defined now than it was.  And it felt strange having to clamber up the passenger seat.

Meet Triton.

Triton side-by-side with Apollo

It's been two weeks since he moved with us.  Somehow, we are slowly getting used to having a huge ute.  I know Hubby stills needs more practice with the U-turns and in-between parking.  He is improving.

Triton is now officially a member of the household because we had him blessed last Sunday, by our friend Parish Priest, Father Bong.  

Yesterday, on the other hand, the time has come for us to bid farewell to our much-loved Apollo.  He has to seek a new home that will repair and take care of him.  It's sad to have to let him go but that's the least we can do.  If only I have a strong heart to face my fears and finally consider driving, I would have kept him.  Thank you for the wonderful years we shared together...  Adios Apollo!

Anekh, me and Triton

And thank you Lord for all your blessings!

Click link for photos: http://s929.photobucket.com/albums/ad136/sherylsantos31/Triton%20ute%20blessing%2016th%20of%20September/

Project: 50th Birthday Cake

When this order came up, I didn't know whether to accept it or not.  

I've never done a 50th birthday cake before.  Unlike most celebration cakes that I normally do, I find this one a bit tricky.  There isn't that many ideas to choose from, even on the web.  The client has given me free reign but it just makes the planning even worse.  Maybe I shouldn't have said yes to this in the first place.  I was running out of time and initiative.  

Just as I was about to give up, one image from www. flickr.com solved all my troubles.  It wasn't that appealing but with a little bit of creativity it will transform.

And startingly, it did.

Project: Blossoming Daisies Cake

I'd like to share with you this cake I made last Sunday for a friend's mum.  No particular theme preferred, I just thought it might look pretty with cut-out flowers.

Got the idea from the web, I just had to change the colors that I used for the flowers and the cake itself. 

Project: Bananas in Pajamas Themed Cake

Third cake project I made over the weekend.  It's been a very hectic weekend for me.  Had to juggle all my tasks between my own two hands...  Had only a few hours sleep... Had sore legs, feet and hands... All these physical pains don't really matter to me.  What keeps me going is my enthusiasm and the mere purpose of all my hard work.  That is to deliver what the clients deserve. 

Client is a good friend of mine.  She asked me to create this cake for her son's third birthday.

I certainly had a lot of fun making these colored balls.

Would you believe at 3 o'clock in the morning I was still making the final touches for this cake?  Didn't really bother to check the time while I was too engaged in the project.  

In the end it was all worth the effort I put into this project.  Looking at the end result made me so proud.  Most importantly, the client and the little boy were both very please with it.

Project: LV Monogram Cake and Hello Kitty Cake

Two cakes ordered by one client, for her two daughters.

The oldest wanted just a plain square cake with Louis Vuitton monogram.  

 The youngest, another avid fan of Hello Kitty.

Project: Pink booties cake

The first time I saw the design, I didn't know if I should accept it or not.  There was nothing wrong with the design, it just so happened that there were three other orders lined up on my calendar for that weekend, in doubt if I could bear the work load.  But then, the client was a friend of mine, and I guess I just had to say yes. 

Other than the apprehension if I'd be able to manage my tasks wisely, I was also too concerned about how to bring out the best of my ability in order to deliver good results.

While working on this project, I tried doing it slowly but surely.  On the contrary, time was ticking faster than normal that before I knew it, it was almost midnight.  Took me four hours to finish and finalize all the details.

This has got to be one of my favorite projects, so far.  Personally, I love the combination of pink and white.  The pink booties were also pretty.  Have never done name blocks before, client requested them and they were actually easy and fun to make.  

Project: Something blue cakes

Coming back from a much-spent holiday it felt a bit weird making cakes again.  Six weeks break from all the mixing, kneading and decorating.  It seemed so long.  I actually missed not being able to do what I love the most.  

Though oftentimes it could get too draining and I would complain about having too much stuff on hand, still, nothing beats the inner joy it brings to me once all done.  A simple thumbs up could wipe away all the weariness and fatigue.

I was very delighted when these two cake orders came in.  They were both for the same client.  No theme specified.  I just thought I'd call them "something blue cakes".  

Yakimix Buffet Dinner (July 13)

Branch: SM City North-Edsa

I have seen quite a few people put photos of this place on Facebook. Upon knowing that it is a buffet restaurant with korean and japanese food choices, our urge to try it got even stronger.

Together with our good friend, Cloudy, all three of us had the biggest dinner I could ever imagine. As soon as dinner started (5PM), we were one of the first customers on queue at the buffet table. Tried our best to pick only the good ones but they all look so delicious. So we ended up filling our plates with almost every single food item.

I don't really have a big appetite for an eat-all-you-can dining experience but after finishing the first plate, I could feel my belt gradually getting tighter. Then I noticed that Hubby also slowed down because he was feeling the same way. Still managed to fit in some tempura and salmon. Though I personally had to pass on dessert even if it was against my will...

Please click link for photos:  http://s929.photobucket.com/albums/ad136/sherylsantos31/Yakimix%20Buffet/

Enchanted Kingdom (July 14)

My sister planned of going to EK that Saturday morning together with the kids and us. Even before coming home she was already telling me that she wants to take her kids to experience the magic of Enchanted Kingdom.

Coming from far north to Sta. Rosa Laguna we were lucky to get there before 4PM. It rained so hard while we were at SLEX but stopped after a few minutes so the kids were like "yehey!". I could see joy and happiness in their faces as we entered the place. They wanted to try even the most scary space shuttle, but none among us adults wanted to take the ride with them *laughs*. I had the courage to try it many years ago but I would never wanna try it again. I'm pretty amazed that kids nowadays are inclined to be adventuresome at extreme sports.

We stayed to watch the fireworks. I just noticed it wasn't as extravagant as I had seen it before, few years back. The kids did enjoy it though. We left the place with uplifted spirits because it's not very often that we get to experience this kind of escape.

Please click link for photos:  http://s929.photobucket.com/albums/ad136/sherylsantos31/Enchanted%20Kingdom%20July%2014/
 

Hong Kong Tour Day 3

Last day in Hong Kong... I wish we had more time to see other beautiful places around.  Those three unforgettable days were over in just a snap.  There were so many things we didn't get to do because of insufficient time, like the thrill of taking the public transportation such as tram, MTR and double-deck buses and ferries; visiting Central's bazaars; trying out noodle bars and a lot more.  I shouldn't be reminding all these to myself.  It will just make me feel bad.  But on a lighter note, I know in my heart that I was able to make Amay happy.  I have never seen her so overjoyed.

Woke up to this fascinating sight again.  Somehow I've come to appreciate the view.  And I love looking at Tsing Ma bridge from afar.

To start our day, we had breakfast at a nearby Cafe de Coral, using our breakfast vouchers.  We had a feast. 

As soon as we got back to the hotel room, we started packing our stuff so we could check-out before 12noon.  The hotel allowed us to leave our luggage at the lobby.  Don't fret.  I had the same concern.  I can assure they were very well looked after.

While waiting for a cab,  Amay and I went camwhoring.

just realized we were both wearing floral summer prints

Headed to Mong Kok street market.  They say it's the counterpart of Divisoria in Hong Kong.  From our hotel, it took us about half an hour by cab.  Got there while most stalls were still being put up so we figured out they don't open until 12 noon.  But there were some that had their items out on display already.  Aimlessly, I picked one wallet to see closely what it was made of but immediately put it down.  We were gonna resume walking when the saleslady called our attention.  Using a calculator in her hand, she typed in a certain amount for the wallet.  Started at HK$200 then went all the way down to HK$50.  But because I had no intention to buy it, I kept saying no to her and tried to walk away but she was so persistent.  To get out of the scene, we just said to her that we haven't gotten any local money but she still insisted on taking us to a money changer nearby and won't let go of my hand.  Hubby then firmly interfered and said we gotta get going.  The lady must have felt the authority in his voice which made her recoil.

Went back on the road to continue walking.  Streets looked so busy, people walking back and forth in all directions.

street foods

After having lunch, we decided to go back to the hotel.  It was still early so we took a stroll through the Sky Garden.  We wanted to come down to the pool area but we couldn't find the path.  

Soon it was time to go.  We were fetched by the tourist coach from the hotel to the airport at 5PM in time for our 7:30PM flight.  It felt sad leaving but I know those wonderful memories will always bring a smile. 

Given the chance, I'd come back over and over again to HK just to eat egg tarts.

Notes:
Rambler Oasis Hotel website -  http://www.ramblerhotels.com/oasis/Index-en.htm
Log pose Travel and Tours Co. - http://mytrip.logpose.com/

Hong Kong Tour Day 2

Woke up to a drizzly Wednesday morning in Hong Kong… The picture of a perfect city tour vanished in my mind.  Putting that aside, there was a far more important reason to smile about and celebrate - our 4 years of wonderful marriage.  That was another reason why we wanted to have this trip.  In the previous years, we always make it a point to do something special together on this day, whether over dinner or a trip somewhere we have never been.  

We all had a good night sleep from the night before. Amay was the first one to get up and had had a shower already by 6AM. As expected, I was the last one to get ready. We were given breakfast vouchers for Café de Coral, but due to inadequate time, we opted to fill up our stomach with some instant cup noodles.

The coach service was meant to arrive at 7:45. They did come on time. There was just a little bit of a wait for another group joining us in the coach. Turned out there were only six of us altogether for the entire tour.

As part of our city tour, a very nice and soft-spoken lady named Olivia served as our tour guide. Bits of info and brief history about Hong Kong she shared with us.

First stop: Avenue of Stars or Hollywood Walk of Fame. It is located along the Victoria Harbour waterfront in Tsim Sha Tsui. Set into the promenade are plaques honouring the most famous Hong Kong celebrities, like Jackie Chan, Jet Li and Bruce Lee.  Some plaques contain hand prints and autographs of the stars set in cement, but most of the plaques only contain celebrities' names as they are now deceased.  The location is also great for capturing a stunning panoramic view of the Victoria Harbour.  

Daytime panoramic view of Hong Kong Island

We were given only 10 minutes to walk around. It was still drizzling but that wasn’t a hindrance for us to make the most of our short stop over. The harbor view made the best backdrop.

Second stop: Aberdeen Fishing Village and Sampan Ride.  Took us ages to reach this point.  We just sensed we were getting closer because of the strong smell of water, mixed with stinky fish odor.  Sorry for the description.  Went straight to a Sampan or boat, where a lady beckoned us to the seats.  I was so amazed at how the driver can manage to smoothly navigate the "boat" in between ferries and fishing boats.  Some old-fashioned junks and house boats where the fishermen live during the season surround the harbour.  There were also the modern yacths.  Sampan Ride was HK$60 per person.

Jumbo Floating Restaurant

Third stop: Hong Kong Jewellery Factory.  If there was one thing about the city that we didn't like at any rate, it  would be our stopover to this shop.  First of all, I honestly don't see the significance of having to go there.  Quite obviously, we had a hunch that it was like an arranged agenda to sell their gold products to tourists.  Sorry but their strategy didn't work with us.  

Fourth stop: Souvenir Shop.  I fell stupid for not remembering the name of the shop.  The tour guide just said we were going to a souvenir shop then the coach brought us to some narrow street in the city which kinda looked like Ongpin.  Small shops that sell practically everything from socks, shoe laces to fancy jewellery and kitchen wares can be found on both sides of the street.  With Olivia leading the group, we followed her up to the third floor of a plaza where the souvenir shop/food store was situated.  Apparently, this was another marketing tactic.  In our own effort to help them, we bought some food items and souvenir shirts, fully aware that their prices were ridiculously dearer than most shops elsewhere. 

The photographer guy who joined us at The Avenue of Stars took this photo of us, along with two other photos of me and Amay and all three of us.  Only to find out that he was gonna sell them for HK$180 per memorabilia plate.  

with the photographer guy and Olivia our tour guide.  Big revelation on the last minute that they were actually a couple, as in husband and wife.

Fifth stop:  Hong Kong Disneyland.  The child in me was rejoicing.  "This is it!"  Thank God the sun was out, just got a bit warm though. We had to walk from the parking area up to the park main entrance,  which was about 20-30 minutes.  Throng of people from all ages, including us, were there all smiles albeit the extreme heat.  As we made our way in, the magic of Disneyland unveiled itself, as if taking us to an entirely different world where only bliss exists. We were very fortunate to get there on time for the fantasy parade of Disney characters.  So full of flamboyant colors, animated dance moves and entertaining music suddenly made everybody stop.  Immediately grabbed my phone and took video of it.  Disappointingly this caused our camera lens auto-function to collapse.

Despite having to manually focus the lens every shoot, the yearning to capture every spot possible continued.  Due to the number of photos we've taken in Disneyland alone, it would be impossible to put them all together in a collage so I thought of categorizing them.  Made a patchwork of images for every park attraction.

Main Street, USA

Adventureland

Grizzly Gulch

 Toy Story Land

Fantasyland

Tomorrowland

Me and Amay with the fairytale castle behind us

It was a long and strenuous day.  I could tell Amay was pretty exhausted from the warm weather and all the walking we did the whole day.  I kept asking her every now and then if she was alright but she never uttered a word of complain.  She enjoyed the trip and that's what matter to me most.

The much-awaited fireworks display marked the culmination of one super memorable day we will surely cherish for the rest of our lives.  I feel truly blessed to have shared it with the two most important people in my life.

Hong Kong Tour Day 1

Just got back two days ago from one super exciting and memorable trip to "The Spectacular" Hong Kong.  At this very moment, I still can't get over the whole fun and experience.  Feels like it will take a while to sink in to my brain that it's all over...  That's fine, I'm still on holiday anyway.  But those three wonderful days we stayed there will surely last a lifetime in my memory. 

This trip had been planned some six months ago.  I needed that much time because I wanted to take my mom with us and to make it possible, she had to get herself a passport.  My mom is 67 years old.  With the help of my niece, she was able to complete all her requirements as first-time applicant.  In less than a month after her personal appearance at DFA, her passport was delivered right at our doorstep.  According to my mom, they had provided a "senior citzen lane" to assist applicants of her age, which I never knew existed even before at the old DFA building.

Initially, my mom didn't know that she will be going to Hong Kong with us.  All along she thought that her getting a passport was some sort of preparation for her visit to Australia in the future.  It is actually, but, for her first travel abroad, I'd like her to see Hong Kong.  When I finally blurted out where we were going, she was just as excited as I was.

Tuesday, the 17th, our flight was scheduled at 0755H.  Would you believe at 6:30AM, we were still in Katipunan?  Gosh,  I never expected traffic in Manila could be this worse.  My head was gonna explode in so much worry.  What if we miss our flight?  I can't afford to disappoint my mom, my hubby and myself.  In silence, I was praying for God to make a way.  I looked at my watch again it was almost 0700H, we were still in C5!  Part of me was starting to break down in panic but managed to keep my calm.  I know God heard my prayers.  At last, I could see TERMINAL 3, shouldn't be far away.  Exactly 0710H when the car pulled over at the departure gate of the airport.  We have arrived but wait, where do we check-in our baggage?  Asked one of the guards and he immediately pointed out the direction to us.  I was literally running.  Upon reaching the counter, the lady said they've just closed but they could still take us.  Thank you God, thank you, you are so Good!

We flew with Cebu Pacific.  Used to flying with big aircraft, it was a bit weird sitting in a rather less comfy airline seat, without the adjustable headrest and the personal entertainment system fixed to the back of each.  Not that I was expecting to see them on a small-haul aircraft.  Another thing I noticed and this really made me laugh at myself out of embarrassment, was the free refreshment.  I should have realized that they don't have that on this flight.  We could have brought our own breakfast with us, instead of paying Php50.00 for one instant cup noodles and Php30.00 for a can of soft drinks.  I ended up paying Php500.00 for all our meals. *laughs* 

After almost 2 hours flight, which seemed shorter than our travel from Caloocan to the airport, we landed at the HKIA.  I could see the glow of happiness in Amay's face.  

while at the airport waiting for the tour guide and on our way to the coach parking are

Throughout the entire travel in the coach, we couldn't help but be amazed at how impressive their infrastructure facilities are.  The image below is one example.  Frustrated though that we didn't get any good shot of it.

Tsing Ma Bridge - 8th longest span suspension bridge in the world. Two deck carrying both road and rail traffic.

Got to our hotel, Rambler Oasis, before noon time.  This was the site that greeted us - a port.  Isn't it a lovely view to see from your hotel window?  I was really disappointed.  Had I known beforehand I would have opted for another hotel.

Rambler Channel Port Area

 On the contrary, the hotel lobby wasn't too bad.

To make it more unfavorable, we weren't allowed to check-in until 2PM.  At least they let us leave our luggage while waiting for two more hours.  Not a problem, we could have lunch and by the time we finish, it will be 2.

The hotel has shops in the basement.  There were three cafes to choose from but this one had more patrons in queue that even extends out the door.  I supposed they serve better food than the other cafes.  Our only concern then was how long do we have to wait, because obviously the kitchen looked very busy.  Surprisingly, it only took about 20 minutes or so. 

Cafe de Coral , largest Chinese fast food chain in Hong Kong. 

At last, room keys were handed to us.  On our way up to the 23rd floor, I was desperately hoping our room won't be another failure.  We booked the Superior Room and so this was what it looked like.  Image on the bottom right was taken from their website, whilst the actual image is the one on the top right.  Looks totally different in the actual, doesn't it?

Before hitting the road and officially starting our adventure, we spent an hour or two of rest.  Amay instantly fell asleep while I was busy unpacking our stuff.  She was tired from all the walking and running we did all morning.

First stop:  Hong Kong Park - Located in Central, about 30 minutes away by cab from our hotel in Tsing Yi.  Paid HK$120, inclusive of HK$20 tollway fee.  Just imagine how far away we were from the city.  We actually had to cross over  the islands of Kowloon and Hong Kong to get to our destination.  It was fun though, just like we had a quick tour around the city.  First timers in Hong Kong will surely enjoy skyscrapers view.  Every building looks exceptionally tall and distinct.

Hong Kong Park is a haven of greens amidst a bustling city surrounding it.  The park features an aviary, a greenhouse, fountains, lily ponds, playgrounds and cafes.  Its location provides a very relaxing atmosphere. No entrance fee needed to get in.  Amay and I took every chance to enjoy such a beautiful place.  Felt quite sorry that hubby had to do the honor of being our official photographer.  He didn't mind doing it for us, at all.

skyscrapers at night

Second stop: The Peak Tram and The Peak - Trip to Hong Kong won't be complete without taking the most adventurous railway experience I have ever had in my entire life.  Rail ride alone makes my knees shake what more when it's ascending at an inclined angle.  For the sake of getting the best view of Hong Kong especially at night time, whatever it takes, I'll do it.

The queue seemed endless when we got there.  Looking around at the crowd, I could see mostly youngsters, although there were quite a few not-so-young ones.  Soon it was our turn to get on the tram.  We sat at the last row.  As it began to climb up the mountain, my grip was getting tighter and tighter on the handrail while trying to divert my attention on something else.  "I should be enjoying this".  I glanced at Amay and Hubby, and they were both alright looking out the window.  Slowly shifted my eyes to the right and all I could say was "Wow!".   Reaching The Peak, we were in awe witnessing the views of one of the world’s most spectacular skyline.   Hong Kong is even more beautiful from up there.

skyline view from Observation deck

So, it was a loooong day!  A day full of new and wonderful experiences.  Thank God for the opportunity to see different places.  Spending it with my love ones made the whole trip even more memorable and pleasurable.

For more of the photos, click on this link to my Facebook page.  http://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.4268108669281.179534.1483015948&type=1&l=712bd712b2

P.S.  On our first day touring around, we've had encounters with Hong Kong nationals that weren't very nice to write about, but thought I might share with you anyway.  Being tourists, I think it's normal to be extra observant about how people act, behave and communicate with one another, so that we know how to deal or approach them.  I don't mean to be judgemental.  I just can't help but notice how some locals are uncordial and unsociable.  It doesn't bother me that they can't speak English confidently but I reckon they should be more friendly in their gestures.  Most of them don't even know how to smile at customers or even say a simple greetings of hi and hello. Went to a convenience store and McDonalds, but got the same hostile treatment from the staff.  And there was this lady guard at The Peak Tram, we wanted to ask her where to buy tickets from but she answered not even in English, raising her voice so loud, as if we could understand what she was saying.  Then pointed her hand at us and motioned us to fall in line.  She was really rude.  Just saying... I may be wrong with my observations but I have my own explanations.