Red Ribbon recently launched its Roses and Kisses cake –that puts two Valentine iconic items in one delicious chocolate pound cake.  This chocolate fudge and chip filled pound cake is decorated with beautiful sugar roses on top and creamy Hershey’s Milk Chocolate (PHP 330, Junior size) –what other Valentine gift can say “you’re special and sweet” at the same time?  And it’s edible too!

Wait, there’s more!!!  You can also personalize your cake with your name and the name of your loved one.  Simply place your order before February 9, 2010.

I love chocolates.  I used to be so addicted to dark chocolates.  I’m so glad that MS Word now reads chocoholic like it’s been included in the language since Wordstar.

I used to love Royce chocolates back in 2005, when it was still not that popular in Manila, but when friends started giving me this continually (particularly Pebbles from AFC), my Royce chocolate collection started building up in the fridge and I began looking for something else. 

My favorite chocolate for 2 years now -Lindt Swiss Thins in Dark Chocolate.

Red Ribbon’s latest offering raises the bar high when it comes to delivering the best chocolate cake.  Chocolate Heaven (PHP 500 – regular, PHP 335 – junior size) is everything the name promises to be –it’s all the favorite chocolate components rolled into one.  Brownie, mousse, icing, and curls, is there room for more?  It’s the most chocolate-y ever!

The chocolate is not overly sugary sweet, which I really like because too much sweetness just doesn’t cut it out for me.  Taste the lip-smacking chocolate flavor in different levels.  4 kinds of chocolate goodness in one cake!  Pair your Chocolate Heaven with Red Ribbon’s choices for hot brews –and get the right bitter and semi-sweet combination. 

Ooh, sweet dreams are made of this!  Let’s just see if Bubba gets me one, he knows how high I can get with chocolates – the uncontrollable giddy-ness starts!!! …and he gulps ;)

Both cakes are available in selected Red Ribbon stores beginning February 7, 2010 and nationwide beginning February 9.

Red Ribbon Album

*Big thanks to Jonel of NomNom Club and Let’s Go Sago for the invite to the launch!  

X-tras:

Photo Contest

Check the Red Ribbon photo contest at NomNomClub site

http://nomnomclub.com/red-ribbon-chocolate-heaven-photo-contest/

Submit your entries here =>

http://nomnomclub.com/red-ribbon-chocolate-heaven-photo-contest/submit/

Please read full mechanics here =>

http://nomnomclub.com/red-ribbon-chocolate-heaven-photo-contest/mechanics/

Fan Page

Join Chocolate heaven’s Facebook Fan Page   =>

http://www.facebook.com/pages/Red-Ribbon-Chocolate-Heaven-Cake/290916372887

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The day started early as I met the other Gawad Kalinga participants at the Fort.  We visited GK Poveda and were tremendously inspired by the transformation of the lives in that area (more on this in a separate post).

CW picked me up right after the Gawad Kalinga session and we headed straight to Burgos Circle to try out the restaurants there.  After parking, we walked towards the strip of restaurants.  An SUV suddenly stopped in front of me and a voice from inside called my name, “Jane!”

Jane: (upon seeing who called) Oh, hi Ace!!!  Hello!!!

“Ace”: (smiles)

Jane: How are you?

“Ace”:  (smiles) Okay naman.  Dito ka rin?  (asking if I live in the area)

Jane: Aah, no.  We’re just grabbing something to eat.

Jane: (babbles) Long time.  Hey, I know I haven’t really gone to your ultimate Frisbee clinic at Meralco but I really want to.  Was just super busy last year.  But I’m really going this year.  It’s my new year’s resolution –to finally do it.  So Frisbee.  Yes.  I’ll text you.  See ya.

“Ace”: (smiles and nods and waves “bye”)

CW and I continue to walk towards the restaurants.  5 steps later, I stop in my tracks, gasp and put my hand in my mouth… I look at CW with horrified eyes, realizing that THAT… wasn’t… ACE.

Jane: (wailing) OH NO!!! He wasn’t Ace.   (Admittedly, I am so bad with names and faces.)  

I didn’t get over it the whole day.  So utterly mortifying.  Earth, please just open up and swallow me whole.

We finally decided on Jozu Kin. 

On the Table

Shredded Kani (Freebie)

Miso Soup PHP

Chahan Moriawase PHP 85

Japanese Mixed Fried Rice

Kani Wasabi Maki PHP 239

Crabstick, Wasabi-filled, Panko crusted with Togarashi Mayonnaise

Ushi Ebi Tempura Crunchy Roll with Teriyaki Drizzle PHP 204

Green Mango Shake PHP 96

Service was not really impressive.  CW even found a grain-size piece of plastic glass in the Japanese mixed rice and almost nicked his tooth biting into it.  We told the wait staff so the manager at that time offered to replace the rice.  I was neither happy with how they handled that but I couldn’t be bothered at that time.  CW almost digested that hard insoluble plastic and all you could do is blame it to your supplier?  That’s the easiest escape goat that restaurants offer as a reason.  Good thing, we weren’t in the eating mood and didn’t order as much as we usually do because the food that we ordered was far from being excellent.

Jozu Kin

Unit ES-2 Forbes Town Center,

Burgos Circle, Fort Bonifacio

(632) 403 1875

Jozu Kin Album

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Flood of Love Outreach Program

January 9, 2010

10AM

Ark Avilon Zoo, Ortigas

Lunch

Ark Avilon Tour

Storytelling | Card Making Activity

Stop Dance

Bring Me Game

Distribution of Loot Bags

Picture Taking

Nothing can start the year right than sponsoring kids (from Payatas affected by Typhoon Ondoy) to a tour in Ark Avilon Zoo.  Bubba and I sponsored three kids between us for Chai’s outreach project for Junior Chamber International Makati Princess Urduja (lady chapter of Jaycees).

Other than the small sponsorship/contribution, we also volunteered to spend our Saturday with the kids in their numerous activities.

Madz’ fave girl

My fave girl

Best dancer

At the end of the program, each kid gave a card he/she made for his/her sponsor.  How cute!

I can’t wait for my team-up project with Madz for our birthday outreach program.  RSCC Feeding! 

Ark Avilon Album

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Big Chill has always been my favorite since college.  I remember always getting strawberry or strawberry and kiwi fruit shakes just before movie dates at Greenbelt 3.

Big Chill now has Fresh Bar that offers healthy freshly made sandwiches and soups. 

My lunch for today: Cheddar Cheese Pimiento PHP 45

I was supposed to get sandwich and soup combo but their soup for the day is Lemongrass Fish Soup, which didn’t sound appetizing so I just got 2 sandwiches.

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There is so much to say about my Maddie.

But I will keep it simple like she is.

We get each other’s jokes, talk about anything under the sun, and go to the wrong movie premieres together

She is like a little sister to me.

Open about everything and shares every aspect of her heart to me. 

—

You are blessed because you have a good heart

and a beauty that more than meets the eye. 

I love your endearing smile, simple sweetness, and genuine care. 

Thank you for being a part of my life. 

You are a great friend.

A sit-down is a must to discuss our birthday outreach plans. 

Basically, I just want a reason to see you

because it’s been more than 9 days since the last I saw you…

and my wacko self wants to see you everyday.

Happy Happy Birthday to a Beautiful Soul!!!

“Sole” Sistah Madz Alsola, you are loved.

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Looking at celebrating Valentine’s Day beyond the cookie cutter?

This year, step out of the chocolate box and sail off  into the sunset.  Romance your date on a very special Valentine’s cruise and express your love in a unique way.

They can accommodate up to 10 couples (20 pax). Price per couple is Php 4,000 (Php 2,000 per head), inclusive of buffet dinner and drinks.  Available dates are February 12, 13, and 14.

FEBRUARY 12 (Friday)
EVENING CRUISE
Assembly Time: 7:30 PM, Manila Yacht Club
Departure: 8:00 PM
Arrival: 11:00 PM, Manila Yacht Club

FEBRUARY 13 (Saturday)
SUNSET CRUISE
Assembly Time: 4:00 PM, Manila Yacht Club
Departure: 4:30 PM
Arrival: 7:30 PM, Manila Yacht Club

EVENING CRUISE
Assembly Time: 7:30 PM, Manila Yacht Club
Departure: 8:00 PM
Arrival: 11:00 PM, Manila Yacht Club

FEBRUARY 14 (Sunday)
SUNSET CRUISE
Assembly Time: 4:00 PM, Manila Yacht Club
Departure: 4:30 PM
Arrival: 7:30 PM, Manila Yacht Club

EVENING CRUISE
Assembly Time: 7:30 PM, Manila Yacht Club
Departure: 8:00 PM
Arrival: 11:00 PM, Manila Yacht Club

For inquiries and bookings, Call or SMS Raymond at 0917 5808800. Reserve your slots now!
*Reservations will be accepted starting February 1, 2010.
**Reservations will be held up to 2 days only. 50% downpayment is required to confirm your slot.
***Pictures from our past cruises available upon request.

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I’m in the mood for Japanese a lot lately and since we were at Shangri-la Plaza Mall, there’s not many other choice so we decided on Sumo Sam –much to Bubba’s delight.  I’m not a big fan coming from a few not-so-happy dining experiences here in 2008 –slow service, fingers almost touching the food, etc.  But I thought of giving it another try before our movie night that evening.

Setting is basically still the same –full-length mirrors, wooden tables with matching chairs in a modern Japanese motif.  The wait staff is still cloaked in black ensemble.

On the Table

Gindara PHP 329

Local gindara or black cod marinated in sweet sake ginger sauce.  I love gindara and it’s one of my gauge of a good Japanese restaurant.  With its clean delectable fish meat, Sumo Sam’s gindara did not disappoint and I almost finished it all by myself.  I love the light sauce and the crispy lightly salted skin.

California Maki PHP 189

It’s quite interesting how Sumo Sam makes their California maki.  There’s mango and lettuce inside the seaweed rolled rice square, but instead of placing kani inside as well, they place it on top with a lot of fish roe.  I love fish roe.

Beef Enoki PHP 208

Generous amount of enoki mushrooms wrapped in thinly sliced beef with a touch of brown semi-sweet soy sauce.  Enoki are golden needle mushrooms with silky texture and mild almost fruity flavor.

Katsudon PHP 188

A bowl of rice topped with deep fried breaded pork cutlet with egg and condiments.  Of course, Bubba’s perpetual Katsudon that I really don’t get.  Every time we eat at a Japanese restaurant, this is all he orders.  I don’t get it.  And he always orders Tonkatsu sauce on the side.  Lovable.

Service was much better this time around.  It was a good selection of dishes that night (except for the Katsudon har-har) that definitely satisfied my Japanese craving.  Got quite a yum at Sumo Sam!

Sumo Sam

Shangri-la Plaza Mall,

6^th Level, Gourmet Walk,

EDSA cor. Shaw Blvd.

(632) 729 6292

Sumo Sam Album 2

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More Photos from the Virlanie Foundation Christmas Outreach:

Photographer: Madz Alsola

Date: December 20, 2009

Venue: Virlanie Foundation House in Makati

Time: 2PM – 7PM

Games…

Stop Dance

Who’s moving?

Peace bro!

Genuine Smile

Candid

Cutesy

Kweng and Issang

Smart MJ

Goody Treats

Briefing without a brief? LOL

Candid

Session

Grouping

With Kweng from Cali

Group with Maddie

Berks + Madz and Friends + Me + Bubba = Christmas is in the Hearts

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February 1 is my favorite date of any year.  Why?  It’s my birthday!

On this special date, yesterday, I turned a year younger but more learned and stronger. 

As expressed in my SMS response, many many (many pacquiao) thanks for your greetings folks!!!  Super touched by the people who called, texted and messaged.  Truly appreciate being remembered on this special day.  Your well wishes warm my heart.

The planned HK trip didn’t push through so I had to retract my leaves that was set until Feb. 4.  I didn’t pay for the ticket (8K roundtrip) but I still felt a bit sad that plans have changed.  I picked myself right up though because there’s just no room for being sad when God has blessed you with another year in your life (I just hope that this year moves slower than last year.  2009 breezed by.)  On that note, the canceled HK trip only meant that I was blessed to meet the Jabbawockeez on my birthday!   I was so ecstatic that as soon as the group turned their back, I couldn’t keep myself from hopping in glee in the middle of Greenbelt.  You strike out, Energizer bunny!

Wockeez, you are the rockstars of the dance floor!    \m/  I heart you guys!!!

I’ve never done a birthday wish list and it crossed my mind earlier when dee boss treated me out for a birthday lunch with the team…

My birthday wish list:

1. Dongle (Sun or Bayan)
2. Oral B Electronic Toothbrush
3. Bath and Body Eucalyptus Handwash -Aromatherapy line (smells soooo good!)
4. Nivea Facial Night Cream
5. Pablo Neruda book
6. Red Jumper Straps
7. 100 HUGS

Yes, I’m easy to please. 

Oh, and I finally got a copy of The Little Green Book by Phil Gordon!  It was a birthday gift.  Tee-hee *blush*

The best gift I received though was…

(Written note from Joyce)

I know I was still groggy waking up from sleep when you handed me this but… Joyce love, you are the rockstar in my heart!

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Celebrating Valentine’s Day can give people a real headache.  Between the traffic and the prices and the overwhelming need to be dressed up and romantic, what once started a celebration of love can soon become a disaster of epic proportions.  This is why ABBONDANZA has worked hard to come up with a menu that is both filling and reasonably priced, available not only on Valentine’s Day but throughout the entire month of February (beginning February 5, 2010 till February 28, 2010).

Below is Abbondanza’s Special Set Menu for the whole month of February. 

Abbondanza Valentine’s Menu for the Month of February

(beginning  February 5 up to February 28, 2010)

Option One

Appetizer

Prosciutto e Melone

Sweet juicy melon wrapped in rich salty prosciutto ham

Soup

Minestra

Velvet Cream of Pumpkin soup accented with bits of pancetta and Italian spices served with cocoa foccaccia

Entrees

Risotto Trio

A hearty sampling of our best-selling risotto dishes

Risotto con la Fondutta

The grown-up version of a childhood comfort food – arborio rice is cooked and simmered in a sauce of mixed Italian cheeses

Risotto al Funghi Porcini

Arborio rice cooked with a blend of wild mushrooms, basil, parsley, and cream

Risotto con Sogliola

Fillet of fish gently seasoned, lightly pan-fried and topped with a splash of lemon contrasts with a generous helping of creamy yellow risotto

Pollo Arrosto

Italian-style slow roasted chicken served with root vegetables

Dessert

Panna Cotta

A smooth mix of cream and milk cooked down to subtle perfection. Served with berry sauce and topped with fresh blueberries

Choice of Bottomless Iced Tea or Lemonade or a glass of our house red wine

P888 (All-inclusive, Good for Two)

Option Two

Appetizer

Prosciutto e Melone

Sweet juicy melon wrapped in rich salty prosciutto ham

Soup Course

Minestra

Velvet Cream of Pumpkin soup accented with bits of pancetta and Italian spices served with cocoa foccaccia

Pizza Course

Heart-Shaped Pizza

Wear your heart on your plate. Pizza professing your love, and your tastes, any flavor of your choice

Pasta Course

Capesante Erucola

A light yet hearty pasta dish, fettucine pasta cooked together with fresh scallops, fresh tomatoes and arugula

Entrée

Salsicce al Vino Biance with Creamed Baked Potatoes

Our best-selling Italian sausages served with baked potato layered with cream and mozzarella. Love at first bite.

Dessert Course

Panna Cotta

A smooth mix of cream and milk cooked down to subtle perfection. Served with berry sauce and topped with fresh blueberries

Choice of Bottomless Iced Tea or Lemonade or a glass of our house red wine

P888 (All-Inclusive, Good for Two)

*Subject to change without prior notice. For reservations and inquiries, please call 633-6336.  

Let me know if you tried this Abbondanza Valentines Promo folks!

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