Life in the Grind

OMG so crowded...

2010-06-21T00:31:00.000-07:00

The TOYCON 2010 was disgusting. It was so crowded. I actually had to wait in line to buy a ticket. I was told that prior to the opening the line up was all the way down in the 2nd floor of Megamall.

Yeesh!

There were so many cos players and browsers. I wish I had more time to browse but it was just too crowded, it felt like I was in a can of sardines. Luckily, I was able to picked up a few things...

But here's some pics of the event...

TOYCON 2010

2010-06-21T00:15:00.000-07:00

Been really lazy posting my hauls but I think it is fitting I put this up -

kakuranger (power rangers alien rangers) set from Toy Con 2010 (though the yellow is missing a sword, the white ranger is more of a yellow-white; due to age, and minor doodles here and there)

Here's all of it put together ( Minus the Kakure DaiShogun; in storage and the black battle borg; still don't have)

[L-R, T-B:Tsubasamaru, Chogokin Ninja Red, Muteki Shogun, Doron Changer, Battle Kark, Battle Saruder, Battle Kumard, Battle Logan, Ninja Black, Ninja White, Ninja Red, Ninja Yellow, Ninja Blue, Shinobi no Maki]

Contentment..what more...

2010-06-13T05:43:00.000-07:00

OK I find that this is a fine line. I live my life in contentment; meaning that I am happy and thankful for all that I have.

However, is my contentment due to the fact that I grow tired of fighting for something better? am I just complying to the lifestyle I have grown accustomed to?

What more could I want or ask for? I always figured: a place to stay, family and friends is all I ever needed. Though when I look around..it seems like that is no loner enough. I feel like I'm in a society that constantly beckons people to have more...more money, more cars, more power....

I am reminded of the same question I asked earlier in the week "to what end?" What is it that we hope to accomplish when all is said and done? What is the point of building empires? It can be seen in history that empires never last forever. Is it our hope that we leave our footprint on this earth, with hopes that people will not forget us?

In time everything will forgotten. Everything that ever was or ever will be...forgotten....

Gym rat ? ....who me...?

2010-06-11T08:35:00.001-07:00

It baffles me...its been 2 years since I started going to the gym religiously. 3 years running daily. Yet I don't see a diffence...I wonder why I still keep on going to the gym?

Only then did I realize that it's not just about working out anymore.

In all the chaos that goes on around, when I'm either running or lifting weights, I actually feel that I'm in control of somthing in my life. I may not see the results but during the one hour out of my whole day it's just about me....

The last few days has been really rough...I think I'm going to lay off the nyquil for a while. I find myself falling asleep relatively easy but waking up in the morning has been quite a challenge...

To what end?

2010-06-09T09:59:00.001-07:00

Everyday I always think that i'm walking a straight path to the next destination...though a year down the road i look back only to realize i have been walking in circles...

To what end do we live our lives for? What is your purpose..to some its seeing life as adventure...to others it's family.

I admire people who live for a cause...but to what end...
I admire people want to make the world a better place...but to what end...

Whats your purpose in the world?

Pics of my new stuff:

2009-11-30T05:31:00.000-08:00

Okay just so pics of my toys didn't get mixed in with my recap of November:

Hmm..can't seem to find the pics and their not in my camera anymore...grr...
AHA! My mac decided to steal all my pics and delete them from my camera...

KYORETSU-OH

Another Birthday Gift (assuming my dad is ok with giving me a toy for the occasion)This here is Kyoretsuoh..so he's like the "ancestral mecha" of the Go-onger. He is composed of a big Mamoth, a triceratops and a tyrannosaurus.I know it looks like a giant block but wait till you put all the the mechas from the series together..

ENGINE-OH G12!!!

This toy is a combination of My Brother's family's gift for my birthday (Last two years), a couple mecha that I picked up in Hong Kong, a mecha my cousin Claron picked up in Japan (it's authentic- my only mecha that wasn't imported), and my dad's Birthday gift to me (?)... all together you get : G12!!! This guys a Freaking giant brick (he doesn't event move)...and He's massive!!!!

...funny I thought I had more pics of toys for November...I guess that's it...till Christmas (or the first week of December)...

Nov.30 2009

2009-11-30T03:18:00.000-08:00

Wow November went by in a blink of an eye. So today was apparently a Holiday..one which I spent most of the time working...though got to say better now than later.
Its officially December in 5 hours and I haven't even had a chance to post up all the pics I had taken during November. But to recap the month:

Nov. 8- went to the wedding of my dad's 2nd cousins son (?) in the Mandarin ( of which I was not prepared to go to..therefore I have no pictures)
Nov. 15- another 2nd cousin had a wedding that I did not attend.

Our Green Belt 5 Lvl3 Gallery Event went on from Nov 13-19. That was such a great event. Must say the modules looked amazing....couldn't have asked for a better set up. Good job Johanna!

It was great fun and the craziness continued Nov. 16 was my Birthday (of which I had posted pictures already.)

Our guest from Malaysia was in town from the 16th to the 20th, unfortunately we didn't get to take any pics....maybe next time.
The 21st till the 29 we had our Green Belt 5 level 1 event...

.....while that was happening we had guests from Australlia in town from the 25th -28th. Went out to eat lots during these three days... also brought them to Amber lounge in the Fort Strip.

So from my memory the the places we ate at during the Month of November:

Mandarin Oriental- November 8
Housseins- November 16
Gaudi (2x)- November 19 and November 27
Some Italian restaurant in GB3 (the same owners of John and Yoko)- November 26
Intercon Lounge- November 26
CW lifestyle cafe- November 27
Amber Lounge- November 27
Legends (Their beef brisket just wasn't good this time)- Nov.28
Toki- November 29
Kaiseki- I don't remember when BUt am sure it happened in Nov.

It's almost been a year

2009-11-20T07:42:00.000-08:00

I can't believe it's almost been a year since I last posted. Anyways another year another Birthday gone by. I was actually awoken on the 16th to a great surprise. I got a call from a few friends from Vancouver...it was really nice to wake up to friendly and familiar voices. Anyways had to work on the 16 so I had a lot of running around to do that day. Bought Lunch for the Staff ( Had palabok from Red Ribbon and pizza from Pizza Hut.) We had dinner at Hussein's and it was yummy... I was so hungry that I forgot to take pictures of the food.

Speaking of which I actually had the Apple pie from Conti's this year (The one that I was eying last year) and it was yummy...I actually got two pies actually one we finished on the 16th and the other on the 17th.

Okay just for my own records I'm going to post the stuff that I got so that when next year rolls around I'll remember what I got .

From my Harris Johanna and Liam: I got the special edition Black and white Gunbir-oh. Okay so this guy compliments the gift they gave me last year which was the Samurai Engine-oh. Together I can actually combine them to form Engine-oh G6!

The set is made up of three mechas which were originally sold seperately, only diff. is that this is done in black and white.
Here's a pic of the mechas: Gunbir-oh and Engine-oh

I technically haven't bough my birthday gift for myself yet though I have made a number of purchases in the month of November:

12 inch Navy Thunder ranger and the Yellow Ninja ranger from PR Ninja StormNow I'm only missing the Blue and the Green 12 inch rangers from Ninja storm.

I was also able to pick up The Gold Rangers Zeonizer...after years and years I finally own a set!!! I haven't been able to take pictures yet but their just amazing (Take my word for it.)

I think that about covers it for now...more to come....

ALESSI Christmas party

2008-12-01T20:25:00.000-08:00

Just wanted to post some pics from our Retail Div Christmas Party.

Venue: ALESSI Boni High street

Food:

SNR- Pizza
* Hawaiian & Combo

Mercury- Pop
* Pepsi & Mug root beer

Conti's- Cake
*Chocolate cake and Strawberry Shortcake

RETAIL DIV.

[L-R: Cham, Alvin, Arvie, Jiggs, Gilbert, Mich]

*missing Marcus*

Games:
The guys got to show off their wrapping and product knowledge skills

Lookie..what we got...

Prizes:

3 x Adidas Hats
1 x Adidas Tote bag
1 x Adidas pouch bag
1 x Adidas basketball Jersey
8 x Toblerone Chocolate Bars

Gifts:
Bench Hair Products
Faceshop Cosmetics

Sunday Run Around

2008-11-23T08:31:00.000-08:00

What a sunday....
Left the house around 12 pm to go to Greenhills to check out new items in the stores. I was amazed that more "collector" toy stores opened up in Vira mall, honestly I think that thier all condensed in that area..maybe someone would consider opening in the Pasay area.

Anyway I was really lucky to find a couple things I really wanted.

1. loose reg. Human Torch from the ares wave:
I'm really stoked about finding the regular versoion..The super nova variant is sweet but now I have both =)

2. complete Blackarachnia TM 2:

Now this was the second version of Black arachnia to be released in the transformers sereies. Her first incarnation was a repaint of the the original tarantuals figure.

As you can see I now have two, I wreaked the original one that I got by wiping alcohol on some of the chrome parts...which led to the paint coming off. In addition when I purchased the first one it was missing a leg and it's spider mandibles.

All I'm waiting for now is TFA:Swoop and The Human Torch and Invisible Woman two-pack:

After Greenhills, I dashed over to Shangrila Mall, I was looking for a specific gift which I thought might be available in the department store...alas I was wrong. Though I must say that mall was packed, I never see that much traffic in the Makati branch.

Anyway because I wasn't able to find the "gift" I went to the Makati branch to pick it up instead. I can't post what I bought just in the off chance that the person who is getting it might be reading my blog ( Though I doubt it...)

Then off to Serendra to pick up my sister-in-law , we headed for Rockwell. This mall I really don't understand what the fuss is about, its a small mall and there aren't really any stores there that stand out...anyway didn't pick anything up there either.

Finally we headed for High street, okay not that I needed them but I bought three pairs of Adidas soccer shoes this week end,and I don't even play soccer. I also picked up a pair of Adidas track pants and the prizes/gifts for my staff Christmas party.

We had take out dinner at Zhu, it was nothing spectacular..food was mediocre... but if your craving for Chinese food and you live in the Serendra Area...they DELIVER!!!

So over all not a bad day ( I'm just afraid to see what my credit card bill looks like for December)

Hasbro Toyfair Recap

2008-11-21T17:26:00.000-08:00

Just a quick post...

I attended the Hasbro Toyfair event in MOA yesterday, I must say there are alot of G.I.Joe collectors out there.

L0ts of new GI Joes, Transformers, Old Marvel stuff, MLP, and Star wars...I wandered around to see if there was anything that interested me but I couldn't really find anything. Funny thing is that I had in my hands a TFA swoop...the only thing I was actually looking for, but I had to put it down because I realized I had a stupid Rustan's GC that I needed to use. I was hoping that more ML figures would be released...Oh well maybe next time...

Nemesis series:

Lots of Characters that have been released in the past...(ie. Daredevil, Punisher and Beast)

...nothing too exciting imho...Nemesis looks good I must admit..

More Stuff

2008-11-20T07:38:00.000-08:00

All right I caved and I decided to go all out with the Pokemon Candy Playsets. I don't really have time to open them up and take pics so I'm just going to post the images from the official site:

Pokemon Domino set-

All right this set is kind of lame, but I bought it because I had gift credit from a store. Now like the other sets, these pieces can combine with each other to form a domino chain. The set is composed of Pikachu, Tutwig, Puplip and Chimchar. Each character has a specific feature which allow it knock over the dominoes, though nothing spectacular for only P96.00 it's not a bad deal.

Shinoh Region Set-

Okay so this set is interesting, its composed of Pachirisu, Buizel, Starley, Happiny and Croagunk. The concept is simple, the set with Pachirisu has a shooter which launches the pokemon figure though the rest of the set. The frustrating thing about this set is that the Croagunk and Happiny set is pretty much useless. Not only that but each piece goes for P259.00

The Only set I did not get : Pokemon Water Park Set.

I'm really on the fence about this set, each set is P259.00. Unlike the other sets, these don't necessarily work together. They can hook up to each other but beyond that..it's just plastic...

Birthday Report

2008-11-19T07:04:00.000-08:00

Hmm another Birthday gone by and the best part is always what I got:

Well Daniel and Brenda got me an awsome shirt from Ben Sherman.

For those who don't know: Ben Sherman makes the best shirts ( IMHO) I have jeans, shoes, shirts, T-shirts and even belts...let's just say I'm a fan.

OKay that was my picture...but my pic dosen't do it justice..so I found one online

Ben Sherman is a British clothing company, producing shirts, suits, shoes, accessories and other items. The brand has been the fourth largest men's casual wear brand in the United Kingdom. Check it out when you get a chance to @ www.bensherman.com

Oh..they also bought me a yummy cake from Conti's ...this cake was massive! It was a banana torte:

It had layers of torte and banana and moose and cream. I wish i had a pic but I didn't have a camera with me. ( I'll just go to Conti's tommorow and take a pic)

..it was kinda crazy trying to get the cake..so Bren and I went to pick up the cake. When we got in there was just a mess of a line up, so we decided to go take a look at the selections..they had so many cakes to choose from ( French apple pie caught my attention...but it's called Birthday cake not birthday pie). Anyway we settled on a banana torte, so Bren went to the line while I tried to get one of the waitress' attention. Then this lady who was in front of me pointed at the same cake we had picked out...I wanted to yell out that cake was MINE! fortunately Bren was already at the cashier and paid for the cake. (Funny that when everyone is gunning for one item..it get's really exciting and the adrenalin kicks in ..and you'd be willing to smack someone..just for cake)

Next up is my Borther Harris, his wife Johanna and their new son Liam got me :Daishogun from the go-onger movie. For those who have yet seen baby Liam..here's a pic of the family and of Liam Harrison.

G0-onger movie: The film begins as Gaiark Pollution Ministers attempt to break the dimensional barriers that separate the Braneworlds, recycling 13 Barbaric Machine Beasts to help them out. The Go-ongers intercept the Barbaric Machine Beasts in their Engines, managing to scrap the 13. However, the Go-ongers get sucked into the Braneworld of Samurai World, a dimension similar to Edo Japan where power is essential. Attempting to find the missing Engine Casts of Speedor, Bus-on and Bearrv, the Go-ongers encounter a trio of mysterious warriors who are fighting Samurai World's ruler, Empress Maki.

The movie introduces the three new Wandering Engines who were robbed of hearts and Engine Casts by Maki's magic when they came to Samurai World, assuming human forms called the Flame-People. Once in their true forms, they are able to combine the Samurai World analog to the Go-ongers' Engine-Oh, Engine Dai-Shogun.

Okay this toy is just super cool...the black gold red color scheme works really well. I found this image online..since my pictures just never do the actual item justice (see left)
This robot combines with the others from the series...I'll take a pic when I get a chance to.

OKay Next up it the pokemon set Wai Wai island:

This was just a great toy. There is five pieces to the island set, when you get all the pieces you merge them together to form an island roller coaster. The island pieces include : pikachu, Manaphy, tutwig, chimchar and piplup. It's a really simple toy but its a lot of fun...I really recomend it ( if you want to see the online pic...just scroll down.) Each set is only P.219- but you got to find them fast becuase if you don't complete the island...it's kinda just lame.

Aight Finally I was able to pick up a few of the exclusive Marvel Legends figures: AOA Sunfire and Wal-mart exclusive Human Torch. Though I must admit I wanted the regular version of the Human torch.

Oh, just because I enjoyed the Wai Wai Island Pokemon set so much I decided to pick up the Pokemon Karakuri Castle. I Haven't had the time to set it up yet but here's what it looks like:

I guess thats about it for my 27th Birthday

Birthday Recap

2008-11-16T16:53:00.000-08:00

WELL it was the 16th of November yesterday, and I celebrated my 27th Birthday.
I can't believe that I have celebrated the last 3 years here in Asia.

Anyway it was pretty much like any other normal day it fell on a Sunday this year.
Woke up at 9 ( I got to sleep in because it's my birthday)

Went to Divisoria to have "Mami" @ Masuki's. AFter a hearty bowl of noodles we wandered to Divisoria Mall.

After Divisoria, I headed for MOA...Had a waffle and a Fruitee Slush at Lifestyle cafe in Ecom.

I went to SM, Toy Kingdom, and SM science center to complete the missing pieces of my Wei-Wei Pokemon island set . OKay this has Got to be one of the coolest Pokemon toys out there. You buy these individual island pieces..then you connect it together to form a roller coaster toy ( well it kept me entertained).

After MOA...headed off to Greenhills...

After Greenhills I went to Greenbelt 5 to check up on the new store Conlins: ELEMENTS- Lower ground floor of GB5- Zara Drop off.

Then it was dinner time: Went to Tanabe in MOA ( it seems like I go there weekly)

Then Back home....

It seems to have been a quiet day...

Gold Grip Phone and Dx Travelion

2008-08-17T05:37:00.000-07:00

Picked up a Gold Grip Phone =)

I'm prety happy about getting such a cool and hard to find toy.

But Travelion was disapointing...

The box was still sealed (though I think the last owner spilled windex on it because it stank, not to mention the big stain on the box. Anyway when I opened the box it noticed that there was a piece missing too =(

Going further Travelion is supposed to have a light and sound feature. His chest is supposed to light up, in my case the batteies in the toys leaked and after cleaning up the mess well..still no sound or light.

Though not a big deal because I just bought Travelion to complete the Magiranger mechas.

Boukenger

2008-07-15T19:52:00.000-07:00

Hmm not a bad haul. I was able to get Siren Builder, Zubaan, Dai Voyager, Gougou Jet, Gougou Crane, Gogou Drill, and Gougou Mixer. I'll post pics when I get a chance to =)

NO to the Iphone

2008-07-14T00:10:00.000-07:00

8. No Physical Keyboard. The virtual keyboard of the iPhone is so hard to use. I have been using the phone for a few months and it still a mess. Theres a "smart" memory where it helps you determine what your trying to type..but it's still inconvenient

7. No Memory Expansion. 8 gigs..my ipod is 40, my computer has 500...what an I supposed to do with 8 gigs...

6. No 3G. I have the original 1st version that was really expensive; new one is available though.

5. iPhone cannot record videos. It can take photos, crappy ones.

4. Music can’t be used as a Ringtone. you need to customize a ring tone through another program then upload it via itunes.

3. No way to cut, copy, or paste.

2. No MMS.

1. No msg Forwarding

Save your self the hasltle get a Nokia or a Samsung

( I hear the new samsung is nice )

PIcked up Snarl, Girmlock and Jazz

2008-07-13T18:49:00.000-07:00

Had a good weekend, I was able to find a voyager Grimlock and Deluxe Snarl and Jazz in Toy Kingdom in Greenhills. I'm quite pleased with myself ..though I basically ran to Toy Kingdom when I over herd two people saying that these figures were released locally.

Snarl- I love the robot and the triceratops mode. I always wanted to get Slag of the dinobots as a kid but never got a chance to, so I'm happy that I have Snarl. My only question is why does his weapon look like a cheeto?

Jazz- I had the original Jazz figure when I was a kid. Though all I could remember about it was that it was broken in half. Truthfully I never really like the character in the original cartoon,but in the new animated series he's a cybertron ninja from the elite guard...so I guess thats kinda cool..

Furnishing My New Desk

2008-07-07T00:11:00.000-07:00

I just got a new desk today!!! Yipppeeee!!!

Okay, so far I'm looking into buying this to make my desk look complete:

Trina Pencil Holder by Alessi

The Alessi Trina Pencil Holder designed by Hani Rashid in 2006, is an innovative multi pencil holder that puts a modern twist on the ever mundane office product. The Trina Pencil Holder is part of the Desktop Architecture Series, made of sturdy materials, these pieces have a clean and modern look that is a sophisticated addition to complete any desk.

OOOhhhh I want a DOZI too!!!! Should I get it in green or black?

Part of Alessi's comprehensive Spring/Summer 2004 Collection recently unveiled in New York, the Dozi Paperclip Holder designed by Mika Kim has a simple zoomorphic shape. Imagine a portly mouse having lost its tail, and you have Dozi. Sure to make a great desk accessory, this whimsical object will bring out your inner child. This piece features plastic construction and is available in fuchsia, green or black.

I can't wait =)

Alessi's Handheld Vacuum

2008-07-02T21:45:00.000-07:00

Slick. If cleaning turns you on, it just got better. This is not a new jet fighter o it's basically an Italian dust-buster. Designed by Stefano Giovannoni for Alessi, the handheld rechargable vacuum is made of stainless steel and thermoplastic resin (the white underside). It comes with an integrated crevice tool and a wet nozzle for even more fun.

I got one of these at home and it works like a charm...

Gekielephant, GekiShark, and Gekibat?

2008-07-02T04:05:00.000-07:00

Wow I wish they actually came out with these characters were in Gekirangers. I don't know if they will come out in Power rangers "Jungle Fury" but from this image they look amazing. Its a shame they were not in the original Japanese series.

Trailer Wolvernie and The X-men

2008-07-01T21:28:00.000-07:00

WOLVERINE AND THE X-MEN

Here's a brief description of this epic new action adventure series:

"When an explosive event shatters the lives of the X-Men and takes away their mentor, the beaten heroes walk away from it all.

But then they're given a rare glimpse into the future, and see a world in utter ruin, ruled by mutant hunting Sentinels. A world that spiraled out of control because the X-Men had given up.

So now the most legendary of all X-Men takes the lead - Wolverine! Reuniting these broken heroes, Wolverine embarks on the ultimate mission - to prevent the world's destruction.

To rescue us from ourselves. To save the future."

BIG LOVE by ALESSI

2008-06-27T17:57:00.000-07:00

Ice cream Bowl and Spoon designed by Miriam Mirri

BIG LOVE - Ice Cream Bowl by ALESSI
Designer Miriam Mirri created a large ice cream dish for lovers complete with a special double heart shaped spoon - so you can share your passion for ice cream with your loved one!

The idea being that you eat off one side of the spoon & your other half - eats off the other half!!! A rather eccentric idea that was developed in collaboration with Haägen Dazs ice cream gurus.

The Designer:

Creating pieces that offer each being another chance to live life to its fullest, Miriam Mirri has specialized in the design of pieces that exude emotion and feeling that translate to the lives of observers and consumers in a frequently cold, modern society. Her pieces for Alessi exhibit these fun-loving characteristics to the fullest and offer yet another chance for people to smile.

Upcoming Transformers Animated Figures preview

2008-06-26T20:24:00.000-07:00

1) JAZZ- second-in-command of the Cybertron Elite Guard. He came to Earth alongside Ultra Magnus and Sentinel Prime. Jazz is a trained ninja, and wields a pair of nunchuku in battle, he reminds me of Prowl...it would be awesome to put them side by side like..Black ninja vs. White ninja.

2) Snarl- Snarl makes a return in the Transformers: Animated series along with Grimlock and Swoop; however, this time he is styled like the G1 Dinobot Slag instead of the G1 Dinobot of the same name. Due to the fact that "slag" is sexual slang in the UK Hasbro will be releasing a triceratops toy named Snarl instead.
3)Swoop- I came across this image/preview of swoop which apparently leaked out.
I can't wait for these two Figures to be released...something to look forward to .

Tranformers Animated Blackarachnia Toy

2008-06-26T19:53:00.000-07:00

Blackarachnia transforms into a mechanical spider with some organic aesthetic. She features fairly effective light-piping for all four of her robot mode eyes, as the entire back half of her head is translucent red plastic. Many of her pointier parts are molded in softer plastic to keep unfortunate children from putting their eyes out. Her hands are not jointed at all, due in no small part to her slender wrists and the design of her transformation scheme. This limits her posability somewhat, but her articulation still allows for a wide variety of fairly natural looking poses. She comes with a grapnel hook accessory. This is spring-loaded, with a jointed claw at the end of it. Pressing a button causes it to retract along the string. It may be mounted on her abdomen in spider mode, or her back in robot mode, via two different sets of pegs. There are also a peg hole in each wrist, for a web slining action.

Just wanted to thank Mike for picking this one up for me at the launch date in Megamall !!!!

Paradise Birds Salt & Pepper by ALESSI

2008-06-25T17:59:00.000-07:00

The Alessi Paradise Birds Salt & Pepper, designed by Stefano Giovannoni, are hand decorated salt and pepper shakers which add a whimsical touch reminiscent of 18th century ceramic trinkets while still being utterly functional and contemporary. Part of the OrienTales collection, the Alessi Paradise Birds Salt & Pepper Shakers are made from durable thermoplastic resin molded in the shape of birds.

Shanghainese Food!!!

2008-06-25T02:01:00.000-07:00

I'm craving some good Shanghainese food. No such thing here in Manila, but I can look at pictures during my last trip to Vancouver. When your In Richmond BC you should stop by the following Chinese restaurants.

The restaurant is not elegant or high-end, and you shouldn't come and expect it to be. The place is in Ackroyd mall on no.3 road, so it's quite cramped. The doorway doesn't have a lot of room, so often people are crammed at the entrance trying to get a seat.

It was quite packed when I went there they offered a "shared" table but I declined. Anyway when I got seated They had these really yummy buns which are shaped like rosettes, which you then dip into condensed milk, and their Pork Knuckle was really good . It's a great restaurant and there's good reason it's always so packed. Try going at non-peak times if you're trying it for the first time.

Top Shanghai Cuisine Restaurant
8100 Ackroyd Road
Richmond BC
Tel: 604-278-8798

They serve authentic and delicious dishes from Shanghai, China. Reservations are a must, and consider going a bit early to avoid the rush.

The dinners are a good bargain, they have a section of entree dishes that go for $8.88. The portions are pretty impressive especially for being under $10. Their lettuce wraps are tasty too, they do offer it in chicken, duck, beef, and pork as well. The shanghai dumplings were very tasty, filled with pork and a rich broth.

I make it a point to eat here everytime I visit Vancouver. The chef here used to be the Chef at Shanghai Wind (across from Richmond Center) If you want to check it out they are open for dinner from 5pm to 9:45pm and for lunch from 11am to 2:45pm, closed Tuesdays.

Shanghai Wonderful Restaurant
110 - 8380 Lansdowne Road,
Richmond, BC, Canada
phone: 604-278-8829

Preview of G5 store

2008-06-24T03:05:00.000-07:00

Just wanted to give a sneak peek of the upcoming new store In G5

Conlins: Home Elements

Elements are principles of design, which are the building blocks used to create works of art. The elements of design can be thought of as the things that make up the core foundation of life and style.

Conlins:Home Elements acts as an axis for individuals who possesses an appreciation for unique luxury and designer products and brands. Conlins gives individuals the opportunity to find items, which convey their own personal message — without using words only speaking though their style. Each element contributes to the mood and the design of the space. For individuals, the quality of element is a fundamental expression of their own style.

“Can you identify each element in your own style...”

The Designer and Architect:

JoHanna Tracy Ang-Lim studied in the world famous Parsons school of art and design. She consistently pushes the boundaries of architecture and design. Her designs intensify existing elements in pursuit of encompassing all fields of design ranging from interiors to furniture. Carrying with her years of experience overseeing renovations and developments. She is renowned for brining each commission a fresh spirit, celebrating its distinctive characteristics, and enhancing the experience of daily living, working and playing. "Live, Life, Play..."

Green Light for Green Belt 5

2008-06-23T18:12:00.000-07:00

Green Belt 5: The country’s premier lifestyle haven, Ayala Malls' Greenbelt, provides a unique shopping experience to the chic and the savvy fashionista, the hardworking businessman, and the family. With its high quality, specialty shopping, dining and entertainment areas, the cosmopolitan consumer is rewarded with a space that mingles indoor and outdoor elements in fluid harmony. Greenbelt's roster of prominent, world-class retailers, restaurateurs, and entertainment operators makes it an unparalleled shopping and entertainment destination. This multi-awarded lifestyle center adds yet another premium and top-class development in the pipeline- the newest and highly anticipated Greenbelt 5!

We looked at a space that they offered us for Green Belt 5 and it looks great! Im really stoked about this new store, now all I'm waiting for is the negotiations to be done and over with. Anyway Construction will commence by the end of the month, and it should be up and running by September. I'll post a perspective when it becomes available =)

Jasper Morrisons Pots and Pans

2008-06-23T04:53:00.000-07:00

The new 'Pots & Pans' range by Alessi are a wonderfully simple looking pan set, that reveal fabulous innovative details. Designed by Jasper Morrison, the 'Pots & Pan' range includes everything from saucepans and casserole to frying pans and pasta pots. Each pan is made from stainless steel and features an aluminium and steel base that heats quickly and evenly. The true beauty however is in the small details like the flared lip for clean pouring, a lovely gentle curving base that's easy to get a spoon around, and the fabulous heavy lids that can be lifted by slipping a spoon under the distinctive handle. Durable and practical pans, the Alessi range is free of chemical coatings and plastic parts and offers an elegant and simple design perfect for any kitchen. Part of Alessi's new affordable range, A di Alessi, the 'Pots & Pan' are dishwasher safe. Available at ALESSI Store on Fort Boifacio High Street

Boukenger Vs. Gekiranger

2008-06-23T04:14:00.000-07:00

Finally this is available for download. I've been waiting for this movie to come out for ages. It was originally released in March of 2008 as a direct to dvd in Japan, I will finally get to see the swan song of the Boukengers!

In Juken Sentai Gekiranger vs. Boukenger (獣拳戦隊ゲキレンジャーＶＳボウケンジャー, Jūken Sentai Gekirenjā tai Bōkenjā?), the Gekiranger team meets up with the team from GoGo Sentai Boukenger. Dark Shadow's Shizuka of the Wind sneaks into SCRTC to steal a mysterious red jewel, leading to the Gekirangers confronting her. When BoukenBlack, BoukenYellow, and BoukenBlue appear, a battle among the three groups over the jewel occurs until Satoru Akashi arrives and takes the jewel. Soon after, Master Sha-Fu reveals that the red jewel in his possession is one of two that belonged to the evil Cosmic Kenpō Master Pachacamac XII (宇宙拳法の使い手パチャカマック１２世, Uchū Kenpō no Tsukaite Pachakamakku Jū Ni Sei?), who was defeated by Brusa Ee. Sakura, revealed to be possessed by Pachacamac, goes after the blue jewel in the Confrontation Beast Hall, and with Satoru, they battle Rio and Mele, who join them soon after to gain the power that the Cosmic Kenpō style offers. The Gekirangers and Boukengers team up to stop them, and Dark Shadow, before they resurrect Pachacamac.

Monday

2008-06-22T17:59:00.000-07:00

I hate Mondays, its always the start of a long week. There is always a lot of work to catch up on , but there is also the start or new episodes of some of my favorite shows.

So You think You Can Dance: Top 16 will be competing for your votes.

Go-onger: Sibling Battle!? When Nokogiri Banki returns upgraded as Chainsaw Banki, the Go-ongers and Go-on Wings must call upon a new ally, appearing the Go-on Wings mentor: Jum-bowhale.

Doctor Who: The Doctor's secret army of allies comes together to defend the Earth from the new Dalek Empire. With battles raging on the streets and in the sky, the Doctor and Donna confront the Shadow Proclamation to find the truth; however, a fearsome old enemy waits in the shadows.

Thats all the shows that I am looking forward to this week ...

Go-onger Mecha

2008-06-22T04:10:00.000-07:00

Okay I finally got some time to take som epics of my new toys =) I was really stoked that I found these when I was in Hong Kong. It took me along time to find Jetras and Triopter. But when I found them I was quite happy... then on my way back to Manila I happened to stumble on Carrigator in the Airport.

I was excited because Iwould never have imagined Toie using a chicken for of the themes of their mecha.

Engine Carrigator (炎神キャリゲーター Enjin Kyarigētā^?) is an orange-colored hybrid of an alligator and a trailer with a samurai persona, able to carry two Engines on his back. He ends his sentences with "Gator Gaator!" (ゲタゲータ！ Geta Gēta!^?). When fully introducing himself, Carrigator says, "The giant celebrity!! Engine Carrigator" (ジャイアントな千両役者！！炎神キャリゲーター Jaianto na senryō yakusha!! Enjin Kyarigētā^?). Being of the powerful and legendary Gian Clan, Carrigator can combine with any Engine without need of a human partner.

Carrigator: Everybody loves an alligator and a trailler. Overall The toy itself dosent do anything, you can insert the engine soul into his mouth and he will say a few phrases. He's long, orange, and pretty much forms the main body and head of Gunbir-O.

Engine Jetras (炎神ジェットラス Enjin Jettorasu^?) is Go-on Silver's partner, a steamlined black/silver hybrid of a tiger (トラ tora^?) and a fighter jet with a calm personality and ends his sentences with "Geeeeeeeeeeen!" (ギーン！ Gīn!^?, an onomatopeia of a jet flying by at supersonic speeds). With his wings and amazing offensive abilities, he can fire the Jetras Torahawk (ジェットラストラホーク Jettorasu Torahōku^?) cruise missile from the mouth. He can perform the Jetras Phantom (ジェットラスファントム Jettorasu Fantomu^?), creating clones to confuse the enemy.

Jetras: The color scheme consists mostly of a silver and black composition. You can insert a Jetras cruiser missle which can be fired from his mouth. He can combine with Engine-Oh and Toripter to form the left arm of Engine-Oh Jetripter. Also, he forms the left shoulder of Engine-Oh G9, with his rudder and elevators forming the head.

Engine Toripter (炎神トリプター Enjin Toriputā^?) is Go-on Gold's partner, a red and gold hybrid of a chicken (ニワトリ niwatori^?) and a helicopter with a lively prankster personality who is a master in aerial dogfights while ending his sentences with "Batabata Bata!" (バタバタバタ！ Batabatabata!^?, an onomatopeia of a helicopter's rotor blades whirring). With his rotor blades, he can perform the Toripter Batariot (トリプターバタリオット Toriputā Batariotto^?), firing a endless supply of bullets from his turrets.

Triopter: Overall the colors are amazing: the red offsets the gold tones really well. The robot itself does't do very much, it has a spinning helicopter blade. He can combine with Engine-Oh and Jetras to form the right arm of Engine-Oh Jetripter. Also, he forms the right shoulder of Engine-Oh G9, with his tails forming "goggles" for Speedor.

Tea and Coffee Towers Hong Kong 2008

2008-06-22T00:19:00.000-07:00

My last trip to Hong Kong ALESSI had brought in the TEA and COFFEE TOWERS exhibit in the Landmark by The Mandarin in Central.

It was amazing seeing all the prototypes in person.

Alessi's 'tea and coffee towers' project: a new landscape of objects designed by contemporary architects, an exhibition that combines the expression of architecture with the language of design.

The piazza is conceived as a landscaped tray, with vessels for tea, coffee, milk and sugar, nestling in its hollows. The ovals of the four components are formally seen as continuous surfaces that transform from handle to spout. The receptacles are luxuriously made of silver and the presentation platter is composed of an under-layer of dark orange plastic and a top layer of polished silver in which the reflections of the vessels undulate across the surface.

By UNSTUDIOS

Next week on Go-onger

2008-06-21T23:36:00.000-07:00

I was browsing the net and found th teaser to next weeks episode=)

They will be introducing the third Wing engine to go along with Triopter and Jetoras: together they form Seiku-oh

Engine Jum-bowhale (炎神ジャンボエール, Enjin Janboēru?)

A hybrid between a blue whale and a Hughes H-4 Hercules jumbo jet, with an alternate jet mode.

TEVA- Elixir 5

2008-06-21T07:57:00.000-07:00

This is not your ordinary flip-flop. With its waterproof suede upper on a go-anywhere rugged outsole, the Elixer is a compliment to any adventure. Built with comfort and support in mind, it’s the perfect everyday footwear.

Okay so when I was in Hong Kong recently I went to SOGO in Causeway bay. I wasn't looking for anything in particular....until I set my eyes on the TEVA Elixir 5. These are the most comfortable pair of flip flops I have ever worn. I had a pair in Vancouver but I wore them out already, I have been looking for this pair for about 3 years already. So I ask the sales person if they had my size (10) and just my luck they only had a 9 and 11. I was so tempted but I held off from buying them. After that I had spent 4 hours going around all the sport stores in Mong Kok, Central, and Wan Chai...alas the sandals have eluded me again.

If anyone out there in Manila knows where I can get a pair please let me know!

Saturday Night...I'm Bored

2008-06-21T07:00:00.001-07:00

Okay its Saturday Night, 21st of June and I'm sooooo...bored. I have How I Met Your Mother season 1 running in the back ground.

I wanted to go to the Transformers Animated Toy launch in SM Megamall..but I have no driver tonight..So I'm opting for the next best thing..I'm just going to watch the cartoon.

Just a bit on the series:

On their home planet of CYBERTRON, OPTIMUS PRIME and his crew AUTOBOTS are not heroes, they are loyal, dedicated, resourceful, hard-working, fun-loving 'regular bots.'

OPTIMUS PRIME dreams of excitement, adventure and somehow making a difference in the galaxy. Given his first command in an unremarkable sector of CYBERTRONIAN space over a ragtag crew of misfits including: BULKHEAD a lovable, gentle-giant 'strong-bot', BUMBLEBEE a wise-cracking, over-eager 'hyper-bot, PROWL an instinctual, intense 'Ninja-bot', and RATCHET a crusty, battle-hardened 'medi-bot.'

OPTIMUS PRIME gets more than he bargained for when the AUTOBOTS answer a routine distress call and suddenly find themselves in possession of CYBERTRON's most precious and powerful artifact, the ALLSPARK. The ALLSPARK is being pursued across the galaxy by the megalomaniacal MEGATRON and his army of ruthless DECEPTICONS, a brutal race of war-mongering robots who seek to use the ALLSPARK as their ultimate weapon of destruction.

Sworn to protect the ALLSPARK and their newly adopted home, the AUTOBOTS now have a huge responsibility to CYBERTRON and a super reputation to live up to on Earth.

Go-on Wings

2008-06-20T01:57:00.000-07:00

All right just to let you all know why I think Jetoras and Triopter are so cool, its because their piloted by The Go-on Wings- Go-on Gold and Go-on Silver I'll let you see for your self:

Back from Hong Kong

2008-06-20T01:09:00.000-07:00

HONG KONG: WET, CROWDED, GOT SICK...but I found my TOYS!!!

I arrived on Sunday and it was reasonably dry..then I hit up a few Toy shops in Mong Kok. I Had a great time found all the figures I was looking for.

I was able to pick up a go go jet from Boukenger for $98 HKD

And Both Jetoras and Triopter of Go-onger for $399 HKD

I'll post pics when I get a chance to later on =)

Look No Hands!

2008-05-19T21:50:00.001-07:00

I've been eying this watch for such a long time already. The design of the watch is amazing, it is designed by Ron Arad from the ALESSI watch collection. Anyway what really makes this watch different is that Ron Arad always searches for new and different constructions and functions of the objects he designs. In this piece he uses the rotating disks as the basis for telling time, in this unique design, the current hour and minute appear in two distinct openings that rotate around the face of the watch, revealing only a smart part of the artwork at a time.

ALESSI flagship store in the Philippines-
Building 5 unit E10-11 Fort Bonifacio Highstreet, Taguig
Ph: 632-856-4452

Craving for a good burger

2008-05-19T21:35:00.000-07:00

Aight..I woke up this morning craving for a Slpitz Burger....This burger was tasty!

*you actually get to "dress" your burger with over 20 toppings and sauces.
*also "Splitz sizing" your meal does NOT mean your getting teh splitz fries =P

If your along Main Street in Vancouver you should check it out!

4242 Main Street
Vancouver, B.C.
Phone: 604-875-9711