A Movie That's So Hard to Forget: My Amnesia Girl

From the looks of the trailer, one could compare My Amnesia Girl to Drew Barrymore and Adam Sandler's 50 First Dates because Irene (Toni Gonzaga) did not recognize Apollo (John Lloyd Cruz) when they bumped into each other at the supermarket.

Fast forward to the movie, Apollo is a networking executive who almost "has it all" except for the girl to share it with. During his friend's wedding, he sensed his loneliness when his whole barkada has their own happy relationships. The boys (Joross Gamboa, Carlos Agassi, JM De Guzman, Ketchup Eusebio) were all looking out for a perfect pair for him but no one passed his standards. When they were all dwelling on Apollo's ex-girlfriends, they all reminisced one special girl whom he loved the most but was left alone in the altar, Irene.

Meeting at a speed dating service, Irene is a photographer whom Apollo set his eyes on during the event. They quipped pick-up lines such as "Miss, naniniwala ka ba sa first sight?, eh sa second sight? Pwede" and "Siguro kung bola ka, hindi kita mashoo-shoot, kasi lagi kitang mamimiss". Corny as it maybe, but Toni Gonzaga and John Lloyd Cruz's body expressions make the audience go "awwww" and laugh out so loud every single time.

After a few days, Apollo stumbled upon Irene at a grocery and asked her how she was. But then she replied "Sino ka nga? Magkakilala ba tayo? May amnesia kasi ako eh". The latter was stunned because there he is, standing face to face with the girl whom he hurted the most and couldnt even remember a single thing about them. Lucky for him, he used the opportunity to get close to Irene again thinking that he has a second chance. Too bad Irene thinks otherwise.

Just when they were getting close again, Irene filled Apollo with a story that her friends told her before her "amnesia" happened about the guy who stood her up in the altar. She mentioned that she waited even after the guy walked out on him because she thinks that he would come back to her. But going home devastated, she met up with a car accident and then she couldnt remember anything since that day. Apollo, still didnt have the courage to tell the truth, said "Baka akala niya pag kinasal kayo, puro kayo nalang, wala na yung AKO. Sa huli ko na lang nalaman na mas hindi ko pala kaya pag wala ka". Then I cried because I think I heard that line before. :(

So in Apollo's effort to make up to Irene, he devised a plan to bring back the 27 years that were lost to her during the accident. A birthday party celebrating the milestones of her existence. The 18 roses was the best part of it.

I'm giving five stars to this movie. I applaud Toni Gonzaga's emotions during the film and how she manages to show her sorrows. John Lloyd was all over amazing. He's a natural to dramas like this. And we all thought this pair up was weird? Well, they both jive together. They're both goofy together. I guess that's the magic in it. Even their friends are the best! Bea Saw is so cute in this film. You know her tiny voice makes me wanna love her and crush her at the same time. The funniest of them all is Joross Gamboa. Even in JLC's previous movies, (A Very Special Love, You Changed My Life) he was always the guy who throws super funny retorts that makes the audience die of laughter.

Will Irene finally remember Apollo and his past? And would Apollo finally tell the truth? Watch Amnesia Girl to find out and get kilig all over the team up of Toni and Lloydie. :)

Delightfully Sinful: KFC's Double Down

Last night, I joined the bandwagon that is Double Down. The craze that started weeks ago made this sinful dish a whopping sold out for almost a week. A friend of mine went to this KFC store near his place and he couldnt order at 3:00 PM because they dont have the sandwich anymore.

The KFC Double Down Sandwich is an exceptional meal of "two thick and juicy boneless white meat chicken filets (Original Recipe or Grilled), two pieces of bacon, two melted slices of Monterey Jack and pepper jack cheese and Colonel's Sauce".

KFC Original Recipe® Double Down Nutritional Content are as follows: Calories: 540, Fat (g): 32 and Sodium (mg) 1380. Meanwhile, KFC Grilled Double Down has: Calories: 460, Fat (g): 23 and Sodium (mg): 1430.

See why I said its sinful? My diet will go ka-blam with this baby. Its good alright, the chicken is so tender, the cheese mixes perfectly with the dish, the bacon though, was slightly tasted. The only catch is, its oily, salty and fatty. Mine was sweating with oil and I needed to eat rice with it just so it wouldnt grease that much. Oh and a tip while eating it? More gravy and water.

Four stars for this amazing breakthrough in sandwich history. But definitely good to share with your date. Share your blessings, share the fats. :P

The Beginning of the End: Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows Pt.1

Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows Part 1 is the seventh installment to the Harry Potter Saga. And by far, I think it is the best HP movie ever!

David Yates gave a full blown production for this movie. Eventhough the scenes were not made in 3D, the settings, vivid sceneries and the darkness of the film were depicted beautifully. Somehow, you would learn to mourn with the movie, not because of who dies during the fight scenes, but because of the gloominess of the once "almost perfect" Wizarding World.

Daniel Radcliffe (Harry Potter), Emma Watson (Hermione Granger) and Rupert Grint (Ron Weasley) were amazing as ever. Harry Potter showed his feelings and despair well due to the loss of the people who matter to him (Dumbledore, Sirius Black, His Parents). In his longing to search for the Horcruxes, he presented his desire to defeat Voldemort (Ralph Fiennes) and journeyed with him, even in all his frustrations. Hermione and Ron were simply fabulous. Their expressions and movements blend well with the story. Especially the part where the Dark Lord was testing Ron of his insecurities. The kiss though, was over the top, full on weird. It was so sensual that it made my jaw drop then and there.

My favorite scene would probably be the one with Dobby in it. As usual, I cried buckets afterwards. Second to it is Bill and Fleur's wedding. I loved how happy they were and that would probably be the scene where they tried to be happy even if they are dwelling in war. I also am raving on the kitchen scene, where George saw Harry and Ginny kissing. Probably the highest point of the comedy scenes. The chapter, The Seven Potters were so funny too! Oh and Hermione's story telling The Deathly Hallows. The scene was so epic and the visuals were so inviting.

I am rating a five on this movie. And let me end my review with a wise quote from Ron, "Twilight? Mum said midnight. Midnight’s better than twilight." Yes, folks, I would never trade HP over Twilight any time of the day.

Catch Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows Part 1 if you haven't seen it yet. It is definitely the best movie 2010's ever had. :)

One More Day To Go...

And its Harry Potter movie time once again. Since I have waited for a year to watch this, I'll make sure to go to the movie theater tomorrow, November 18, on its first day of showing. And I know that this one will truly be a tearjerker (well, the Part 2 will mostly be), but the fact that too many characters in this movie will die is enough for me to whip up the tissues. One last movie to go and its bye bye Harry Potter already. But for most years, the magic stays with us. And Harry, Ron, Hermione and the other cast will forever be in our hearts. For sure, I'd be passing their stories until the next generation. :)

We will miss you Harry! :D And as a parting line from Dumbledore in the last book, "Of course, its all in your head Harry, but it doesn't mean that it's not real", Harry Potter and his adventures will always be real in our hearts.

Have an Enchanting Christmas at Enchanted Kingdom!

The Magic Stays with Us! :P

Its been a year or two since I've been to Enchanted Kingdom. Then I decided to visit the place once again to experience new adventures with Jeff. And to have much fun, I invited my favorite lovebirds, Karch and Jet and threw in Lester with us. The result? An exhausting but definitely an exciting day for the five of us!

Big Swings, Big Fun!

We first went to the Flying Fiesta. The fact that I love swings always make me love this ride. But somehow, when you get old, you couldn't appreciate rides like these so much. Good thing I haven't been there for a while, so I kind of missed the fun in it. :P

Keep Rollin', rollin' rollin'!

Next up, the Space Shuttle Max. I love roller coasters that much and I love a guy who would hold my hand when the ride starts to get bumpy. And that time, I enjoyed Space Shuttle because I know that boyfriend is beside me. Well, minus him being so noisy during the entire ride. My brother was seated at the front, by himself. Really, he had the strongest guts among us. But if only the lines are not that long, Karch would have wanted to experience the front row. :P

Happy Feet, Happy Rialto

At the Brooklyn Place, Rialto features the movie, "Happy Feet". The attraction would be enjoyed best by kids because Mumble is such a cute dancing penguin. Though the sea lion who's chasing him has the most terrifying teeth of them all. And I thought sea lions are such friendly creatures.

EKstreme Tower Ride!

What caught our attention is the tall tower with Eldar the Wizard's hat on top of it. I found out that it is the EKstreme Tower Ride, their newest attraction that is 150 feet in height that would drop your hearts out, once the ride drops you off. This new ride costs P80.00 and isn't included at the ride-all-you-can ticket. But hey, its a new attraction that sets your spines to tingle, so I guess the extra cost would be worth it.

Guess I'm good at bumping cars. LOL

As Jet wanted to ride "all he can" at EK, we also went to play bump cars, Dodgem. But I think I'll never get around to driving anytime soon. I enjoyed bumping more. Beats the purpose, dont you think?

Because Karch would shoot you all! :P

Enchanted Kingdom also has attractions like the Triassic Tag, XPP Xtreme Paintball, Exodus: The ATV Ride, Jr. Kart Trak, Zorb Balls and more. During our stay, a play called "A Christmas Story" was presented for everyone to enjoy. We rode the Jungle Log Jam last because it'll require us to get wet anyway. We stayed from Rio Grande Rapids and Wheel of Fate since the lines are uber long and it takes a lot of effort to wait.

Were amused, if not for the long lines. :D

Enchanted Kingdom has been here for fifteen years and has been giving excitement to kids and adults (like me!) anytime of the day. The magic really lives on and will forever stay with you. So spend your happy holidays with EK this season to have a merry, merry Christmas! :D

Mozu Cafe: A good place to bring your date

I was instantly Mozu-fied!

Last week, my officemates and I decided to treat ourselves for a lunch out since bonus season began. And since Ms. Tessa knows all the shots in terms of food and good restaurants, she told us that we should try this quaint cafe at the back of Linden Suites. And frankly, we were not disappointed.

Chicken Teppanyaki love

Since it was a lunch time, and the doctor made me turn away from fatty foods, I ordered their Chicken Teppanyaki (P135.00), just to stray from pork. Because it was served with cucumbers and tomato, I finished it without leaving a single morsel. Healthy living and having a delectable lunch is a perfect combo for me.

Tocino Lunch

Kara ordered their Tocino Meal, while the rest of our team had Lechon Laing (Lechon and Laing, P165.00) which I would have gotten if only for my desire to lose weight. :P

Cakes of all sorts and sizes

Because I love anything blueberry!

But as Mozu is known as a cafe restaurant, their specialty cakes are simply to die for. We had the Blueberry Cheesecake (P125.00) finished in five minutes and they also have Apple Crumble, Caramel Cheesecake and other cakes that are simply heavenly. Then I remembered I am on a diet. Hmmp.

Though, if you plan to try their delectable sweets, you're really in for a treat. Their menu doesn't just bring you mouthwatering dishes, but also your money's worth. Oh, and maybe try to bring a date when going there, your love one could fancy a sweet tooth of one or two.

Just Because...

This was taken four years ago, but I still am this bubbly girl :P

Suddenly, I miss my old life. You know, when I could still goof and call it a day without any worries whatsoever. Back when I could curl into my bed and not think about the future. Not worrying if my decisions are hard and if they'd be worth it in the end. Those days when all is handed right into my palms.

As I was looking at my old photos, I realized that I changed. I might still be the same bubbly, friendly and crazy old me, but then a lot happened to that girl. I became more in depth, much much wiser, I still try to settle but I now know my limits. Sadly, I worry a lot more now. I feel more scared of what lies ahead of me. And I feel sad if ever my plans wouldn't push through.

Right now, its always easy to say that you're living by the moment, when you're actually living to know the future. You're okay for now, but you wanna grasp just a little of the next years to see if everything you worked hard for will eventually pay off. I guess that's the easy way. But we all know that going on with life reaps sweeter rewards in the end. If its meant to happen that way.

I don't need a parachute because you're gonna catch me if I fall :)

Twenty five and still searching for more "take my breath away" moments, living my life to the fullest, attending events that makes her happy, battling a sickness that could make or break my future, enjoying family and friends, and loving the one who caught her heart: hook, line and sinker.

I'm leaving everything up to him. If this princess' wishes will come true, then I will be most happy. If its for me, then I gladly accept the challenge. After all, disney princesses worked hard for their happy endings. And their happy endings were all worth it. :)

When He goes to test you faith...

All you have to do is pray, believe that everything will be okay, and commend yourself to Him.

I have been through five stages of grief for the whole day. I denied, I was angry, I bargained, I was depressed, and until finally, I accepted that things happen for a reason.

The first time I lost a loved one was when my grandmother was taken away by cancer. I kept on telling everyone that she is healthy, she doesnt have vices, but then, it had to happen. It kept for two years with the grief, but then I had to accept the fact that she will be much better if she leaves, than get hurt all over.

Last Saturday, Jeff and Mench went to The Medical City with me because I have been having difficulties with my body. What seems normal for most women, is not normal for me, for a month. I was making excuses for so many days but when Jeff was pitying me during our Baguio trip because I was struggling with the most painful cramps I ever had in my life, they were all backing me up to have myself checked for something.

True enough, my doctor was already feeling something just by looking at me. So I had to take a test to know the real score. And there was it. Something that I will forever have in me. Something not yet curable but manageable.

For now, I have to (as Jeff and Mench said) change my lifestyle. I can't binge that much or try to get so much stress. I need to lose weight so diabetes would not trigger, worse case scenario, develop cancer. I need to regulate my periods too, or I wouldnt be able to have a baby in the future. And I guess all that got me so frustrated that I questioned God about it.

You see, if you have been reading my posts before, I have been through A LOT. I got through the mind-blowing heartache, I got through knowing the most painful truth, made that truth work out in the end and all that. Then I told Jeff about it and as expected, he was very disappointed that I am questioning these trials.

But the good thing was, my boyfriend's right. If I allow to lose myself in something not yet serious, then my faith isnt that strong. And even after I have been through those things, I should be more wary that God is giving another trial for me to solve and get out alive. To think of it, I was scared of having cancer before going to the hospital, at least what was going on with me is still manageable. Plus I have my friends and Jeff with me. I know I couldnt ask for anything more. :)

So now, I am determined to do everything the doctor says. Boyfriend is very helpful in controlling me gain weight. He even said that we'll get through this together. Honestly, I was afraid of him leaving when I think about not having babies someday. Then he assured that it will never happen. And Im also thankful to Mench because she now does control the food that I eat. Yikes. :P

There's always a rainbow after the storm ends. And because I know my future will be super bright, I guess I should start now. I'm staying positive about this. I know, because God is always there for me. Storm or no storm ahead :)

RWM Launches GRAND FIESTA MANILA 2010

The month of May is known for the numerous town feasts, but with Resorts World Manila, November marks the biggest celebration of Pinoy heritage-- no other than the Grand Fiesta Manila 2010.

And because the Philippine culture is rich and no doubt world-class, Resorts World Manila will showcase Filipino talents, arts, culture and flavors in this huge four day gathering and boost the first integrated tourism destination in the country has to offer. Catch these and more from November 25-28, 2010 and be part of this experience like never before.

The Grand Fiesta Manila 2010's Theme are as follows:

Saráp – delicious, good

Eating is an integral part of the Filipino culture, and RWM will prove itself as the place where the local cuisine will be at its most sumptuous. Gourmets will celebrate as RWM introduces its various dining destinations on its grand launch. RWM will whip up a spread of the most scrumptious Filipino viands and the most popular international cuisine prepared by the most experienced chefs local and abroad.

Sine – movie theater

RWM takes you on a ride on the most memorable moments on the Filipino silver screen. Watch the creations of famed Filipino filmmakers in the newest premium cinemas at The Newport Mall. It’s a whole new viewing experience at the Newport Cinemas, designed with stadium seating and superb views from any point in the movie house. Take the viewing experience a notch higher with the Ultra Cinema 1 which features fully reclining seats and leg rests and a call button per pod for personalized service.

Likhá – create

It’s Pinoy talent on show when RWM sends down the runway the designs of favorite Filipino designers. After holding successive events such as La Flora de Mayo where more than 30 sagalas modeled ternos; Broadway on the Runway which saw the best of Broadway as interpreted by Filipino designers, and more; RWM is ready to take Filipino creativity to greater heights at its grand launch!

Tanghál at Kantá – place where the show is exhibited and to sing

There’s no denying that talent for the stage runs strong in Pinoy blood and RWM will showcase this on a magnificent scale at its Newport Performing Arts Theater. This 1,500-seat theater is the metro’s biggest stage for musicals, events, performances, and more. Watch out what will take centerstage on RWM’s big day which can only be magical and memorable.

One of its magnificent productions is KAOS – a timeless tale of love and magic that will surely take one’s breath away.

Sayá – happy, cheerful, memory

Respected Filipino painters and artists will put their talents on display at RWM. This is in line with RWM’s aim to highlight Filipino talent and culture by holding exhibits featuring renowned artists.

GRAND FIESTA RUN 2010

As part of the Grand Fiesta, a Fun Run will be held on November 28 as an early morning fitness festivity of the Resorts World Manila. Details of the event are posted below. Get running and get a chance to win grand prizes are up for grabs like trip to Resorts World Sentosa in Singapore, Universal Studios Tickets or Fly to Singapore via Resorts World Manila's PRIVATE JET!

Have a fab time in the 3K, 5K and 10K race categories and heat up your soles at the new race

route at Newport City. Fun runners can join the 1K Rat Race, amp up the challenge by coming in their in their office attire or most colorful, fiesta-inspired outfits and get the chance to bring home exciting prizes.

Join the race and get a chance to win in the raffle for a three-day, two-night trip for four to Resorts World Sentosa, Singapore, with complimentary tickets to Universal Studios. The lucky jetsetters will be flying aboard Resorts World Manila’s private jet.

DISTANCE REGISTRATION FEE ASSEMBLY TIME GUN START

1K P650 5:00 a.m. 7:15 a.m.

3K P650 5:00 a.m. 6:10 a.m.

5K P650 5:00 a.m. 6:05 a.m.

10K P650 5:00 a.m. 6:00 a.m.

Race Date: Sunday, November 28, 2010

Registration: October 27 to November 22, 2010

Race kit includes: a singlet, bib, race map and timing chip

Registration areas:

Resorts World Manila;

Chris Sports branches at SM Mall of Asia, SM Mega Mall and Glorietta; and

R.O.X., Bonifacio High Street.

Terms and Conditions

1. Entry is non-refundable.

2. Race numbers are non-transferable.

3. Change of race category after registration is not allowed.

Sign up and suit up for Grand Fiesta Run 2010 and race your way to a relaxing getaway at Resorts World Sentosa, Singapore!

For registration inquiries and delivery of race kits, call WWWExpress at 793-1777 or 852-7210.

Festivities, fun, and a whole lot of excitement in store, brought to us by Resorts World Manila. So don't be a bore and join the fiesta galore now!

Chinese Cuisine at its Best: Passion Restaurant

I love Chinese food! But Passion Restaurant in Resorts World Manila gave me a new perspective to love dimsum more. During the launch of the Grand Fiesta Manila 2010, bloggers were invited for a special dinner courtesy of the RWM people.

Passion Restaurant is not your ordinary Chinese treat. Situated inside the six- star Maxims Hotel, they have 400 seats and seven VIP rooms to accommodate special and intimate events. A Cantonese Fine Dining that will surely fancy your taste buds.

We first got our hands on siomai dumplings and pork siopao. Since these are my favorite Chinese dishes, I am kind of used to the typical siopao buns that sells around. But in Passion, you don't need any kind of sauce to say how flavorful it is. You just have to try and speak for yourself.

We were next served dumplings with these huge prawns. I just love how crunchy they are at first bite. And topped with soy and chili sauce, I just cant help myself to a second serving.

After a few minutes, we were served crispy rolls. But even though they have shimps wrapped inside, they still tasted different from the earlier dumpling that was served. I guess it has something to do with its wrapper. Its so crispy, yet bread-like. I actually enjoyed this dish.

We were also served with pancit, which is just usual for a Cantonese Restaurant. But as much as I loved the dumplings, I'm not much of a pancit fan, so I just took a few servings.

And then, the waiters finally served as chao fan rice. It made up for the carbo craving that I actually had earlier. For a minute, it actually was my favorite part of the meal.

As dessert, a platter of fruits were handed to our table. Some got intrigued by the dragonfruit because it looks like cookies and cream bars. A perfect way to end the meal, especially for the fruit lovers.

All these and more Cantonese dishes that will surely fill your craving at Passion Restaurant located at the 2nd Flr. of the Maxims Hotel. Serving daily from 11:00 a.m. – 2:30 p.m. for lunch and resumes at 6:00 p.m. – 10:00 p.m. for dinner. You may also call (+632) 908 8875 for reservations.

Out with the Old, In With the New: Belle De Jour 2011 Planner

Its November once again! And less than two months before the year ends. So what better way to start the new year? A NEW PLANNER that brings out the bella in you, discounts and promos all year round and one that organizes your schedule and basically your life.

Since 2008, I have been a fan of the Belle De Jour Power Planner. When I was browsing through a Cosmopolitan Magazine, they advertized the same planner and it caught my attention. I thought, I had to get that ASAP! From then on, I've had the same planner every year. And they never disappoint because its stylish, useful and a great value for your money.

Through the years, Belle de Jour never fails to amaze me. The 2011 Planner's pages are all colorful and it makes you wanna write on it already. My friend, Khamz and myself are looking forward to the next year so we could already use it. We have also coordinated on how to style it (even more) and make sure that we wouldn't easily ruin it, just like we did to our 2010 planner.

But did you know what makes BDJ Planners so incredible? They have 72 discount coupons from establishments nationwide. And now, they also included the BDJ Lifestyle Card, which you can use for the whole year. Isn't that so swell?

For just P598, (and I hear discounts are still up for the taking), this planner will definitely change your life. So what are you still waiting for? Order online now by clicking the link below:

http://belledejourpowerplanner.com/09/order_planner.php

Enjoy your planner bellas! Now my planner makes me hyped for 2011!