Monday, December 31, 2018

Happy New Year


Thank you 2018

Thank you for all the happenings good, not-so-good, happy, momentous, sad, exciting, etc. that I got for 2018.

I know, the Lord equip me for 2019, and there's a lot to look forward to for 2019.

Happy New Year Everyone!!!


#NewYear,
#HappyNewYear,
#istariray23moments,

Sunday, December 30, 2018

Sky is Crying...

The sky is crying today

12.30.18 Sunday

So are we two years ago...

I dedicate all these photographs that I took along Baclaran today to my only Brother Bear who passed away 2 years ago on this same date of 30 December.

Baclaran, Pasay City



"Raindrops are the whispers of the sky, gently caressing the earth with their tears, bringing forth renewal and cleansing."



"When the sky is crying, it is as if nature itself is shedding tears, allowing us to find solace in the embrace of the rain."



"In the symphony of rain, every drop carries a melody, composing a beautiful song that nourishes the soul."



"Rain is a reminder that even the heavens weep, showing us that it's okay to let our own tears flow, for they too hold the power to heal."



"As the rain falls from above, it washes away the worries that burden our hearts, making way for the blooming of hope and rejuvenation."



"A rainy day is not a gloomy day; it is an invitation to slow down, to reflect, and find beauty in the rhythm of life."



"When the sky weeps, it paints the world with glistening hues, turning ordinary moments into extraordinary scenes of enchantment."



"Raindrops are like tiny messengers from the heavens, reminding us that even during the darkest times, there is still grace and beauty."



"The sound of rain is nature's lullaby, soothing our weary souls and washing away the noise of the world."



"Rain is a gentle reminder that growth often requires both sunshine and storms. It nourishes the seeds of possibility and helps them flourish."



"When the sky cries, it is nature's way of expressing its emotions, teaching us the importance of embracing and honoring our own feelings."



"Rainstorms can be fierce, but they display the undeniable strength of nature, reminding us of our own resilience in the face of adversity."



"The rain's touch is like a million gentle kisses from the sky, awakening our senses and connecting us to the vastness of the universe."

Redemptorist church



"A rainy day is the perfect time to curl up with a book, sip on a warm cup of tea, and let the rhythm of the raindrops transport us to a world of imagination."



"The rain brings a sense of unity to all living beings, washing away the boundaries that separate us and reminding us of our interconnectedness."



"Just as the sky sheds tears, we too must allow ourselves to release pent-up emotions, for it is through these tears that we find healing and growth."



"The rain cleanses not only the earth but also our hearts, purifying us from within and allowing us to start anew with a fresh perspective."



"When the sky weeps, it reminds us that vulnerability is not a weakness but a testament to our capacity to feel deeply and authentically."



"Rain offers a gentle pause in the chaos of life, inviting us to slow down, breathe, and find peace in the simplicity of the present moment."



"The sound of rain falling onto leaves is nature's orchestra, a rhythmic serenade that awakens our senses and brings us closer to the harmony of the universe."

Baclaran near BERMA Building



"Raindrops are like little miracles, each carrying the endless possibilities of growth, transformation, and rebirth."

EDSA South Bound Lane



"Rainfall is a dance between heaven and earth, a choreographed performance that celebrates the delicate balance and interplay of the elements."



#Ulan,
#Rain,
#Baclaran,
#Paranaque,
#BaclaranChurch,
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Tuesday, December 25, 2018

Merry Christmas 2018!!


Merry Christmas Everyone!

May the Joy of this season bring you to cheer and smiles on your faces.

May this Christmas season bring your closer to all those that you treasure in your heart.

Have a Merry Christmas and a Happy New year!

#Christmas,
#HappyHolidays,
#MerryChristmas,
#istariray23moments,

Saturday, December 22, 2018

Pinoy Bibingka and Puto BumBong




I love to EaT💓!!!
Food in Season

Pinoy Food festivities were in the air and of course, Bibingka (Rice Cakes) and Puto Bumbong were always present and will not miss every Paskong Pinoy Holidays.

I am sooo excited as our wandering feet traveled to Las Piñas Bamboo Organ church today with my kiddos. We are actually here to admire the lanterns adorning the church and of course the infamous Pinoy Bibingka and Puto Bumbong.

Bibingka being cooked

Pinoy Bibingka was cooked traditionally here. Burning charcoal on top and bottom of the Bibingka covered by banana leaves gives it a yummy aroma while cooking.

Rice cakes were made of finely ground rice or galapong (milled glutinous rice), coconut milk, margarine, sugar, salted eggs as toppings, and grated coconut. As time went by, a lot of different versions were created like instead of grated coconut they put grated quick melted cheese on top of it. Instead of ground rice, they use flour and a lot of milk and cream have been added to give it a much creamier taste but whatever the ingredients are and the preparations the tradition is and will be the best for me. 

Banana Leaves serves as the cover for the Bibingka

Charcoal on top of the Bibingka

This is how the traditional bibingka is cooked on brown clay pots

  
Fully cooked Bibingka

This Bibingka made its way to our table, tastes so good especially when served hot!

Puto bumbong

Puto Bumbong is also a Pinoy Food made of galapong (milled glutinous rice) or malagkit na bigas in Tagalong. It actually made me think about its purple color and upon searching this puto is originally made from Pirurutong or a kind of special rice that has a distinctly purple color. Over time, makers or sellers of Puto bungbong used food coloring as this type of rice was scarce and expensive. 

Another thing that made me into thinking is why it is named Puto Bumbom, Puto Bungbong, Puto Boom-boom, and Puto Bumbong, Where does it get its name? 

I did further reading and research and found out that- Its name comes from the process of how it is being cooked. This puto is cooked on a bamboo tube called bumbong or bumbong ng kawayan in Tagalong. As time goes by, the product incorporated its name. That bumbong was actually put on top of a steamer and once smoke came out from it signaled that the puto inside was already cooked.



The ingredients of this puto are likely the same as the bibingka. Galapong (milled glutinous rice) or milled Pirurutong, margarine, muscovado sugar, and shredded coconut. 

Rice was soaked in water overnight and grounded the following day. Then presto, the grounded rice was inserted into those bumbongs and steamed until cooked.

This will be served on banana leaves topped with margarine, shredded coconut, and muscovado sugar. 

Best served when hot.



Bumbong or Bamboo Tube where the ingredients inserted to be cooked
 



Puto Bumbong served with margarine and shredded coconut on a banana leaf
Muscovado sugar will be added shortly :) 


#Bibingka,
#PutoBumbong,
#HolidayFood,
#istariray23foodporn,
#istariray23laboy,
#istariray23travel,
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Thursday, December 20, 2018

Mythology | Timeless Tales of Gods And Heroes by Edith Hamilton

I held a copy of this book 15 years ago and really can't take my eyes off of it. I tried all the possible ways to have a copy of this however failed since this was only produced and available in the USA way back then.

Mythology by Edith Hamilton

This book made my college days staying in the library for longer hours enjoyable and had no dull moments at all. Located in the section where all materials are prohibited outside the library and only for library use. Internet was not that rampant during those years and burying your nose reading books was the best mind cultivation one could ever have.

I even wrote in my notebook the title and the author of this book since I really liked it so much that I wanted to have a copy of my own. I checked with all available bookstores in Manila that might have this book however all of these bookstores advised me that this is only available and produced in the USA. Well, I did not lose hope however my life moved on, and forgot about this book for a while.

Until recently, I saw a post on Facebook about this book. I was so excited since the person was so kind enough to share where this could be bought and how much it was. With no hesitations with money in my pocket and my rest day falls in, I hurriedly went to the nearest bookstore to inquire about this. 

National Bookstore does not have this in their stock and thank heaven that Fully Booked in SM Southmall got plenty of these neatly arranged right from their store window. I was so excited to have a copy and bought one for myself.


This is indeed a Christmas wish granted so early. 

What I loved about this book is that it is a hardbound lovely cover, pages were thick like Oslo colored papers. I also loved the illustrations in this book, not so plenty yet complement the important stories of mythology.

These also provide a narration of how the gods were connected with each other. Another thing that I really liked is that it shows graphical illustrations of their connections. The English language that was used was easy to understand and not only that, this also has the not-so-famous god in Greek mythology which is indeed a great help to be understood by the reader.

I sooo loved this book that even my kids were able to read and enjoyed every story it beholds. It's not cheap though, which is really understandable- the materials were true of good quality,  from its hardbound colorful cover, thick lovely pages and take into consideration that this was imported from the USA. 

I bought this book in Fully Booked SM Southmall for the amount of Php 1522.00




"Mythology: Timeless Tales of Gods and Goddesses" by Edith Hamilton is a classic and highly acclaimed book that has become a staple in the field of mythology. It was first published in 1942 and has since remained popular and widely read.



The book is divided into sections, each dedicated to a specific pantheon of gods and goddesses. It starts with Greek mythology, delving into the stories of Zeus, Hera, Poseidon, Athena, Aphrodite, Hermes, and many others. The Roman myths follow, with their counterparts to the Greek gods and goddesses. Finally, Hamilton explores Norse mythology with tales of Odin, Thor, Loki, Freya, and the majestic world of Asgard.



Edith Hamilton's writing style is engaging and accessible, making the complex and intricate stories of mythology comprehensible and enjoyable for readers of all ages. She brings the gods and goddesses to life with vivid descriptions and narrative skill, creating a sense of awe and wonder.



One of the strengths of "Mythology" lies in its ability to present the underlying themes and exploration of human nature found within these ancient myths. Hamilton doesn't merely retell the stories but provides analysis and commentary that enables readers to delve deeper into the cultural, psychological, and moral aspects of the myths.

Graphical presentation of Gods and Goddesses



Moreover, Hamilton includes lesser-known stories and characters that often get overshadowed by the more famous myths. By including these lesser-known tales, she broadens the reader's understanding of the mythological world and showcases the vast array of fascinating characters and stories that populate it.



"Mythology" is not just a book for mythology enthusiasts; it is also a valuable resource for students, scholars, and anyone interested in ancient cultures. It offers a foundation for further exploration of mythological themes and provides insight into the beliefs, values, and customs of ancient societies.



Alongside the myths themselves, Hamilton weaves in historical context, highlighting the influence of mythology on literature, art, and philosophy throughout history. By doing so, she demonstrates the enduring impact these ancient tales have had on human civilization.



In summary, "Mythology: Timeless Tales of Gods and Goddesses" by Edith Hamilton is a remarkable book that brings ancient myths to life while exploring their deeper meanings. With its elegant prose, comprehensive coverage, and insightful commentary, it remains an invaluable resource and an immersive journey into the captivating world of gods, goddesses, and heroes.



"Mythology: Timeless Tales of Gods and Goddesses" is a captivating book written by Edith Hamilton. It serves as a comprehensive and accessible introduction to Greek, Roman, and Norse mythologies. 



Edith Hamilton, a renowned classical scholar, masterfully weaves together various ancient myths, bringing to life the gods, goddesses, heroes, and mythical creatures that have fascinated humanity for centuries. Her storytelling abilities enable readers to immerse themselves in these timeless tales and gain insights into the complexities of human nature, the origins of the world, and the moral lessons embedded within these myths.



The book covers a wide range of mythological stories, from the creation myths to epic adventures and tragic love stories. With great attention to detail, Hamilton explores various pantheons and highlights the similarities and differences between Greek, Roman, and Norse mythologies.



One of the notable aspects of "Mythology" is its ability to make these ancient stories relatable and relevant to contemporary readers. Hamilton not only provides a comprehensive account of the myths but also delves into the cultural, historical, and psychological contexts surrounding these tales. This contextual analysis adds depth and richness to the narratives, enabling readers to explore the underlying meanings and symbolism present in each myth.


I was indeed a happy kiddo when I bought this book 😊😊😊






"Mythology: Timeless Tales of Gods and Goddesses" is not just a mere collection of stories; it serves as a bridge between the ancient world and the modern reader. It invites us to reflect upon our own lives, values, and aspirations by examining the human experiences presented through these mythological accounts. Through Hamilton's eloquent prose and deep understanding of the subject matter, the book becomes a compelling exploration of the human condition itself.




Whether you are a mythology enthusiast or a newcomer to these ancient tales, "Mythology" promises an engaging and enlightening journey through the realms of gods, goddesses, and mortals. It is a book that continues to inspire countless readers worldwide, reminding us of the enduring power and relevance of myth in our collective human story.





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