Views that could kill

Views that could kill.

Helicopter spotted descending from the window of an inn

Sleeping quarter at 5,400 M ASL and at -30 C

Thanks to Larry H. for the fotos

Coffee Chemistry

Coffee using siphon brewer or vacuum brewed coffee in Manila?   Siphon brewer uses the principle of suction created by vapor that pulls the liquid from the upper chamber down to the bottom container through heating and cooling in a special laboratory-looking equipment. At the final brewing stage, the vapor sucks the beans from the upper chamber dry resulting in a stronger coffee.

It takes about 3 minutes or so to make a cup. While the process is not new, only a few are using this for commercial use due to the stringent procedure and time limitation. Advancement in technology has made possible machines that can produce excellent coffee in industrial quantity.

If you go for this old fashion process, Coffee Chemistry, a stall at the Trinoma Landmark Food Court (G/F Supermarket)  is selling a cup for P 39.0. Do not expect ceramic mugs or a relaxing ambience for a conversation as it is located at the Food Court shared with other concessionaires. It will not be served to you. It is self service from ordering to payment to pick-up.

But if a cup of good coffee is all you want when you are in the vicinity of Trinoma, it is worth a try.  A 12 oz cup of Ice Latte was surprisingly tagged at only P 45.0 (intro promo.)

While you are not compelled to take the MRT from Makati to North Avenue for a cup, you may just do so if you develop a craving for this good cup of coffee.

Larry's Fotos

Fotos grabbed from Larry H's disc .

Sighting of the next stop is always a welcome sight.

Bakery at 5300 M ASL must be the highest in the world. Imagine how the equipment were brought up to the camp site.

Sighting of the destination for the day is a big win!

Group shot proud of the success, affiliation with the club PALMC and with the country Philippines.

The 3 ecstatic trekkers at the highlander.

Once in a lifetime birthday celebration.

Tulaan at LRT2

While riding at the LRT2, I spotted the Tulaan sa Metro and Berso sa Metro posters at the coach. For P 12.0, the ride is really a steal especially if one wants to move fast with a bonus poetry appreciation.

First I read the Spanish verse.
I confirm my understanding by reading the Tagalog translation.

Then I relate to the poem.
Before I know it, I have to leave the coach as I already overshot my destination.

Yo sueño que estoy aquí
destas prisiones cargado,
y soñé que en otro estado
más lisonjero me vi.
¿Qué es la vida? Un frenesí.
¿Qué es la vida? Una ilusión,
una sombra, una ficción,
y el mayor bien es pequeño:
que toda la vida es sueño,
y los sueños, sueños son.

"Ano ang buhay? Isang Kahibangan . . .
Ano ang buhay? Isang Ilusyon . . .
Isang anino, isang kasinungalingan
At ang malalaking biyaya ay maliit pa rin,
dahil ang buhay ay isa lamang pangarap,
At ang ma pangarap ay pangarap lamang."


"Naririto ako dahil ikaw'y nakilala, ikaw ang buhay mula ng ikaw'y makita.
Kung ako'y mamamatay ng di ka nakilala,
Di ako mamamatay dahil di ako nabuhay . . ."

Tagalog translation of Pedro Calderón de la Barca's La vida es sueño posted at the Tulaan sa Tren at traversing from Santolan Pasig to Recto via LRT2. Remembering my Arts and Science days where I fared well both in Spanish and Pilipino.

Manila Bulletin writes about Tulaan (2) sa Tren in an article "Travelling thoughts, moving words" written by Angelo Garcia.

Seen in one of the coaches of  LRT1 Feb 2019

Berso sa Metro is in Facebook.

Year of the Metal Tiger

An appropriate reminder for the Year of the Metal Tiger

• It’s been a very busy year with activities here and there both at the office and at home.
• It’s true, as the prediction stated; there were several text messages and calls, to include emails press for quick reply. But somehow I pulled through without offending anyone major last 2009.
• The time devoted to work and task was fulfilling to complete with a trade off. Not much time was devoted to friends and the self. But if office is almost like personal life, then there is balance.
• There were trade offs to my pastime recreation, climbing. But when you see for the 1st time Lake Sebu and Siargao, it was like business with pleasure. You don’t see much of your friends but meet new ones.
• Life is fair. For all the work done, you are promoted twice in a year and afforded luxuries like gadgets and tools for mobility.
• As the trending for 2010 builds up, it looks like it is going to be an action year with opportunities showing up to be tapped. So far, I have been grabbing them and succeeding. Thanks to the inner self and the ultimate being.

I dedicate the positive prospects this 2010 to all those who have touched me in one way or another. I survived the tests of the past years because of them. I offer this quote from a philosopher and teacher Albert Schweitzer which I sent as my New Year greeting. "At times our own light goes out and is rekindled by a spark from another person. Each of us has cause to think with deep gratitude of those who have lighted the flame within us.”

As they say in where I work, 2010 started way before before the fireworks last 31 Dec.  Kita-kita tayo sa Taon ng Mga Tigre.

Yearly Prediction for the Tiger Jan. 26, 2009 - Feb. 13, 2010 Stephanie Dempsey
There won't be much time for fun and games in the Year of the Earth Ox. Instead, you'll be continually forced to prove yourself to friends, employers and relatives. Assuming more responsibility will open the door for bigger and better things in 2010. The secret to your success will be sticking to a schedule, and although you hate being hemmed in like this, you will gain some valuable skills along the way. Being able to deliver excellent work on schedule will cause your reputation to soar, and increase the appreciation of your loved ones.

Practicing humility is also important in 2009, which won't be easy for a prideful animal like you. An unassuming person could turn out to be a respected authority in their field. By playing second banana to this person, you can acquire some valuable skills of your own. Keep warm during the winter months, as you could be vulnerable to colds, flus and other viruses. Vitamins, nourishing food, regular exercise and adequate sleep will boost your immune system. Before you throw your paws up in despair, keep in mind that Ox years bestow tremendous creativity on Tigers. If you're ever going to write that novel, shoot that film or record that album, this is the year to do so!

Yearly Prediction for the Rooster Jan. 26, 2009 - Feb. 13, 2010 Stephanie Dempsey

http://www.tarot.com/chinese-astrology/chinese-horoscopes-rooster-2009

2009 is poised to shower you with gifts, dear Rooster. You'll come into your own during the Year of the Earth Ox. People appreciate your wisdom, insight and wit this year. What bliss for an exhibitionist like you! There's never been a better time to go abroad; consider planning a trip for October. Getting an advanced diploma or certificate is also favored. There is one downside to this year, however: you run the risk of burnout. Although it may pain you to do so, you need to get into the habit of turning off your cell phone after hours, otherwise you'll never get any rest. Besides, you owe it to your friends and family to be entirely present for them.

As far as your health is concerned, you need to make more time for meditative activities like nature walks, meditation, reading and prayer. Otherwise, you'll have a hard time falling asleep. Make more time for hobbies, too. All work and no play make a cranky Rooster. Don't worry about falling behind -- if there's one year you can do it all, it's this one. Be sure to enter as many contests as possible during the Year of the Earth Ox. Luck is on your side, and could be awarded in the form of cash and prizes!

Photos grabbed from the collection R. Artadi.