Koyen's Kitchenette

"There's nothing as exciting as a comeback- seeing someone with dreams, watching them 
fail, and then getting a second chance"- Rachel Griffiths

Awesome words from Australian Actress. With that said, I am thankful that I have been given opportunities to fail and rise- this is one of them. It's no secret, my little business was shelved for a while. It was painful but what doesn't kill you makes you stronger- damn true statement. Don't let anyone ever tell you otherwise. If you fall, pick yourself up and try again as Aaliyah sang (God bless her soul). Here's to picking myself up again, equipping myself too. For this Christmas Season, I present to you some of our old favorites from Koyen's Kitchenette. If you would like to put orders, please feel free to email us in: koyenskitchenette@gmail.com We're also on Instagram: koyenskitchenette we're on Facebook too! look for our page and like us: Koyen's Kitchenette

Koyen's Kitchenette

33

March 26, 2014 Dearest 33, I have but one word to describe you: Amazing. Through the years of tears, laughter and mundane moments- your year just takes the cake. It’s just how you had to unfold and happen- I have utmost gratitude and appreciation for you. Thank you. Thank you for teaching me how to trust in HIS plan, thank you for teaching me to be patient with myself. Thank you for teaching me how to swallow reality but still made me go at my own pace on living. Thank you for teaching me to apologize for acts that I have done wrong, but for staying true to myself and for making me evolve more. Thank you for making me feel the loss of friends. Thank you for making me feel the love and care of new found friends and vice-versa. Thank you for making me rekindle friendships that have been shelved but as if it were just yesterday when we saw each other. Thank you for making me feel at home with my faith family. Thank you for introducing love to me in many different forms. Thank you for making me give love no matter how unrepaired and broken I felt. Thank you for making me break down my walls to feel love again. I have nothing but gratitude for you 33. Thank you for making me plan again. Thank you for making me dream again. Thank you for making me realize once again that I would love to be a better version of myself each day. Thank you for making me push myself more and more. And lastly, thank you for making me live. You were truly awesome 33. You were just the start of something greater and bigger for me. Now, I will move on to another year with blank pages to another chapter which I shall hand my pen once again to God, and I will do my best to write my own version. To dearest 34, I hope you are kind to me. I hope you handle and respect my pace and time as well. I hope you bring me interesting things just like 33, where I expected nothing but love and gratitude for every day that God gave me then. I hope and pray I won’t disappoint you. I know you are the year for me ☺ Above all, everything for God’s greater glory in anything and everything I do. Amen. Love, Koyen

2012: The Year of Awesome

Boracay- December 2012. The place where I have created numerous memories that I know is a constant in my life. I'm looking forward to making more memories in this island this 2013 :) Haven't written in the longest time. But my heart is just so full with so much to be thankful for from the past year. Being thankful for everything that has been, that is and that will be is one of my mantras this 2013. If there are things that I have done and learned from the last year- I wouldn't have changed a thing. Thank you for being part of my life journey, I'm looking forward to what ever life will offer me this year and I'm ready for it. From me to you: I wish you the happiest, funnest, coolest year ever. Raise your glasses! :) Love, The Angus Beef Tapa Lady

Love Is So Much Better The Second Time Around

It's been a while since I've gone to a wish grant. It's also been a while since I've felt my heart melt- and it didn't have to be the cheesy type of kilig melting vibes, it just took one Saturday afternoon to rekindle with my first love: Make-A-Wish Foundation of The Philippines.

Our Wish Kids for the day. Thank you Make-A-Wish UAE for sponsoring their wishes I've been volunteering for the foundation since I was 19, I was still in college then. I never knew what hit me, until my very first hospital visit in PCMC (Philippine Children's Medical Center). That would be every Friday after my last class for the day, which would end at 10am, I remember rushing out of school to go to PCMC. The first time I entered the hospital, brought back good memories. I used to go there for my check-up that I would have with my Grand Aunt who was our family Pediatrician. The only thing that was different was that, the place looked run down and needed a little TLC with maybe a new paint job. Although it was clean and it had that distinct hospital smell. The first visit I made for Make-A-Wish Philippines (MAW-P), now that I remember it- it was as if I was going to jump and either sink or swim. I had no expectations, and I didn't know what I was going to expect either. I was met by my Grand Aunt, and from that first Friday on- she would be my lunch date in the hospital cafeteria before I went through the Hospice wards. (she was still alive then- Lola Letty, thank you and I miss you), she walked me through to the HOSPICE office and that's where I met Ate Beth. (who I hear is still there- God Bless her). Before Ate Beth walked me through the Hospice wards, she briefed me. She had 4 rules: Wag masyado mag English, taguin ang mga alahas, wag ka masyadong mag pabango, wag ka umiyak sa harapan nila. (translation: Don't speak in English too much, keep your jewelry, don't wear cologne/ perfume, don't cry in front of them) PCMC is a government owned hospital so most are indigent patients that's why speaking in Tagalog was a must and dressing low-key and comfortably was better when you would immerse yourself with them, most of the children in the hospice wards were going through chemotherapy treatments- I'm sure you get it now. Hence, the no cologne and perfume. The last part which has to do with no crying in front of the kids and their families that I met, was tough during my first few visits. I managed to leave the hospital with a really big ball of tears caught in my throat that as soon as I entered my car- I would start balling like as if, these children were family to me and I was so afraid to losing any of them to the Big C or what ever ailment they were battling. The children that I met those first few visits- I remember some of their names and their faces but their stories are forever etched in my heart and my mind. I remember some of them, wanted me in the treatment room holding their hand when they would have needles stuck for treatment and I would allow them to squeeze my hand if they wanted to. The tears that I let out, after every Friday visit- were all worth it for them. They were my heroes, they saved me from what I was personally going through (and it was really NOTHING compared to what these children and their families had to deal with)- they taught me to think of others either than myself. They taught me the real meaning of hope and living my life the best way I can. To me, they personified Jesus Christ every time I met and spoke with them. They taught me how to listen more, rather than speak. Their parents made me understand what my parents felt and what they went through when 2 of my elder siblings were sick. I realized how hard it was for my Mom and Dad. I never knew because I was only 2 or 3 when my eldest Sister Charlyn was diagnosed of Leukemia (Bone Cancer) and I wasn't born yet when my older brother died from a rare form of cancer. I had the strong feeling and yearning on how much Make-A-Wish Philippines felt like a relationship I wanted to seriously be committed to and I just did about that. Fast forward to August 18, 2012.

Meet Jean- my wishkid for the day. His wish was to have a bike. A big wish grant that was done in TIMEZONE Glorietta 4. Thank you to Make-A-Wish UAE for sponsoring the wishes of the children. I was introduced to Jean who was my 11-year old wish kid that day. He is an only child that is battling MDS (Myelodysplastic Syndrome- a blood disorder). They live in Laguna, and he admitted to me he got up real early to be in Glorietta by 10am. I asked if it was a hassle for him and he said no with a big smile on his face. While he and his 2 cousins and I were rushing to the main Timezone area to do the BINGO game (with a twist) we had a little chit-chat. I asked him if he was still studying and he said yes. He's in the 5th grade and Science is his favorite subject. I then asked, what would he like to be when he grows up. He said he wanted to be a soldier, I was taken a back. Then asked if his father was a soldier- he said no, he wanted to be one, to help others. My heart melted.

Jean with our VP Anna chua and his cousin When it was time for the kids to go back to Timezone's activity hall, Jean was rushing since we had a "BINGO" on our card. All kids were asked to go center stage and close their eyes since all of them completed the BINGO task.

The kids waiting for their prize- little did they know, they were getting their wishes I didn't know what Jean's wish was. When the kids were asked to open their eyes, I followed Jean to the package that had his name on it and right beside the package was a bike. The look on his face was priceless. But I got worried because, I started to see he was about to cry. I thought we had the wrong wish item. So I asked if this is what he wished for. When he said yes, he started to cry. My heart was swelling all I could do was hug him, and the familiar feeling of a really big ball of tears stuck on my throat has found me again.

Here's Jean with his bike and another wishkid who wished for the same Its been years since I've felt that exact feeling at that exact moment. I've been somewhat an absentee volunteer since I've gotten out of college and started to work. I'd still be in the loop since I felt MAW-P was like my baby (I was 19 when I started and now, I'm 32. You do the math haha!) I was volunteer number 5, plus the commitment I made since being a volunteer for this great organization made me feel so at home and it did feel like home. I guess some of you might think, wishing for a bike or a pair of red Convers chuck's are things that can easily be bought. And why would you want to be part of something that deals with children that are sickly? Living a life filled with joy, hope and love is the right that every child should have. Regardless of their race, nationality, background- healthy or sickly alike they deserve it. The power of a wish is indeed magical not only to the children involved but to us volunteers alike. These children have taught and given me so much more than I bet, I have given them in a day.

Jean with his Mom, and his 2 girl cousins and behind with his helmet Booie Segovia, former Make-A-Wish Philippines president I hope one time in your life, you may experience the power of a wish. For more information about Make-A-Wish Philippines, please visit our website: http://makeawish.org.ph/ you can also find us in Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/pages/Make-A-Wish-Philippines/253448188026008 Love is indeed better the second time, third, fourth, fifth...I think I should just quit with counting. Because I know, no matter how many times I experience a Wish Grant I fall in-love all over again.

Amorita: The Little Love That Is My Current BIG Love

It was the time of the year to give in to the yearning of another solitary travel moment. I chose: Amorita Resort in Alona Beach- Panglao, Bohol. What caught my eye were the words RELAXING ESCAPE PACKAGE- SOLD! Just what I needed. Booked myself for 3-days, it was inclusive of a 1-hour massage and an awesome breakfast buffet. In reality, the thought of just being in Amorita for 3-days was already exciting me. The day that I was leaving Manila my fervent prayer to God was to make Him prove Accu Weather wrong since the forecast for Tagbilaran was pretty wet. I might sound selfish, but I seriously was due for a tan. It's been ages! I'm a summer baby, and I've been craving for some sun! Sorry Mr. Tarsier I just probably have to come back and see you again. At least the airplane I came in flew somewhat near the Chocolate Hills- got that covered.


Sun Lounge area by the infinity pool

It was a 30-40 minute car ride from the Tagbilaran Airport to Amorita. I was already impressed when the Amorita personnel picked me up from the airport. I'm just really bad with names, but he was very gracious and so was the driver. On the way to the resort, he actually gave me feedback on Bohol. For one, it rains mostly in the evenings there. Secondly, There are only 2 malls in Tagbilaran (which is the Capital of Bohol) and guess what- it's not SM nor Ayala nor Robinsons at that. I was actually amazed by his second statement! Moving along, I was so happy the sun was shining and the gorgeous bright blue waters of Bohol welcomed me whilst I was enjoying my ride to Amorita.


Lunch: Yummy Amorita Club Sandwich on Focaccia Bread. By the way, they bake their own breads fresh- daily. YUMMY :)

As soon as we entered the gates, I felt warm and fuzzy...just like home. Reaching the reception area, I was greeted warmly. Not the pilit nor plastic kind with other resorts. Their smiles were genuine and when they found out I was alone- they had mixed reactions. I assured them it's something I choose to do on a yearly basis, and no I'm not weird. I just like traveling alone for my own break from my usual routine. An honest to goodness break from everybody and everything. The more I felt special when the staff of Amorita ( I felt) took extra care of me. Other guests had it in their rooms too, but maybe I felt more kilig since I was traveling alone. I had a bowl of awesome chocolate cookies all to myself! I tried one, and God knows how hard I really had to control myself to not eat ALL OF IT IN ONE SITTING!


The mahiwagang Chocolate Cookies

After getting introduced to the areas of the resort, I got dressed for the pool and my date with Mr. Sun. Note to self, if you want to travel alone to the beach make sure your arms are long enough to reach your back when you put your sun tan or sunblock in your body. Fine, there were a couple of nice people that wanted to help me. But sorry- if you ain't Xian Lim don't bother me. Somehow, I thank yoga for my back arm moves that got to cover my back with proper amounts of sun tan lotion.


2 beds for me :) love it!

When night greeted me, after the day working on my tan and going down the cliff to walk on the beach, I was excited for my massage treatment. I go to Nuat Thai here in Manila and I remembered most of their therapists are from Bohol. So I silently thought, maybe Boholanos do have the miracle hands that work wonders on tired and stressed bodies like mine. The first night massage I had was what I needed! and the next night, I didn't even want to have dinner out of my room so after my second night massage I was so contented and didn't want to get out of my PJ's anymore so I ordered room service. And yes, Boholanos have the Midas Touch. Both therapists had the same quality and strength that I exactly wanted. Happy me :)


Love the bathroom


Love the shower


Ahhh my personal travel essentials when alone, mga pang aliw: TV, an iPod dock, and Internet :)

I loved how the staff gave me complementary dessert on my first night. I'm not sure why, maybe because they found out it was just my birthday? But what ever the reason was, I felt the love from the little love of the central Visayas region. For the three days that I was there, I had wonderful moments to myself. Pondering, sound tripping, taking a nap under the sun with an awesome view and awesome people. my parents were calling like as if I wasn't going to come home after 3-days (that's still feeling the love- thanks Mom and Dad) I honestly can't wait to go back. And I will be back in Amorita, by my lonesome or maybe with my family or maybe even with the special some one. Thank you again, for the big love you gave me :)


My favorite scenery as of the moment.


Thanks for picking me up and taking me to the airport again! :)


On the way back to Manila

Until my next travel!
Koyen

Behind the Scenes

It's been almost a year now since I took in my newest adventure which is delving into the Food Industry. Having a great, tried and tested product has been a blessing to sell. In every adventure, there are things that I have learned (the learning continues). For one, changing my scheduled office hours which is now during the weekends. On my week days, preparing for the weekend market and doing my own research and development with the award winning Angus Beef Tapa has my week full and has unearthed my long lost passion for food and cooking. Marketing the product to different types of customers has been one of my favorite tasks since I get to know my customers more. Basically, I now understand and know what it's like to be the despachadora and sometimes, cross over to being the customer in some moments. I've come to love and appreciate both roles which has been fueling my passion for what I currently do.

What I like most when I put my sales lady hat on is interacting with my customers. The long and hard work prepping for the weekend just pays off when you hear all sorts of stories from your customers that talk about your product. My customers have been extended family in such a way, when they order you know you are a part of something special- their meal. They bond while they eat your product, that to me is comforting. It's worth all the hard work preparing each meal that they have. I've made friends with most my customers, and I'm glad I'm their weekend treat since most of them are health conscious. The other bulk of my customers are kids that tell the truth when it comes to food. Thank you for being honest on how much you love eating our very own Angus Beef Tapa anytime of the day and any where you go.

Mercato has made me gain new friends and I'm proud to say we're the 15 most visited and sought-after food booths during the weekend. We have the same love and gusto for what we do which translates to making all our customers our favorites. We like to come up with ideas that would make the market exciting and, interesting and worth coming back to. We're lucky the organizers are understanding and supportive of our initiatives for the market. See, Mercato now is not just simply a place where I work in every weekend. It has become a community where I look forward to seeing, tasting, smelling and hearing what's new, what's been happening or, what just is. Visit us soon! We can't wait to see you! :)

*Mercato Favorites photo courtesy of Gail, thank you Gail! :)

The Paleo Project

Cauliflower Rice with Broccoli and Lemon Chicken ala Paleo


I re-read one of my favorite books entitled "Jemima J." by Jane Green. It gave me further inspiration to have will-power on the lifestyle that I have decided on. I don't have the funds for Marie France nor Bello. So, as my mother and father would say: the secret is to diet and exercise plus- stay away from our mini fridge where the chocolates are at! Ok, got it loud and clear. I started cooking my own food, more like gourmet style minus all the preservatives. Little did I know, the food I started to prepare for myself is popularly called The Paleo Diet When I started to research about it and check out some recipes, apparently I am not that hardcore (yet). When I mean by hardcore, I don't make my own mayonnaise (yet), nor do I use ghee or tallow. Olive Oil is my best friend when I want something fried, if I don't need oil- I thank the inventors of Teflon. So, I now started to challenge myself. Well, not enough recipes online so thank God for Amazon! I can't wait until my books arrive. I hope I do justice, with the next entries to come. And when I mean justice, I hope I see a change with myself- in terms of size, and health. I'm not going to turn Julie on all of you and do some Julie and Julia project. Although I totally applaud Julie for trying to emanate Julia Child in this day and age. I don't think Julia Child liked what Julie did. So in advance, to any hard core Paleo lifestlye person reading this don't hate me, I live in a country where fresh herbs are still a challenge to find (maybe I'm not looking in the right places) although the other usual ingredients are highly priced but I'd still buy them, since it's cheaper than a trip to the hospital for being un-healthy.

For this evening, I tried Lemon Chicken with Cauliflower rice and Broccoli. I'm happy to have two awesome recruits and my awesome cheerleaders in the name of Mom and Dad. Let's do this! Cheers to embracing change for the better!