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50th Birthday Resolution

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  I just turned 50 this year under the Aquarius Astrological sign and a Tiger in the Chinese Zodiac. My beautiful family is celebrating my 50th birthday, and there's no denying it; besides my laid-back job for the dollar and laid-back hobbies, I need to get in shape. Not only to look better in my suit but also for my health issues. I had already survived a stroke in 2016, and I thank God I made it to 50 with a slight limp in my walk. I'll write more about my health plan later. For now, let's focus on what I've been planning this year and beyond regarding the projects I am trying to prioritize. I am testing my Canon Rebel T2i with a Sigma 10-20mm wide-angle lens. I've been into Photography since my late teens, although it's been an on-and-off hobby. I've taken a few decent pictures that still inspire me to continue today. Unfortunately, due to my other passions in music and storytelling, photography has remained a last hobby for me. I used to have a photog...

Instant Ramen Noodles

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  From humble post-war beginnings, instant ramen has become a global comfort food phenomenon. Invented by Momofuku Ando in 1958, instant ramen's success lies in its simplicity, affordability, and versatility. The basic preparation is quick and easy, but endless customization options allow for culinary creativity. Regional specialties and diverse dietary choices cater to a wide range of preferences. Instant ramen's impact extends beyond taste. It's a cultural touchstone featured in movies, anime, and even museums. For many, it evokes memories and signifies convenience and affordability. As instant ramen continues to evolve, we can expect even more innovation in flavors, formats, and sustainability. One thing is certain: instant ramen's journey is far from over, and its delicious, convenient, and adaptable nature will continue to win hearts (and stomachs) around the world. This iconic Japanese Ramen never fails to deliver; since I arrived in the USA...

PESTILENT: Chapter 15 - The Precious Coin

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  PESTILENT Chapter 15   The Precious Coin  1  On his deathbed, the old man, with a frail voice, looked at Frank and finally revealed the reason he needed the precious coin. He wanted to sell it to buy a plane ticket. He spoke of his longing to see his childhood home in Greece one last time before his battle with thyroid cancer would claim his life. His eyes were filled with the pain of unfulfilled dreams, and he shared the story of his cherished memories, hoping that Frank would understand the significance of the coin he had. However, Frank, fearful of the consequences and his own past misdeeds, maintained his lie, not disclosing the true whereabouts of the coin, as the thought of the old man involving the police haunted him, knowing he had taken more from him. Tragically, the old man passed away before getting a chance to retrieve his precious coin and fulfill his dream.       Eleven years later, in a tent provided by Norman, Frank, currently so...

NOPE

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In 2022, Jordan Peele delivered another cinematic gem with Nope, a sci-fi horror that kept audiences glued to their seats. Peele, the mastermind behind thought-provoking films like Get Out and Us, wore multiple hats for Nope, serving as writer, director, and co-producer. The Haywood siblings, OJ and Emerald, grapple with running their California horse ranch while facing financial hurdles. Their lives take a sharp turn when they witness an otherworldly phenomenon hovering above their property. Driven by ambition and a glimmer of hope for fame and fortune, the siblings, along with tech salesman Ricky "Jupe" Park, embark on a mission to capture the mysterious object on film. Little do they know, their pursuit unlocks a horrifying reality, proving the being they're dealing with is far more sinister than they imagined. Critics lauded Nope for its stunning visuals, Peele's masterful direction, and the electrifying performances by the cast. Daniel Kaluuya, Keke Palme...

Grocery Adventure of December 14, 2023

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  Pinakbet : It's a local dish from Ilocos Norte, Philippines. My hometown is Paoay, Ilocos Norte. You can also add any Fish and Shrimp or none. The traditional way to cook this is to place every ingredient in a clay pot, place the lid, shake it with Bagoong (Anchovy Paste), and let it cook on a clay burner. No meat, mostly. Calabaza will balance the sweetness with the bitterness of the Biter Mellon. I like adding a lot of tomatoes to my Pinakbet. It gives a bit of sourness with a tint of sweetness. The pork sides or pork belly for Lechon Kawali. It doesn't have to be Lechon Kawali. Make sure to boil the pork separately first hand. I went to Indian Bazar Market for the onion and other ingredients. Good price too... obviously, too organic, lol. Just take out the skin, and it's cleaned. Some of this eggplant will do. I sometimes take the once on the right. Some Indian Bitter Mellon. I was looking for the smaller kinds. I found a few half the size of the ones you see here.  Us...