Mobile blog - Koi's return

The Kois are back in the 'I Love Sushi' restaurant!

Itadaima!

Mobile blog - Hedgehog again

Still the stuffed kind though.

But an albino one this time. And it makes sounds when you press on it. Not sure though if those sounds are what actual hedgehogs sound like :-p

Mobile blog - Krispy Kreme?

Please inflate up to 60 psi only. That's a big 'donut'...

Looks good on the Civic. They should come with these stock (hehehe) ;-)

Mobil blog - Flambeau?

Mmmm... liqueur on the cake. Blue flame. So cool.

Dig in!

Itadakimasu!

Mobile blog - Brunch

Ate at IHop on Christmas afternoon. Haven't visited this place since 2008.

Grabbed the classic sampler plate which includes this stack of fluffy pancakes (and all that grease... wohoo!!). No matter how I try to make pancakes, I can never make it as good as the ones served at restaurants.

In any case, I was able to fulfill the IHop craving - and on Christmas day at that. ;-)

Happy Christmas!

Mobile blog - Prime lens

Liking the 50mm prime lens I got for Christmas.

Very nice bokeh!!

Sugoi desu!!

Mobile blog - Merii Kurisumasu

Merry Chrtistmas 2010!!! ;-)

Mobile blog - Flat tire

This was the First time that I changed a flat tire here. And on a Honda Civic at that (my car tech hands have been tainted!!).

Kidding aside, it was kinda neat since I got to help my friend. It was also good that the circumstances went our way.

My friend noticed the flat early enough and was able to park at a 7-Eleven. It happened during the daytime. Weather was good. We had the tools and 'expertise'. There was a tire shop close by amd my friend needed new tires anyways (and brake pads too as it turns out). The timing/scenario was good.

Things could've seriously gone the other way around, but we were fortunate. These little things we fail to notice at times and take for granted.

But in the end, I'm really glad things went well and the day ended with a very good note for everyone.

I wish it was a Lotus Exige 240s that I had to change the tires on though instead of a Civic.... ;-)

Ja ne!

Mobile blog - Sayonara Shiba-san

Visited the Oregon Humane Society to check out a couple of dogs that were up for adoption - the dogs were surrendered by a 'breeder' due to financial issues and being unable to care for the dogs.

There were various breeds, but I was curious with the three Shiba Inus they had.

I saw the first two, and they exhibited Shiba Inu aloofness around people. In fairness, they didn't have close human contact anyways, hence their being wary of people. Plus Shiba Inus are highly independent dogs, much like a personality of a Chow Chow.

But then here comes the third Shiba. Unlike the other two, this guy was active and personified the 'active side' of the Shiba Inu breed.

I asked about him and the attendant said that someone was already in line and was going to view the dog.

In the end, they did adopt 'Mike'. It was an interesting experience seeing the dog get a home for the holidays and it was very heartwarming.

It was an 'almost' adoption for me, and also the first time I've sen an actual Shiba Inu in person. I know the breed is not your typical lapdog and is a very independent breed - perhaps I will get to encounter another Shiba soon.

And hopefully then, I will be the one signing the adoption papers.

Omedetou, Shiba-san!

Mobile blog - Glass noodles

This particular dish is called 'sotanghon' - a Filipino dish using glass noodles. Pretty much like chow mein, but with a more 'slick' (literally) noodle base.

Itadkimasu!

Mobile blog - Hmmm...

Uh... this brand name in English doesn't mean anything, but in Filipino... ;-)

Poof...

I've been dropping the ball on a couple of things lately - that's just not myself, ack!

Must be the cold weather creeping in my head?

Need to get my act together... ah, maybe as part of the New Year's resolution then!


Exactly how I feel, Alfie (our former Chow Chow)

Sumimasen, mina-san!

Mobile blog - (Another) Hedgehog

A bigger Hedgehog plush toy...

Good thing real Hedgies don't grow this big!

Mobile blog - Hedgehog

A Hedgie plush toy. Interesting...

Mobile blog - Shaved Ice...

This was the shaved ice dessert that came with the kid's meal in Ohana Hawaiian.

At first I thought it was just the basic shaved ice deal - one flavor, ice not really shaved and more like chunks. But this was not the case here!

The ice was really shaved (with a cool ice shaving machine) and has soft snow consistency. And you get to pick more than one flavor!

Now that's a real shaved ice dessert! ;-)

Mobile blog - Ohana Hawaiian

Look what we have here... a nice serving of Loco Moco, a highly recommend selection from the Ohana Hawaiian restaurant's menu.

It's a nice and cozy little joint that serves good food. For those familiar with Hawaiian food, they have the usual fare like Shoyu chicken or the famous Kalua Pork. They even have entree combos where you can have two different entrees.

The servings are big, but there are serving size options for some of the selections. And they do have a 'kid's meal' size order that you can opt for - even if you are not 12 years old. :-)

Service is good, but be ready to wait a bit for your order. They do mention that for some orders it does take longer. So don't expect fast food speed here.

Worth the trip? If you're in no hurry to eat yes it is. It is street parking only but there are lots of spaces around the block for that.

Itadakimasu!

Mobile blog - Fish head...

This steamed Tilapia was staring me down (sideways).

Yummy entree' from the Thien Hong restaurant along Ne Sandy. It's been a 'default' order for most , if not all the times that I've been there.

Nice and healthy eating!

Mobile blog - A day at the outlet stores...

It's a nice and chilly day at the outlet stores.

Objective was to scout for gifts. Well... you know how that went. I ended up buying stuff for myself, ack! Oh well...

Looks like my 'last minute' Christmas gift shopping will really be up to the eleventh hour this year. :-o

Have you completed your Christmas list yet?

Mobile blog - Outlet store doggie

Looks like this dog has done his holiday shopping already.

Couldn't identify the breed - looks like a Sharpei mix.

I guess dogs have their shopping days too eh?

Mobile blog - 1000-piece puzzle

Someone left this 1k piece puzzle in our breakroom, and in a matter of 3 days it was complete.

I guess a lot of people had free time on their hands :-p

I did contribute to this build though - a whopping 5 pieces :-D

Mobile blog - Library card

After a long while, I finally got a hold of my city library card!

I've always wanted to get one, but then again this task always gets relegated to the 'ah-I-can-do-this-next-time' list.

I really did take my time with this. Now that I got it, I guess it's time to re-acquaint myself with these things called 'books'. ^_^

Cheers!

The Koi pond returns!

One of the unique attractions of the 'I Love Sushi' restaurant is their indoor Koi pond.

When they moved to their new location, the pond wasn't there and people started looking for it.

And finally, they've installed the pond back! Yey!

No fish yet, as you can see in the pic, as the pond is still being finished.

Will blog again when the kois are back and we'll have a sushi celebration to boot!

Then the koi fishes can definitely say 'Itadaima' at last.

Mobile blog - Merry...

Stuffed animal Christmas tree for the win!!

Amazing!

Mobile blog - Happy Thanksgiving!

Here's to a fun and safe Thanksgiving to all!

Now... to go eat some more... *burp*... 'Scuse me!

Itadakimasu!

Documentary Film Festival

A big congratulations to our friend, Monster (yes, that's her nickname), for their documentary film, "Kano", which has made it to the IDFA (International Documentary Film Festival Amsterdam)!

Here's a link to the IDFA site

And a link to Arkeofilms, their film production shop.

And their film has been shortlisted for 1st appearance competition - here's wishing Monster and her crew all the luck! And another round of applause for Pinoy talent here!

It seems just like a while ago that Monster and her two good friends flew here to the NW to do their data gathering and interviews for the film. And it was around this time of year too - very glad to have met them, courtesy of my good buddy who happens to also be Monster's cousin. Small world eh?

We're all very happy for you guys! Hope to see you guys here again in the NW soon - we still have a lot of places to check out ;-)

**** UPDATE 11/26/2010: And their film won in the IDFA's First Appearance Award!! Congrats to Monster and ArkeoFilms!! Awesome achiement guys, and here's wishing you all the best and more fantastic projects to come!! Cheers!!! ****

Omedetou, mina-san!

Mobile blog - 'Ol friend...

The McRib is back at the golden arches!

And I just had to try it out. Still good! Definitely not a healthy choice but it's not like you'd eat it all the time.

I even read about McRib fans who are petitioning to have it standard in the Mcd's menu. But then that would make it boring, ne?

For the McRib fans, enjoy it while it's available!

Mobile blog - Sumo meal!

A big plate of teriyaki goodness at Samurai Sam's.

They have good teriyaki and a decent selection of toppings with steamed rice or yakisoba.

The 'sumo plate' pictured would be good for two... Or for one who is really quite hungry :-)

Itadakimasu!!

Mobile blog - Enfield

Not the rifle, but the motorcycle.

Styling is quite unique and retro. Snapped a pic of one in the parking garage.

Not sure what cc, but looks like a 250 to me...

Mobile blog - Wonton-for-the-Win!

I had set on a nice ham and turkey sammich for dinner, and when I was getting the stuff from the fridge, one of the menus stuck on the fridge door fell off.

It happened to be the To-go menu of Good Taste, and as I picked it up, I glanced at it and the Wonton noodle soup menu stood out!

Dang... I had to get one! Considering I passed on an opportunity for it last week when I was down with a fever. So off I drove to Good Taste!

It was a very wet night too but that just added to the 'perfection' of the ambience of having a nice hot bowl of noodle soup on a quiet, rainy night.

When I got seated, I didn't waste time and ordered the roast pork and wonton noodle from the menu. As it looked in the menu's picture, I assumed they'd skimp on the tasty wonton in lieu of the added roast pork. How wrong I was...

My order came and it was packed with the roast pork and wonton. And there was at least 6 wonton in it!

What is cooler is that it is as good as it looks. Very good as a matter of fact! Now I could be biased since I was hungry and craving for it - but I think a lot will agree once they try this dish out.

I left with a full tummy and a very satisfied customer. I'm really glad my friend told me about this place - as I will definitely recommend it to everyone else for sure!

Sugoi, danzen!! :-)

Mobile blog - Shiisa Yaibiin!

As Osaka in Azumanga Daioh would say... "Shiisa Yaibiin"!

Just had to take a pic of this Shiisa displayed at a local mall here.

And yes, I was quite tempted to shout out "Shiisa Yaibiin" as how Osaka did it in the anime... would've been a scene I bet :-D

Mobile blog - Sushi Fridays

Yep, a new routine for Fall is my Sushi-to-go-Fridays. Since my fave sushi place is packed during Friday nights I usually get stuff to go instead.

Sometimes fun to eat sushi at home - with warm sake or hot tea of course!

... and your favorite anime (and characters) programming on the side!

Itadakimasu!

Mobile blog - Pocky!

Yes, the 'elusive' giant Pocky! One Pocky stick individually wrapped. I wonder how may of the small ones equate to a single giant Pocky?

The standard Pocky still is the fave though, since it is still more 'portable' - and easier to deal with while working with your favorite handheld gaming device... or smart phone... or netbook... ;-)

Mobile blog - WtF(ish)!?

Yes it is a fish... of some sort. Rock fish or Pomfret? Not sure.

But it is very edible and tasty!

Just don't stare at its head while eating... ;-)

Itadakimasu!

Mobile Blog - An Udon a day...

It's foggy and cold outside. And I've got this sore throat...

Nothing a hot bowl of Udon can't fix!

T'is the time of 'soup' weather. Nothing beats snacking on a nice bowl of hot Udon or ramen on a cold Autumn day!

I wish it would also help drive away this impending cold/cough coming my way...

More Udon, kudasai!!!

Mobile blog - Makoto Japanese Buffet

Checked out this new Japanese buffet place in Vancouver, WA called Makoto.

Still kinda new, and it shows with the long waiting line at the entrance, which they say is fairly common specially during dinner.

First impressions - nice place, got enough parking. The food ranges from the usual cooked fare to sashimi and sushi combos.

The sushi is ok. Nothing great (this is a buffet after all). Some variety of rolls, nigiri, and sashimi. I made sure I got my money's worth on this section of the buffet ;-)

I do agree with one reviewer who mentioned the sushi isn't solidly built and some tend to crumble once picked up and moved to your plate. But then again, I guess that's sacrificing some quality for quantity, since they have to churn out new batches quickly.

The grilling stuff is great, and you can pick different meats and even seafood then have it cooked. It's like a Mongolian-style cooking section.

Ah and the dessert is really good, specially the cakes (then again I'm a sucker for cakes). They also have fruits and ice cream, the latter being served in individual cups which is kinda cool.

Service is ok but could be better.

Is this a place to come back again to? Yes, I think so. The price and food is good and worth the drive out if you're really raring for a big meal. If not and you're just looking for sushi only, perhaps check out your closest sushi-go-round or sushi bar instead.

I will come back though since I wasn't able to get ice cream :-D

Itadakimasu!

Mobile blog - Fall

... is really here. Colder weather and longer nights. Time for the Fall photos to trickle in.

Ja ne!

Persona P3P: Shin Megami Tensei gaming 'to-go'

It was the Persona 3 on the PS2 that lured me back to RPG gaming.

I have never played an RPG game that I was so immersed with as much as the Persona series. Maybe since the characters are well done? And easy to relate to somehow? It's no HD eye candy either, and this kind of game shows you that you don't have to be all visuals to make an impact in the gaming world.

For Persona 3 on the PS2, I had 160+ hours of play time (I know...lame!), and the sequel, Persona 4, I have at least 100+ hours. But that's in a span of months, ok? Still, a lot of time devoted to these games.

I never planned on getting a PSP, but when it was confirmed that Atlus was releasing/porting Persona 3 to the PSP, that was my cue to get one.


P3P: Persona 3 Portable comes to the PSP. And now, there are two main characters to choose from.
After getting the PSP, I got P3P the same day. The PSP was going to be worth what I paid for already in a matter of days...

The game mechanics are pretty much the same from the PS2 version. Same setting/plot, and characters. However, this time, you have the option to play a female main character. This character has a little bit different story arc, so it's a worthwhile to go this route for those who have already completed and finished Persona 3 on the PS2. There are differences in the character interaction when playing the female MC, and also some new background music added.

Since the PSP is a smaller unit, a couple of sacrifices had to be made during the porting. For one, the anime cut scenes have been removed. Too bad though as this adds to the story's visual.


You use a red 'cursor' to move around town and the places that you wish to go to.
Navigation through town and within the school is also different. Instead of a running/walking avatar, you just move a circle and highlight/hover to locations that you want to go to.

But when inside Tartarus (the main 'battlefield' during the 'Dark Hour') you have your avatar running around as you navigate and fight with the enemies (the 'Shadows').

Battle sequences are still the same. P3P is turn based, same as its PS2 counterpart. You get to pick your moves/actions (take as long as you like, but not too long ok) so that you can strategize first, and then execute the action.


When engaging the Shadows, you get the option to allow you to control the actions of the other party members. And yes... that is a 'Santa Outfit' that you see and is available in-game... Merry Christmas :-)
The nice thing is that Atlus incorporated the extended/manual control option that they introduced in Persona 4. This allows you to 'decide' for the other characters in the game (non-playable characters) so that you can pick from their abilities manually, rather than having to rely on the AI and pray that it picks the right ability when you need it during battle.

Persona fusion (i.e., merging personas and creating new, more powerful ones) is still the same as the PS2 version.

Social links, which are relationships formed within the party members or other non-playable characters, are also still included in the game. These social links correspond to points that apply when doing Persona fusions that adds bonuses. Think of it like an experience points boost.

There are also some added 'side-quests', such as rescuing people who stray into Tartarus during the dark hour, and the doing part-time work and earning some cash to upgrade you and your team's equipment.

As of this writing, I have 70+ hours logged in P3P and past a little bit halfway through the entire game. At this rate, I might be replicating the number of hours I had with the PS2 version... or even more :-o

For fans of this RPG series (Shin Megami Tensei), this is something to get and try out. You get the awesome playability of P3 on the PS2, with the added convenience of being able to play it on-the-go.

I also recommend getting the extended battery as this will help greatly in the playtime.

Now, I wonder where's Atlus at on the Persona 5 development, which has been rumored (and semi-confirmed) to be released on the PS3. Soon enough, I hope!

Cheers all! :-)

Test Drive: 2011 Ford Mustang

Got the 2011 Stang ready, bright and early.

I was 'assigned' a white one, which makes it seem like my car (which is also white) transformed into something else.

Stepping inside felt 'foreign' for a while. This is was not the interior quality I was expecting. It was very nice. Granted, this model had the premium package, so it has the leather seats (powered seats for driver), nicer interior trim, and a decent sound system with satellite radio, multi-cd (MP3 capable), USB and auxiliary inputs, and steering wheel mounted controls.


Ford retained the 'retro' styling for the gauges, which is a good move in my opinion.
The dash gauges still sported the retro styling that I believe fits very well with the vehicle. Power windows have both auto up/down (the auto up might be a little safety concern there).

We had a nice drive planned out, and the weather cooperated nicely. Perfect to test the Stang in both highway and city driving.

The Stang's engine response is way better, compared to the previous generations (which should be the case), with the new aluminum 305hp V6 engine, mated to a 6-speed automatic transmission. Of course I was craving a for the 6-speed manual unit, but then again they don't rent those, oh well.


At first glance you won't see much of a difference from the 2010 model - until you look under the hood and actually drive it.
The 305 horses made their presence felt as I floored the skinny pedal at one point, albeit it took a second or two before that light push back feeling. Which just made me miss having the 6-speed manual transmission more. I can image already how much 'kick' the GT model (5.0L engine with 412hp) would deliver - can't wait to figure a way to test drive one!

Driving within city limits felt ok too. The electronic-assisted power steering felt a bit light, but still transmitted enough feedback and didn't feel numb specially when making turns. The 'road feel' is still there.

The AC works well, and pumps in the cool air nicely. One nitpick with the climate control though - it sat too low on the console and the transmission handle blocks the view from the driver side, so you would have to reach over or around the transmission handle to adjust the temps.


I'd say Ford did a good job with the Mustang. Good enough that I am considering getting one again...soon perhaps?
The speakers on the stereo system were so-so, but I did like the USB interface that recognized my iPod and allowed full control via the stereo's interfaces. Yes, the unit had the Microsoft Sync on it, but I didn't fiddle with it (for fear the system might reboot or something...hehehe).

Another little gripe is the positioning of the cigarette lighter adaptor. I don't know why the positioned it up high in between the main A/C vents. If you would be sticking only one device on it, I guess it would be fine. But if you have more than one device and use an extension, it'll look a bit weird sticking out in the middle.

Trunk space is surprisingly generous too. I was able to fit my medium sized cooler in it, together with some other stuff (pastries, Jollibee stuff, Dasio goodies...).
Overall, the Mustang was solid and felt sure on the road. Of course, better tires and wheels (and suspension) would've added to a more exciting drive feel.


The 5.0 GT with a 6-speed manual and in Kona Blue would fit nicely in the garage...
Having a 6-speed manual would've added to the driving experience immensely, but the auto tranny ain't that bad. Boring, but not that bad... but nevertheless, zzzz...

Kudos to Ford for the updates introduced into the iconic Mustang. And with the return of the 5.0 engine, they just upped the ante a bit in new era for the muscle cars of this century.


Yes, even Rin 'approves' of the new model Mustang...

Now... to figure out how I get to test drive a 5.0 GT.

Or a Shelby perhaps? Doesn't hurt to dream ;-)

Drive safe folks!

The 'Stang's comeback

My first vehicle here in the US was a Ford Mustang. Why a Mustang? Back home, I've always liked it. It has always been an 'icon' of sorts and I remember always reading about it in the car magazines and having model Mustang cars (both die-cast and plastic).

So it was a real treat for me to have been able to own one. It was a V6 model only though, but hey, it's still a 'Stang.

The model I had didn't even reach 200hp. It only had around 190+hp and 220+ of torque. And is still sported the aging pushrod V6 engine, which a lot of folks considered was due for a change.

Ford introduced the new Mustang body style with the 2005 model, taking cues from the classic Fastback design (Bullitt, anyone?). At this point they still had the same old engine though, so nothing to write home about, performance-wise.

Come 2011, Ford finally did a major revamp of the Mustang's internals. They dropped the old engine, and in its place came a new aluminum engine (with variable valve timing) for both models. The V6 got the 3.7 and the V8 got the (revived) 5.0 engine. And both had drastic power changes at 305 hp/280 tq for the
V6, and 412 hp/377 tq for the V8. And they're a little lighter now, since it is an all aluminum engine.

The interior is leaps and bounds from the 2001-2004 models.

So with all this talk about the new 'Stang, I decided to try one out and see for myself.

Test drive details on the next blog!

Mobile blog - Mashita Teriyaki

If you're looking for a good 'business/industrial district' lunch place along NW Nicolai in Portland, check out Mashita Teriyaki.

Now don't expect ambience here ok? But the food is decent and cheap, and they don't skimp on the serving. You're looking at around $6-8/meal here.

As for the actual food, the entree is served on a bed of rice with veggies on the side (the usual cabbage, carrots, and broccoli). Their teriyaki sauce is good, and there is also yakisoba for the noodle lovers. You can pick from chicken or beef (or combine them), and add-ons like pot stickers and egg rolls.

The service is quick and the staff is very friendly. From the outside the place looks non-descript but don't let that fool you. Parking is kinda limited too.

Overall, it's a good place for a quick lunch. And with the amount of serving, one may end up with leftovers for dinner too. ;-)

Black Rock Shooter (BRS) Nendoroid

It was a given that Black Rock Shooter (BRS) would be sculpted in Nendoroid (chibi) form.

And as always, Good Smile Company came out with another awesome piece.

This is a fully packed kit, and also employs a new kind of base/stand. Normally the Nendoroid bases are plain clear plastic. In this case, the base has a design and matches the Black Rock Shooter motif.


Black Rock Shooter sitting on a...rock cannon...
And it also comes with a new support stand, two of them in fact. One is for supporting the Nendoroid to stand, and the other serves as support to Black Rock Shooter's rock cannon for a particular 'floating pose', just like in the picture below.


The new stand system is unique and allows for different 'dynamic' poses. I wonder if spare parts can be ordered from GSC if one breaks...
The package also comes with the BRS DVD Anime Project. It's a region free DVD, main audio is Japanese and subtitles in seven languages. The guys who made this project really put a lot of effort into it.

And this all just started as a drawing/sketch, which became an inspiration and translated into music, and eventually, to this animated feature.

To date, the BRS Nendoroid has so many accessories, and will definitely be a classic. The build quality is also amazing and GSC is learning from past products and continues to introduce innovation and updates for every new figure release, and not only with Nendos but with full scale ones too.

Kudos to Good Smile company for another hit! Omedetou!

Mobile blog - 'Sweet' Spaghetti?

Yup, that's the Filipino style spaghetti sauce. On the sweet/salty side, with emphasis on 'sweet'.

Tried it out for dinner, adding it to sauteed ground beef to complete the meat sauce. Sort of complete, as a friend reminded me of a key ingredient that I forgot to add - sliced hotdogs. I guess I can always add it later!

This particular brand is faithful to the flavor that I remember, though a tad bit sweeter. Still, it's good and works well with a side of garlic toast.

Itadakimasu!

A Day in the Japanese Garden

One of the main attractions here in the city I stay in would be the Japanese Garden. I've actually been there only twice, including this current visit.

We were blessed with good weather when we visited the garden this time. The last time we planned the visit the weather wasn't really cooperating, and the Japanese Garden became Seafood City instead (see my blog on that) :-P

It is always a treat to see the Japanese Garden, regardless of the weather (well, as long as it is not too cold...). There is a nominal fee to get it, but then you get to see and 'explore' a very nicely maintained and well kept facility. You can really see the care and effort that is made to keep the area very pristine and in order.

One will notice the 'order of things' - a sense of symmetry. Or at least it felt that way.


Very nice Zen garden - would be cool to have something like this in the backyard, even if just a quarter or less of the scale.
Usually there are events being held in the place, and this time, there was an Ikebana exhibit.

Ikebana is the art of Japanese flower arrangement. And yes, they do have 'senseis' that study this art to perfection and even have classes for it.

Each item that is included in an arrangement is significant and plays a role in the overall result, from the actual flowers and to the smallest twig/stick. Positioning of the items also matter.



Ikebena exhibit in the main presentation hall.
After the exhibit we continued to browse around and enjoy the scenery. They do not allow food inside (which is actually good), but you can bring water in.

I wish they had a small snack stand outside at the least. I can imagine a concession stand that sells takoyaki, yakitori, and rolls.


Koi anyone?
This is a place that I highly recommend to visit if you are in the Portland area. The nice thing about the location too is that it is just beside the city's zoo, and the famous Rose Garden (yep, all Roses here Capt. Obvious...).


The pond looked very 'tranquil'. We were waiting for a Koi or something to jump out.
Maybe next time we'll try a Winter visit - that would seriously change the scenery, specially if there is snow!

Itterashai!