MERCY'S FABULOUS 40!

 by: MisS VictoriA DaviD

Life begins at 40 as an old adage goes quoted by the late Walter Boughton Pitkin. There is so much truth in the saying as this is when we don't care much what other people think about us; we appreciate the meaning of life profoundly and even value the most simple things we once discarded in life. 

On the 04th of December this year, a pre-organised birthday social gathering was arranged for her 40th year of existence on Earth. It was zingy shared amongst her incessant sisters, recent friends and additional faces in the group. Apart from the glamorous company of her ladies, the presence of Mercy's amicable husband gave her confidence to jovially blow out the candle on the cake. 

(David and Mercy)

Mercy's life elatedly came into being when she met the inamorato of her heart who cheered her up and supported her endeavours in life. Ever since then, David's love for Mercy gave the way to turn most of her and their dreams into reality. Their life love story is like the euphoric version of Cinderella and her Prince Charming in a fairytale book!

All of her friends were invited but only 12 glamorous ladies confirmed the pre-organised dinner that was arranged by Krystal Ordillano. She used the online social media, Facebook, to create an ad hoc page intended for Mercy's Fabulous 40! Such power of combined new technology and the ubiquitous internet which brings more convenience into our daily activities. Additionally, it was an efficient and cost effective method of communicating to the invited friends and guests. 

(The organiser, Krystal Ordillano)

Bustled Piccadilly Circus teemed with frisky people and calmed Savini at Criterion lined-up with dining table sets... 

 

As I walked into the venue I saw the tapering structure of the enormous hanging chandeliers; they were overpowering the brass effect high ceiling. Besides, they were also enlightening the ambiance of Savini at Criterion. I walked further into the venue and went up a short plight of steps then I saw long paned Victorian windows that created a humble abode effect and a handsome nouveau stone fireplace shone out its polished beauty. Amusingly, it reminded me of Lady Catherine de Bourgh's fireplace at Rosings. It was of prodigious dimensions! On the other hand, I suddenly found myself thinking of the warm feeling I have being at home. 

Our formally laid table was set and arrayed with cutlery & plates; drinking & wine glasses; types of bottled water & sauces and clear vases with coffee seeds & candles. The prearranged chairs were half full but with the presence of the birthday celebrant herself and her husband. I was new in the group which is why Mercy introduced me to her friends who arrived early. We exchanged names with a bit of chit chat while waiting for the rest to arrive. Gradually, they appeared one by one until all of the empty chairs were occupied by the glamorous ladies who came from different parts of England. Most of them have known each other for years and their cordial personalities were warm when I was socialising with them. Particularly with Kristine, Daisy and David (Mercy's husband). 

Upon waiting for the rest to arrive, we were also munching the complimentary white/brown ciabatta rolls that we glazed in butter, dipped in olive oil and soaked in balsamic vinegar. It filled us all up while waiting for our starter to punch the clock of the birthday meal. They served us with one of Milan's most iconic and authentic dishes called Risotto alla Milanese. I have to say that the creamy compound ingredients penetrated well the cooked Italian rice grains and sustained their flavours, too. Apart from that, the Carnaroli/ Vialone nano grains were cooked in such a way that the crunchiness was retained. Especially the truffle's unique aroma and taste made the plates' presentation more appetising in our all our eyes. It was superb! 

(Courtesy of Google Images)

We had a short break and enjoyed our desired drinks but complimentary bottles of wine were just on the table. Chit chats continued and catching up progressed amongst us. I have to say, we were all buoyant and high-spirited because of selfies and group pictures. Why we would not be? Bright people always capture memorable moments for them to keep and share to their family and friends. Am I right glamorous ladies? 

The waiter showed up and we were asked who was having this and that for the main course. It was primarily a meat viand called Sirloin of Veal sliced which was medium grilled or done. It was dressed, seasoned and served on our plates sprucely. It pleased my taste buds with the way it was done. In particular, the sides of the meat were rich brown colour; top and bottom charred darkly and the middle was still firm to touch. 

Our plates were collected and we were now left with our drinks to clear out the passage of our throats. The organiser handed over to each and everyone of us a token of appreciation and for attending Mercy's birthday party. It was a goody bag containing personalised red wine bottle for Mercy's 40th birthday, luscious chocolates and a Yuletide card. Very thoughtful and sweet of Kristine to even surprise us despite being under pressured because of the untraceable ordered cake. I took my hat off to her for holding her composure during the unexpected circumstances. I was once an organiser of events in the past and unexpected issues will test your equanimity. It was a grace under pressure for Kristine which went very smoothly after the birthday cake was traced and found out. 

Most of us sat back and relaxed while some headed into the powder room. They were freshening up for more selfies and group pictures. Just a joke! Hmmmp, we were a bit loosen up and also very much ready to be filled up with the dessert and be fascinated by its appearance. It was an apple-pie order which invited most of us to take different image angles of Tiramisu. What a satisfyingly addictive and I wish the fork was made out of chocolate, too! 

The untraceable cake was handed over to the Savini employee and it came back on our table with a delightful lit candle. A melting moment colourful cake generously stuffed with small, pulpy and edible berries and moated with edible white/dark brown chocolate sticks. Apart from that, the desirable birthday greeting was made out of chocolate and edible, too. It was a chocolate syrup and sweet delight! 

We were all very full up and the gathering continued with the handing over of memento from the celebrant herself to all of us. She wrapped with love a Mediterranean spa scented candle made from nature's own wax; an overpowering dried flower calming scent bag and a miniature thoughtful remembrance card. 

The taking of selfies, group pictures and the used of Kristine's polaroid camera brighten once again the beauty of the glamorous ladies. We were all dressed up and bound to have more pictures to depict how cheerful we have been. Succinctly, we calmed down and all went back in our chairs where we enjoyed sipping our chosen hot drinks with complimentary biscuits from Savini at Criterion. 

Birthdays are one of the most special or if not, the memorable events in one's life!

MY SISTERS AND I

by: MisS VictoriA DaviD

We planned a get together and I delayed it for a week. But last Sunday (December 8) we met- up and travelled to a few touristy places in Central London.

Ladies and gentlemen meet my beautiful and kind-hearted sisters, Tina and Jence.

Tina and Jence

Tina and I are just a few streets away while Jence on the other hand, lives approximately 20 minutes away from Victoria Station by bus. So, days before our get together we all had agreed to use Victoria Station as rendezvous.

Tina and Vicky

Last Sunday complete with out warm and snug clothing, Tina and I travelled together on a cold yet sunny day. Just 30 minutes on the train and we arrived at the vast Terminus of Victoria Station. But there was no single trace of Jence. We called her mobile and after 10 minutes of waiting, she appeared in front of us. That was quick of her!

We were reunited and we made our way through the busy Station with smiles on our faces...

Jence, Tina and Vicky

Our first destination was Hyde Park where we explored London’s largest and most dazzling winter event called Winter Wonderland. I was flabbergasted how packed the queue was at the main entrance and also how very slow the queue moved, it was like being in a funeral procession. After being squeezed, we were welcomed by a bazaar that sells home-made jewellery, food and household stuff, winter accessories and a lot more. We didn’t buy anything as we were not sure if there products/items were worth the money. Instead, we continued walking until family friendly and ultra extreme rides were revealed in our sights.

 (CLICK to enlarge)

We were hungry after the exploration, so we decided to leave behind Winter Wonderland's delights.

It was already getting dark as we walked through the park, eventually ending up at Brompton road where the world's most famous luxury department store is situated, HARRODS. We took a few pictures, then tired and hungry we jumped on a bus going to Earl's Court.

Suddenly we got anxious on the bus as we were thinking that we had already passed Earl's Court. We look outside the window and when we saw the glistening name of Earl's Court from afar, our agitation vanished. The journey on the bus took ages but I preferred it more than being trapped in a dungeon atmosphere of the underground. At long last we arrived, we walked two blocks more before reaching the Sunrise Cafe & Restaurant. A Filipino restaurant that offered Eat-All-You Can in a buffet style for only £8.50. I have to say that their Filipino delicacies filled our hungry stomachs and even, cured my cravings for the food I know and love from home.

After our feast at the warm and welcoming Sunrise Cafe we went to our last destination, Piccadilly circus. We explored Leicester Square first where we walked down the street and took humorous pictures of ourselves and a few retail buildings. After our fun, we stopped at the nearest Mcdonald's which was opposite M&M's. A chocolate company originated in the USA in 1941 and famous for its colourful button-shaped candies with variety of fillings.

 

 (CLICK to enlarge)

 

Our energies were falling and we just all want to go back home. However, we mustered deep reserves and decided to track down Soho as it wasn’t that far from where we were. We walked and sauntered around Soho hoping to see sexy shows but alas they were all behind closed doors! NO, we were not there for that, we only wished to absorb the atmosphere of Soho at night. Honestly speaking, we found nothing but several eerie alleyways.

THE 2013 REUNION OF THE SISTAHS

by:  MisS VictoriA DaviD

( CLICK to enlarge )

Sistahs Forever!

The last time we toured around some parts of Central London was in 2011 but in November 2012 we reassembled in one particular place for a special occasion. The event that brought the 3 of us together again was a Birthday party for our sister Jence at Clapham Junction. It was delightful with a warmth welcomed from her family and was enlivened with laughters and entertainment all through the party.

 

Tina and I are approximately 1 mile apart from each other's homes but Jence, lives much farther away from us two. On the 13^th of January this year, the reunion that was supposed to be in 2012 took place with no more cancellations and excuses. On that day, Tina and I travelled all the way from Wallington to Victoria Terminus Station just to meet our sister Jence. We arrived on time and were expecting Jence to arrive a bit late than the agreed time. However, we waited almost an hour before she finally appeared in front of us with the gifts in her hands.

I was very patient while waiting for Jence inside the station. Its because she informed us by text messages that she'll be late. But Tina was getting quite intolerant when we were standing after 30 minutes while waiting for Jence. Actually, Tina was just hungry and that made her patience and endurance very limited (LOL!).

Hooray and the 3 of us were now together again!

When the time Jence had arrived, we were all dying to eat and drink in a warm restaurant. And on our way out, we were conversing where to go and I suggested, Earl's Court. One of a few districts in London where you can find Filipino Restaurants as well as convenience Stores. But Jence wasn't eager to travel that far and said that there was a Filipino Restaurant at Buckingham Palace Road. Which was only a walking distance from Victoria Station.

I really had no knowledge that there was a Filipino Store nearby. That's why, I said YES to give it a try in order to know what they can offer for us 3, beautiful women. We entered the MANNA SHA'MEYN store and bought a few ingredients as well as delicacies before we finally agreed to eat inside.

 (Top to Bottom: 2011 Picture and 2013 Picture)

After filling ourselves with Filipino food, our escapade started in a slow walk going to the Bus Stop. We boarded and sat comfortably on a double decker bus which took us to London's West End in the city of Westminster centered on Piccadilly Circus.

We arrived and joint the hyper mixed crowd heading to the busy and famous Regent Street...

The first store we entered to, was a Dutch clothing company offering 30 unique fashion brands for men and women called, THE STING. A shop with over 3 floors and I thought they were only selling expensive clothing given the quality of their fabric as well as the trendy and funky designs too. As a matter of fact, Jence ended up purchasing the blouse she tried on as a treat for herself. While she was in the fitting room, Tina and I took a few pictures and we also had the chance to take some of the 3 of us too while facing the huge wall fitted mirror.

 (Left to Right: 2011 Picture @  Ripley's Believe It of Not
and 2013 Picture @ The Sting)

After looking around The Sting we moved to a unique shop with a tinge of eroticism, HOLLISTER/ GILLY HICKS. A store with hot lifeguards and beautiful store models. It makes the hottest push 'em up bras and the cutest undies for young, beautiful and assertive girls. But before we entered the store, a few snapshots were taken against their one-of-a-kind breathtaking video wall that captures live feed from Sydney's Bondi beach. When we finally entered the store, we were greeted and blown away by a charming handsome man whose sporty hood was unzipped and his abs was exposed. Hmmmm! Aside from exploring what's inside their unique store, we had our solo pictures taken beside the hoody guy with their own Polaroid camera and the 3 of us with him too using our camera. We were like teenagers giggling with so much cheerfulness in our minds!

 

It was like having daydreams at the same time and ceased only when we tried a few sunglasses from ZARA fashion company. In this store, we were mimicking the elegant Jackie O'Nasses who was famous in the world for wearing pairs of dark sunglasses alluringly.

Everybody knows M&M candy store which is famous for its hard candy shells coated with chocolate confectionery. Literally, this retail store has a branch in Leicester Square, London which is not far from Regent Street. That's why, we rushed along the main road of Coventry Street before M&M closed at 6PM, so we could see the colourful and coruscating candy store.

 (Left to Right: 2011 Picture and 2013 Picture)

If I wasn't mistaken, we explored most of the areas and floors of M&M candy store that night. And we were quite tired and thirsty after joining the tourist who were in the store too. That's why, we looked for relaxing place and found one at SOHO SQUARE. Actually, we really had no idea about the pub we entered to but at the end, we found it amiable and friendly. Without a doubt, it was a nice drinking establishment to visit!

I think, once you are in the West End of London, finding a comfortable place to rest your weary feet ain’t that difficult as it has lots to offer. If you are not that finicky like the 3 of us?

Regardless of the fact that our get together to Central London took more than a year before it happened again. Our friendship as SISTERS has become so much closer and we are more open to one another. The time that had passed didn’t matter at all once all 3 of us met this time.