In the midst of World War II and the Holocaust, “Life Is Beautiful” emerges as a cinematic gem that leaves an indelible mark on the soul. Directed by Roberto Benigni, this Italian masterpiece takes us on a poignant journey through the life of Guido, a spirited and loving Jewish man, and his extraordinary efforts to protect his son amidst the horrors of a concentration camp. Through its captivating plot, the film reminds us of the power of love, laughter, and unwavering resilience, even in the darkest of times.
Plot Summary:
Set in pre-war Italy, “Life Is Beautiful” introduces us to Guido, a charming and charismatic man played by Roberto Benigni. Guido’s life takes an enchanting turn when he falls in love with Dora, portrayed by Nicoletta Braschi, a beautiful schoolteacher. Their budding romance is filled with joy, laughter, and playful moments, creating a heartwarming atmosphere.
However, the outbreak of World War II interrupts their idyllic existence. Guido, Dora, and their son Giosué are forcibly separated and sent to a concentration camp. Guido’s unwavering love for his family drives him to protect his young son from the horrors of the camp. To shield Giosué from the harsh reality, Guido cleverly turns their daily struggles into a game. He convinces Giosué that they are participating in an elaborate competition to win a tank, transforming the grim circumstances into a world of imagination, hope, and laughter.
Guido’s unwavering optimism and quick wit provide solace and strength to Giosué amidst the darkness that surrounds them. Through his ingenious acts, Guido brings joy and a sense of normalcy to Giosué’s life, demonstrating the power of the human spirit to triumph over despair.
The film showcases the daily challenges faced by Guido and the prisoners, as well as the relentless cruelty of their captors. Despite the atrocities, Guido’s spirit remains unbroken, radiating love, compassion, and resilience. His sacrifices and selflessness are portrayed with gut-wrenching intensity, as he puts his own life on the line to protect his son and ensure his survival.
In a heartrending conclusion, Guido’s ultimate sacrifice brings a glimmer of redemption and hope. Years later, we witness the profound impact of Guido’s teachings on a grown-up Giosué, revealing the lasting legacy of love, courage, and resilience that Guido has left behind.
Conclusion:
Life Is Beautiful invites us to reflect on the profound meaning of love and resilience. The film teaches us to find beauty in unexpected places. In a concentration camp, where darkness overshadows all, Guido’s ability to infuse moments with laughter and joy is a testament to the human capacity for resilience and the triumph of the human spirit. It encourages us to shift our perspective and see beyond the surface, discovering the glimmers of beauty that exist even in the most unlikely of circumstances.
As the credits roll, tears stream down to my face, mingling sorrow and awe. Life Is Beautiful leaves an indelible mark on my soul, reminding me that amidst the harshest realities, the most heart-wrenching tragedies, and the deepest sorrows, life’s inherent beauty persists. It urges me to cherish every moment, to hold my loved ones close, and to embrace the incredible gift of life, no matter what challenges we may face.
One of the most captivating aspects of Attack on Titan lies in its remarkable character development. The series portrays a wide array of individuals who each contribute to the story in their unique ways. While some characters, such as my personal favorite Jean, bring an undeniable charm and enjoyment to the narrative, others captivate us with their intricate motivations, as seen in the case of Reiner, or their pivotal roles within the complex tapestry of the plot, exemplified by Erwin. However, it is Kenny Ackerman who undergoes a truly unexpected and profound transformation, ultimately presenting one of the most authentic character arcs in the entire Attack on Titan series, leaving viewers thoroughly satisfied.
As Kenny’s life slips away, his struggle to survive stems not from a fear of death, despite acknowledging it. Instead, he persists for one final purpose. Being well acquainted with Levi, whom he unveils as his nephew, Kenny anticipates their meeting before his demise. His expectations are fulfilled.
In his parting moments, delivering what I consider to be one of the most profound anime quotes about life, Kenny imparts his newfound wisdom. He realizes that every individual is bound by servitude to something. While he mentions examples like alcohol and religion, the overarching conclusion remains unchanged. As previously described by Casey in an earlier article discussing the same manga scene, “As human beings, we inherently become slaves to various entities. It is ingrained in our nature to serve, whether it’s a divine entity, fellow humans, an idea, an object, an idol, nature, or even ourselves. We are destined to be enslaved by something.”
While Kenny’s heinous actions cannot be justified, it is undeniable that they stem from the discrimination and violence inflicted upon his people. His violent and self-centered nature naturally led him towards pursuing power, specifically the power held by Uri, the Founding Titan. However, in a surprising turn of events contradicting Kenny’s very essence, his final act revealed that, unbeknownst to him, his deep friendship with Uri and the kindness Uri extended towards him had actually redirected his allegiance. Instead of seeking to prolong his own life, Kenny made the selfless choice to bestow that power upon Levi, his beloved “adopted son,” effectively granting him the gift of life. In this unexpected twist, Kenny had become a slave to an entirely different cause.
“A king with so much power bowed down to someone as lowly as me. That titan left me speechless… More importantly, I felt something in me waver at that moment.”
In a stunning turn of events, Kenny, once regarded as the epitome of depravity, experienced a remarkable transformation as his life drew to a close, ultimately finding redemption.
How I see this chapter relevant in real life situations
As human beings, our innate inclination is to serve and be devoted to something or someone. Whether it is God, other individuals, an idea, an object, an idol, nature, or even ourselves, we are bound to become slaves to a certain cause. The Bible acknowledges that all humans are inherently slaves to sin (Romans 6:20), but it also presents an opportunity for us to choose to serve God as our ultimate Master instead (1 Corinthians 7:22). However, this choice of allegiance requires careful discernment and selectivity. Matthew 6:24 encapsulates this notion effectively:
“No man can serve two masters: for either he will hate the one, and love the other; or else he will hold to the one, and despise the other. Ye cannot serve God and mammon.”
God desires our complete devotion, not lukewarm or half-hearted loyalties. Jesus bestowed upon his disciples a profound task, a sacred mission, to spread the Gospel to the farthest corners of the world (Acts 1:8). As followers of Christ, we are entrusted with the responsibility of embodying His essence here on earth to such an extent that those around us can tangibly witness the love, peace, and divine radiance of God shining through our lives.
Batangas is a province located in the Calabarzon region of the Philippines. It’s known for its beautiful beaches, rich history, and vibrant culture. The province is home to various natural wonders, historic sites, and cultural landmarks that make it an exciting and diverse place
Taal Volcano: A Wonder to Behold, A Force to Reckon With
One of the most popular attractions in Batangas is Taal Volcano. Located in Talisay, this active volcano is one of the smallest in the world, standing at just 311 meters high and is surrounded by a lake. It’s a popular destination for tourists who want to hike up to the crater and enjoy the panoramic view of the surrounding landscape. Despite its size, Taal Volcano is one of the most active and dangerous volcanoes in the Philippines, with more than 30 recorded eruptions in the past 500 years.
Taal Volcano is located on an island in Taal Lake, which is itself situated within a larger caldera formed by previous volcanic activity. The volcano’s main crater is filled with water, creating a picturesque lake within the volcano. Visitors can take a boat ride to the island, then hike up to the crater to see the stunning view of the lake and surrounding landscape.
Despite its beauty, Taal Volcano can be dangerous. In January 2020, the volcano erupted, spewing ash and lava into the surrounding areas and prompting mass evacuations. The eruption caused widespread damage and displacement, reminding everyone of the power and unpredictability of this natural wonder.
Nevertheless, Taal Volcano remains a popular tourist attraction in Batangas, offering visitors the chance to witness the raw power of nature up close. While it’s important to exercise caution and stay aware of any potential volcanic activity, a visit to Taal Volcano is an unforgettable experience and a reminder of the incredible forces that shape our world.
Batangas Churches: A Testament to Faith, Heritage, and History
Batangas is also rich in history and culture, with several museums and historic sites to explore. The San Sebastian Cathedral and the San Antonio de Padua Church in Lipa are two examples of Baroque-style churches that showcase the province’s architectural heritage. The Batangas Provincial Museum and the Museo ni Miguel Malvar are two museums that display the province’s history and culture.
San Sebastian Cathedral is dedicated to Saint Sebastian, the patron saint of the city and is considered one of the most beautiful and well-preserved examples of Spanish colonial architecture in the region. The church was built in 1779 and has undergone several renovations and restorations over the centuries. It features a striking Baroque-style façade with intricate carvings and decorations, as well as a grand bell tower that dominates the city’s skyline. The interior of the church is equally impressive, with ornate altars, painted ceilings, and beautiful stained glass windows.
The San Sebastian Cathedral is not only a place of worship but also a cultural and historical landmark in Batangas. It has witnessed many significant events in the city’s history, including the Philippine Revolution against Spanish colonization and the subsequent American occupation. The church has also played a role in the development of the Catholic faith in the region and has been the site of many important religious celebrations and events.
Today, the San Sebastian Cathedral continues to draw visitors from all over the world who come to admire its beauty and learn about its history and significance. It remains an important part of the cultural and religious landscape of Batangas and a testament to the enduring legacy of Spanish colonial architecture in the Philippines.
San Antonio de Padua Church is one of the oldest churches in the region, built in the late 1700s during the Spanish colonial period. The church is named after Saint Anthony of Padua, a popular saint in the Catholic Church known for his miracles and devotion to the poor. It features a unique architecture that combines elements of Baroque and neoclassical styles, with ornate carvings and decorations on the façade and a grand bell tower that stands over 100 feet tall.
The interior of the San Antonio de Padua Church is equally impressive, with beautiful stained glass windows, painted ceilings, and intricate wood carvings. The church also houses a number of valuable artifacts, including a centuries-old image of the Virgin Mary and a wooden cross that is said to have survived a fire that destroyed the church in the 19th century.
The San Antonio de Padua Church is not only a place of worship but also a cultural and historical landmark in Batangas. It has been the site of many significant events in the city’s history, including the Philippine Revolution and the Battle of Lipa during World War II.
Today, the San Antonio de Padua Church continues to attract visitors from all over the world who come to admire its beauty and learn about its rich history and cultural significance. It remains an important part of the religious and cultural landscape of Batangas and a testament to the enduring legacy of Spanish colonial architecture in the Philippines.
The Taal Church, also known as the Basilica of St. Martin de Tours, is a historic church located in the town of Taal, Batangas, Philippines. It is considered as one of the largest and most beautiful churches in Asia, known for its unique Baroque-inspired architecture and rich cultural heritage.
The Taal Church features a grand façade with intricate carvings and sculptures, as well as a stunning interior with ornate details, colorful frescoes, and a magnificent altar. The church also houses a collection of valuable religious artifacts, including centuries-old icons and images.
As a testament to its cultural and historical significance, the Taal Church was declared a National Cultural Treasure by the Philippine government in 1993. It continues to attract visitors from all over the world who come to admire its beauty and learn about its rich history and cultural importance.
The Taal Church is not only a place of worship but also a cultural and historical landmark in Batangas. It serves as a reminder of the enduring legacy of Spanish colonial architecture in the Philippines and the important role of religion in shaping the country’s culture and identity.
Discover the Treasures of Batangas: Museums that Bring History and Culture to Life
The Museo ni Miguel Malvar is a museum dedicated to the life and legacy of Miguel Malvar, a Filipino general who played a significant role in the Philippine Revolution and the Philippine-American War. The museum is located in Santo Tomas, Batangas, Philippines, which is also the birthplace of Malvar.
It also eatures a collection of artifacts, photographs, and documents related to Malvar’s life and military career. The museum also includes exhibits on the history of Batangas during the late 19th and early 20th centuries, providing visitors with a glimpse into the social, cultural, and political context of Malvar’s time.
One of the highlights of the museum is the replica of Malvar’s bedroom, which gives visitors a glimpse into the personal life of this influential figure. The museum also features a library with books and materials related to the Philippine Revolution and the Philippine-American War.
The Museo ni Miguel Malvar serves as an important educational and cultural institution in Batangas, promoting the study and appreciation of the province’s rich history and cultural heritage. It is a must-visit destination for history buffs and anyone interested in learning more about the life and legacy of one of the Philippines’ most important historical figures.
The Batangas Provincial Museum is a cultural institution located in Batangas City, Philippines. It was established in 1997 and is dedicated to preserving and promoting the history, culture, and natural resources of the province.
The museum features a collection of artifacts, artworks, and documents that represent the rich cultural heritage of Batangas. The exhibits include prehistoric artifacts, archaeological finds, traditional costumes, musical instruments, and historical documents, among others.
One of the museum’s highlights is the Gallery of the Batangan Heritage, which showcases the province’s prehistoric past, colonial period, and contemporary history. The exhibit features dioramas, photographs, and multimedia presentations that provide visitors with an immersive and interactive learning experience.
The museum also has a natural history section that features the diverse flora and fauna of Batangas, including preserved specimens of plants and animals found in the province.
Apolinario Mabini Museum located in Tanauan City, this museum is dedicated to the life and works of Apolinario Mabini, a Filipino revolutionary leader and statesman who played a key role in the Philippine Revolution and the Philippine-American War.
Casa de Segunda is a heritage house in Lipa City was once the home of Segunda Solis Katigbak, the first love of Philippine national hero Jose Rizal. The house has been preserved as a museum, showcasing the life and times of the Katigbak family during the late 19th century.
Here are more list of museums can be found in Batangas:
Museo ng Taal – Located in the town center, this museum showcases the rich cultural heritage and history of Taal. The exhibits feature various collections of religious artifacts, antique furniture, and traditional costumes, among others.
Marcela Agoncillo Museum and Monument – This museum is dedicated to Marcela Agoncillo, a seamstress who helped sew the first Philippine flag. The museum houses a collection of Agoncillo’s personal belongings and showcases her contributions to Philippine history.
Gregorio Agoncillo Mansion – This heritage house was built in the 19th century and is considered as one of the most impressive examples of bahay na bato architecture in the region. It has been converted into a museum that showcases the lifestyle and traditions of the Agoncillo family during the Spanish colonial period.
Villavicencio Wedding Gift House – This heritage house is known for its intricate wood carvings and is a popular tourist destination. The museum features exhibits on the lifestyle and culture of the wealthy families during the Spanish colonial period.
Discover the paradise within reach – Batangas Beaches, where the sun, sea, and sand come together for an unforgettable experience
Batangas, a province located in the Calabarzon region of the Philippines, is known for its beautiful beaches. With its long coastline and clear waters, it’s a popular destination for locals and tourists alike who are seeking a beach getaway.
One of the most popular beaches in Batangas is Nasugbu Beach. Located in Nasugbu, this beach offers crystal clear waters and fine white sand. It’s a great spot for swimming, snorkeling, and other water activities. The beach is also surrounded by lush green mountains, adding to the natural beauty of the area.
Another famous beach in Batangas is Laiya Beach, located in San Juan. This long stretch of white sand beach is a popular destination for tourists who are looking for a relaxing beach getaway. It’s an ideal place to unwind and enjoy the beautiful scenery, with plenty of resorts and accommodations nearby.
Matabungkay Beach in Lian, Batangas is also a must-visit destination. This beach is known for its shallow waters and fine sand, making it a great spot for swimming and other water activities. It’s also a popular place to enjoy a sunset and take beautiful photos.
For those who love scuba diving and snorkeling, Anilao Beach in Mabini, Batangas is a great choice. This beach is famous for its diverse marine life and clear waters. It’s a paradise for underwater photography enthusiasts, with colorful coral reefs and a variety of fish species.
Last but not least, Calatagan Beach in Calatagan, Batangas is another beautiful beach that’s worth visiting. The beach is known for its clear waters and fine sand, making it a popular spot for swimming, snorkeling, and other water activities. The area is also home to beautiful mangrove forests and marine sanctuaries.
Overall, Batangas is a province that offers a wide range of beautiful beaches for everyone to enjoy. Each beach has its own unique beauty and attractions, making it a perfect destination for a beach vacation. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing getaway or an adventurous one, Batangas has everything you need for an unforgettable experience.
Batangas Cuisine: A Flavorful Journey Through the Heart of Filipino Culture
Batangas cuisine is known for its distinct flavors and unique dishes that reflect the province’s rich cultural heritage and natural resources. Here are some of the most popular Batangas dishes:
Lomi – This is a noodle soup dish made with thick egg noodles and a variety of meats such as pork, chicken, or seafood, and vegetables such as cabbage and carrots. It is served hot and topped with fried garlic and sliced egg.
Bulalo – This is a beef soup made with beef shank and bone marrow, corn on the cob, and vegetables such as onions, cabbage, and pechay. It is best served hot and is a perfect comfort food during cold weather.
Adobo sa Dilaw – This is a unique version of the popular Filipino dish adobo, but instead of using soy sauce and vinegar, it uses turmeric and coconut milk. The combination of spices and flavors creates a unique and delicious taste.
Kalderetang Kambing – This is a goat meat stew that is cooked with tomato sauce, potatoes, bell peppers, and carrots. It is best served hot and is a popular dish during special occasions.
Sinaing na Tulingan – This is a slow-cooked fish dish made with tulingan (mackerel tuna), salt, garlic, and vinegar. The fish is cooked in a clay pot over a low fire, resulting in a tender and flavorful dish.
Kapeng Barako – This is a type of coffee that is grown in Batangas and is known for its strong and bold flavor. It is usually brewed using a traditional drip method and is best enjoyed with some local pastries such as ensaymada or hopia.
These are just some of the many delicious dishes and drinks that Batangas has to offer. With its unique blend of flavors and ingredients, Batangas cuisine is definitely worth trying for any food enthusiast.
Salitang Batangenyo, Tatak ng Maunlad na Kultura at Kasaysayan (Batangenyo language, a mark of progressive culture and history)
The Batangas dialect, also known as Batangas Tagalog or Batangenyo, is a variant of the Tagalog language spoken primarily in the province of Batangas in the Philippines. It is known for its unique intonation and pronunciation, which is influenced by the province’s geographic location and history.
Some notable features of the Batangas dialect include the use of the suffix “-ga” or “-ngga” in place of the standard “-ng” in Tagalog, as well as the use of the words “adre” and “adre ko” as a way of addressing someone respectfully, similar to the use of “po” and “opo” in other parts of the Philippines. Additionally, the Batangas dialect includes some unique vocabulary and expressions that are not commonly used in other dialects of Tagalog.
Despite its distinct characteristics, the Batangas dialect remains a vital part of the larger Tagalog language, and it continues to be spoken and appreciated by the people of Batangas and beyond.
To fully experience the Batangas dialect, check out the YouTube video which offers an audio immersion into the unique and distinct Batangueno language:
Proverbs 21:1 says, "The king's heart is in the hand of the LORD, as the rivers of water: he turneth it whithersoever he will."
This verse speaks to the sovereignty of God and his ability to guide the hearts of those in positions of authority.
As I reflect on this verse, I am reminded of the importance of prayer and trust in God’s plan. Whether we are in positions of leadership or not, we all have the ability to influence others through our words and actions. However, it is ultimately God who is in control and who has the power to direct the course of our lives.
This verse also reminds me of the importance of humility and surrender. It is easy to become arrogant and self-reliant when we achieve success or hold positions of power. However, as this verse suggests, even the most powerful individuals are ultimately subject to the will of God. It is important to acknowledge our dependence on God and to seek his guidance and wisdom in all that we do.
Overall, Proverbs 21:1 is a powerful reminder of the sovereignty of God and the importance of humility and trust in his plan. It inspires me to seek God’s guidance in all aspects of my life and to trust that he has the power to direct my path and the paths of those in positions of authority.
If you’re a seafood lover in Metro Manila, you’re in luck! There are plenty of restaurants that offer delectable seafood buffets that will satisfy your cravings. Here are seven top picks that you should definitely try:
Vikings – With several branches across the metro, Vikings is one of the most popular buffet destinations for seafood lovers. Their extensive spread of fresh seafood includes shrimps, crabs, oysters, and more.
The Manila Hotel – The Manila Hotel’s Café Ilang-Ilang serves an impressive seafood spread that features lobsters, prawns, and a variety of fishes.
Dampa Seafood Grill – If you’re looking for a more laid-back and casual dining experience, head over to Dampa Seafood Grill. Here, you get to choose your own fresh seafood and have it cooked just the way you like it.
Four Seasons Buffet & Hotpot – This restaurant offers a unique dining experience where you can cook your own seafood hotpot with a wide selection of ingredients to choose from.
Heat at Edsa Shangri-La Manila – Heat’s seafood buffet features a wide array of fresh seafood, including salmon, mussels, clams, and more.
Buffet 101 – Known for their wide variety of dishes, Buffet 101 also has an impressive seafood spread that includes scallops, crabs, and prawns.
Spiral at Sofitel Philippine Plaza Manila – Considered one of the best buffet restaurants in the country, Spiral offers a luxurious dining experience with a seafood selection that includes lobsters, oysters, and crabs.
There you have it – seafood buffet restaurants that are definitely worth a visit in Metro Manila. Make sure to come hungry, and enjoy the mouthwatering selection of fresh seafood!
“The Magician’s Elephant” is a beautiful and heartwarming story that has been adapted into a film from Kate DiCamillo’s novel of the same name. The film tells the story of a young orphan boy named Peter, who is searching for his lost sister, and a magician named LaVaughn who promises to help him in his quest.
One of the most notable aspects of the film is its beautiful animation and visual effects. The film creates a magical and whimsical world that is full of wonder and charm, which makes it easy to become engrossed in the story.
The film’s narrative is also quite compelling, as it follows Peter’s journey to find his lost sister and the various characters he meets along the way. The characters are well-developed, and the audience is able to empathize with their struggles and emotions. The film also touches on themes of hope, redemption, and the power of love, which are timeless and universal.
The film’s soundtrack is another standout feature, as it perfectly complements the visuals and the emotions of the story. The music is hauntingly beautiful and evokes a sense of nostalgia and longing, which adds to the overall atmosphere of the film.
Overall, “The Magician’s Elephant” is a touching and memorable film that will resonate with audiences of all ages. It is a beautiful example of storytelling that reminds us of the importance of love, hope, and the power of imagination.
“The Last of Us” is a critically acclaimed video game developed by Naughty Dog, which has now been adapted into a television series. The series, which premiered on HBO in 2021, follows the story of Joel, a smuggler who is tasked with escorting Ellie, a young girl who may hold the key to a cure for a deadly virus that has devastated the world.
Here are some takeaways from “The Last of Us” series:
Survival: The series highlights the importance of survival in a post-apocalyptic world. It shows the lengths to which people will go to stay alive and protect themselves and their loved ones.
Relationships: The series focuses on the bond that develops between Joel and Ellie as they navigate their way through a dangerous and uncertain world. It highlights the importance of relationships and human connections, even in the most trying of circumstances.
Morality: “The Last of Us” series raises questions about morality and the choices people make when faced with difficult situations. It forces viewers to consider what they would do in similar situations and whether they would be willing to make the same choices as the characters in the series.
Hope: Despite the bleakness of the world depicted in the series, there are moments of hope and humanity. The characters demonstrate resilience and determination in the face of adversity, and viewers are left with the sense that even in the darkest of times, there is still the possibility for redemption and a better future.
Overall, “The Last of Us” series is a powerful and thought-provoking exploration of the human experience in the face of extreme circumstances. It is a testament to the resilience of the human spirit and the enduring power of hope.
It can be a difficult and painful experience to feel like you can’t trust your own family. Trust is an essential element of any healthy relationship, and when it’s missing, it can create a sense of unease, fear, and uncertainty.
There could be several reasons why you feel this way, such as past experiences of betrayal, a lack of communication or support, or perhaps feeling like you don’t fit in with your family’s values or beliefs. Whatever the reason, it’s important to acknowledge and validate your feelings and seek support from trusted friends, a therapist, or other trusted individuals.
While it may be challenging to address the issue directly with your family, setting boundaries and practicing self-care can help you navigate the situation in a healthy way.
Sa mga natatakot daw makipagrelasyon, kase maraming nababalitaan na break ups, mishaps. At sa mga nasa relasyon na pero di parin matahimik kaka-overthink. Hindi tunay na matututo ka sa experience ng iba. Been there, and still here. May leksyon at experience na para sayo lang. Wag kang umangkin ng sa iba.
Look for worsts! Kase madali lang naman mabuhay kasama ang magagandang bagay/ugali. Sabi nga sa nabasa ko, ‘life’s full of shts, choose a bearable one, yung sht na nga, pero mag eenjoy ka’. (Hindi martyrdom ha. That’s a whole different thing, bruh)
Kami ng husband ko, nagtatalo talaga ang isip ko noon kung magpapakasal na o saka na. Pero may sinabi sya at nakita ako na perfect indications na ready na sya at committed na makipagtulungan habangbuhay. Kung ano yon, sakin nalang yon magset ka ng sayo.
I-work on nalang yung mga flaws. In case na nagkamali, dapat paglipunan agad. Hahanda ka nga lamang kase ang pagkakamaling tinutukoy ko ay mauulit hindi lang sasampung beses, kundi sa buong duration ng pagsasama. At ang i-motto lagi, lalo na sa mga babaeng sigalputin, “kapag lumabas/umalis/nakipagbreak ka dahil lang sa pag aaway, WAG KA NANG BABALIK.” Yun e para mapressure ang utak mo na magconsider at magmuni muni. Hindi pedeng isasabuhay mo nalang ang, “sorry nagawa/nasabi ko lang kase galit…”
Ang relasyon ay dapat isang malakas na motivation para gumawa ng teamwork na mas ayusin pa ang sarili at patience na magstay habang unti-unting wino-work on ang mga flaws. Kung ang isang relasyon o isang taong gine-get to know mo ay hindi ganung nakaka inspired para maging mabuti kang tao o kahit maging totoo ka manlang sa sarili mo, it’s a red flag. Kase kung ganun, araw-araw ka lang din magpapanggap na ito ka o ganto gusto mo. Hanggang sa maging routine nalang ang lahat.
Kapag feeling mo naman di mo deserve ang mga masasama at umaasa ka nalang na babaguhin (dapat) ng tao ang sarili nya dahil ‘mahal’ ka kuno, edi go. May mga tao talagang over-pricing, at di sila masisisi. Sa huli, mas ok nang komportable ka kesa magbaka sakali at matuto sa mga hassle.
Of the many Filipino desserts that have graced tables at family reunions and Christmas parties, Leche Flan is one of the most popular and most loved. In fact, it even ranks first on my list of favorites.
Flan is a custard dessert known for its milky, sweet taste and the spongey, gelatin-like texture. It is made with milk, eggs, and a whole lot of sugar. Flan is popular in places with Spanish, Hispanic, and Latino origins, which makes it no surprise to find its popularity here in Filipino cuisine. Almost like panna cotta or the Dutch vla, Leche Flan’s smooth consistency makes for an altogether satisfying bite.
Flan is a creamy custard dessert. With its trademark caramel coating, it is a sweet and decadent dish everyone can enjoy. You can cook flan in many different ways, be it the traditional method of steaming or even baking it in the oven.
And if you don’t have an oven? That’s not a problem either! This easy leche flan recipe doesn’t require any baking time in the oven. That being said, it will still come out just as deliciously.
There are two important parts to making a Flan recipe. Before we make a good and consistent flan, we have to make a good, sticky sweet caramel sauce.
To accomplish the first component of the dish, we start with two ingredients: sugar and water. Put 8 tablespoons of granulated white sugar in a saucepan, setting it to a medium heat. Adding water according to how thick you want your flan to be. The more water you put into your mixture, the less viscous your caramel becomes. For this recipe I use 2 ½ tablespoons.
Cooking and stirring your caramel requires a lot of attention, because you don’t want your sugar to burn! Keep stirring until the mixture is at your desired thickness, and the color is a gorgeous medium brown. And there you have it: your caramel is ready!
Pour your caramel into the molds or pans you’re using to shape your flan; whether it’s glass, metal, or ceramic, any work as long as you’re able to get your desired shape. Ramekins are also a good idea. Make sure to evenly spread your caramel across the surface of your mold by tilting it every so often. Once it’s ready set it aside.
Now that you have one main component of your leche flan, it’s time to take the other: the flan itself! Start this by beating cracking 2 eggs into a bowl and beating them with a wire whisk; if you want to use an electric whisk, that is also doable. You can also use a fork, but that might take extra time. As you’re beating the eggs, add in your 6 tablespoons of sugar as well. The eggs’ texture has to be completely smooth and lumpless; once you have achieved that, set it aside and prepare the rest of the needed ingredients.
Microwave ¼ cup of water for about 35 seconds in a separate bowl. In this water we’re going to put our ½ ounce of unflavored (and also uncolored) gelatin powder. Whisk it well until the powder dissolves, and also set it aside.
Put a saucepan on medium heat and pour in your 1 ¼ cups of evaporated milk. We want the milk to simmer, not boil, so don’t put too much heat on the stove. While this is happening, we begin a process called tempering. Scoop around 5 to 6 tablespoons of the milk a tablespoon at a time. Otherwise, the egg might end up being cooked and hardened! Pour it into our egg and sugar mixture, stirring it well and thoroughly. When two ingredients at different temperatures are combined at a slow pace, the component with the lower temperature slowly rises to meet the other’s.
Once you have mixed the egg, sugar, and spoonfuls of milk well enough, return that mixture back into the saucepan (slowly, carefully!) with the remaining milk. Whisk it together and blend it well. As you’re whisking, gradually add the gelatin mixture you had made to the saucepan; lower the heat on your stove and let that mixture sit for 1 minute, while also ensuring that it doesn’t boil.
Transfer that mixture back into your bowl. Add your 7.6 ounces of all purpose cream or table cream and your 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract. This makes the dish more fragrant. The sweet smell of leche flan is always impossible to resist! Adding the all purpose cream last helps cool down the mixture’s already hot temperature. You can also reduce the bubbles in the mixture by skimming.
When you have mixed together the last of the ingredients, it’s time to scoop your mixture and pour it into your caramel molds. The only step left would be to solidify it; to do that, cover your molds with aluminum foil or plastic wrap and refrigerate overnight.
Come next morning, your leche flan will have solidified, and is ready to become the perfect treat for you and the rest of your family. Share and enjoy!
The Anxious Panda Writes 