Challenge # 25 : Start a New Blog

Yes, I have started a new blog! In fact, I started two. Be on the lookout this week for my first posts. Join me in this new journey. It's going to be a MEMORABLE one.

For those of you who followed my blog this month, thank you very much for all your encouragement. I couldn't have done it without your support. It has definitely been a very fantastic month.

Challenge # 24: Rekindle an Old Friendship

Stephen King wrote in his book, "The Body," that "friends come and go like busboys in a restaurant." The fact is, not all friends are lifelong friends. You can always cherish the friendship, but a lifelong friendship takes a lot more work from both parties. Time and distance are factors which could also greatly affect the longevity of a friendship. But, the best of friendships will always last a lifetime. The latter is the story of my friendship with Suzanne Imholz-Heiniger.

As I mentioned in my previous post, Suzanne and I were colleagues at the Mayfair Regent Hotel in Chicago from 1988 to 1990. She was fulfilling her 18-month hotel internship from Switzerland. I was a future hotelier working the early shift curling butter at the hotel French restaurant. She attended one of the best hotel schools in the world. She also spoke five languages fluently. She was definitely on her way to a very successful hotel career. I had no idea what I wanted to do. But our common interests in food, wine and travel, sealed our friendship from day one.

Tuesday night was our night. For one year, we discovered every facet of the Chicago dining scene -from the hottest dive joints to the most coveted seats in fine dining. Friends would join us occasionally, but for most part, it was our night. Tuesday with each other took precedent over boyfriends and girlfriends. Despite our closeness, we were never an item. I don't know how this whole thing evolved, but it did.

We were usually one of the last tables in a restaurant. We also frequented The Third Coast coffee shop near the hotel for cappuccino's and their famous nicoise salad. I taught Suzanne how to shoot pool like a shark and drink shots to "Great Balls of Fire." By the time she went back to Switzerland, she was as American as American can be.

Despite our valiant efforts to stay in touch, the distance between Chicago and Zurich was just hard to overcome. She went on to start her own marketing firm after years in the hotel industry. I got married, had kids and flourished in my career.

But as fate would have it, our paths would cross again after seven years apart. My job would take me to Zurich, and without any hesitation, I called Suzanne and made arrangements to get together. I waited outside my hotel for Suzanne to pick me up. Nervous as hell, perhaps from the idea of being disappointed that the once old friendship may have faded, I sweated in anticipation. A swanky girl in a neatly pressed white shirt pulled up in a BMW convertible, and after exchanging glances, we both just laughed, knowing that the bond was definitely still there. I snapped the picture above after giving Suzanne a hard time for her sexy car - which happens to be my dream car, too. She took me to a very hip restaurant and then to a very cool dance club. The red wines and smokes were flowing. We were definitely back in Chicago.

We stayed in close contact after that rendezvous. My wife and I made her our youngest daughter's godmother. She visited us in Paris twice when we were visiting my Mom. We attended her wedding in Spain. She and her husband, Urs, met up with us in Chicago. A year or so after their wedding, Suzanne gave birth to a beautiful baby girl, Laura Carlotta. Health complications afflicted Laura Carlotta's early years, and as expected, we somehow lost touch for a couple of years. I could have tried harder to stay in touch during this difficult period for my friend, but I didn't.

So soon after I posted my first "Month of Living Challenge" post on "Finishing a Half Read Book," I received a note from my dear friend, Suzanne. And just like that, we're back on track again. Laura Carlotta is doing very well. They recently moved in into their new home outside of Zurich. The family is doing just fine.

And yes, our friendship is as good as friendships can be. This time, though, the busboy is wondering if we are ever going to leave.

Suzanne in Chicago

Suzanne, Urs and Laura Carlotta

Elena and Suzanne in Spain

I took this photo of Suzanne on our last Tuesday Night Dinner in Chicago in 1990.

Tim Irving Photography Giveaway!

Happy Monday everyone! I'm thrilled to announce that the amazingly talented photographer, Tim Irving, has offered to give two Paris Hotel Boutique Journal readers one of his lovely photographs. His beautiful work has been published in The London Times & Time Magazine.

Tim lives and works in the Andalucia region of Spain and also authors a blog by the name of Style Med. It focuses on Mediterranean design and lifestyle. I just adore his work and have blogged about it before.

HOW TO ENTER

• Check out Tim Irving's Etsy shop here, and leave a comment below telling us which photo you would like to receive if you're the lucky winner! There are over 100 images to choose from and they are printed on deep gloss archival paper of museum quality.
• Anyone can enter -- International readers are more than welcome!
  
• 2 winners will be chosen via Random.Org
  
• Winners will be selected on Monday, September 7th at 9:00 pm PST and announced on Tuesday's post.
• Please make sure and include your blog link or email me your contact info so that I can contact you after the giveaway.

THANK YOU & GOOD LUCK!!

Challenge # 23 : Attend a Black Baptist Church Service

Let me tell you something, you haven't lived until you've attended a church service at a predominantly black church. The music, the energy, the preacher, and the friendliness of the congregation were a phenomenal sight. The more than two hours flew by faster than you can do the sign of the cross at a Catholic mass. Believe it or not, this non-church going Catholic actually felt good about going. Just like a great book, the movie depictions about gospel churches does not compare to the real experience.

The Messiah Missionary Baptist Church is the oldest black baptist church in the area - opening its doors in 1890. It is located on the intersection of Henry and James St. in the SE side of downtown Grand Rapids. My friend, Tony Campbell, is one of the preachers of the church. He invited me to check the church out, though he was not present this morning since he was preaching at another church.

Female greeters in red jackets opened the doors for me. An usher wearing a black suit and white gloves shook my hands upon entering and actually had the decency to fix my collar which was not tucked in neatly inside my jacket. As expected, I was the only Asian in the church, though to my surprise, there were several caucasian parishioners and visitors. There was one white male who was part of the church staff - helping out with the reading and the blessing of those who accepted the Lord towards the end of the service.

The forty or so all-female choir in full white garb rocked the house with each song. I enjoyed watching one of the heavy-set choir leaders really get down like a dancer for Janet Jackson.  In between the songs, half of the choir fanned themselves with the church program as if they were gasping for every inch of air inside the church. Ushers also handed out cardboard fans with advertisements to the rest of the congregations. Pretty soon, about a fourth of the congregations were fanning themselves. The AC was working just fine, but it must be a habit from their pre-AC days. This reminded me of a typical scene inside any church in my tropical country.

The music accompaniment was loud like a concert in the arena. Guests, including me, were asked to stand to be welcomed by the congregation. Birthday celebrants were also asked to stand as the choir sang their rendition of a gospel "happy birthday." Young girls in black outfits performed a beautiful liturgical dance for the church.

Midway through the service, the Reverend Clifton Rhodes, Jr., shared with the congregation that there were several members of the church who have asked for assistance for school supplies for the upcoming school year.  A deacon pulled five names out of a decorated box, and as each names is called, the Reverend handed them a $200 gift. One lady cried so hard after hearing her name that the a few parishioners had to help her regain her composure. The Reverend explained that a local businessman, Mr. Roosevelt Tillman, donated the money for the school supplies and matched this gesture with three other churches in the area. To top it off, Mr. Tillman handed the Reverend a check for an additional $2,000 after the 8:00 AM church service earlier this morning. Wow!

Then, the sermon came. The Reverend read a short passage from James 3:13-18. But don't be deceived by the length of the scripture, because for the next hour, the Reverend Rhodes eloquently took us on an oratorical journey full of thunderous emotion and smart humor. It was awesome!

Challenge # 22: Make Pho from Scratch

A Bowl of Delicious Homemade Pho

The hardest thing about pho (fuh) is the pronunciation. Most Americans pronounce it "foh" or simply call it Vietnamese soup. It's relatively an easy soup to make except it takes time. Most pho uses a beef stock, but for my pho, I made it with chicken stock since my wife prefers the chicken soup over the beef.

It took me about four hours from start to finish. Let me tell you though, it is one pho you'll always remember. Enjoy.

Easy Pho

Ingredients for Broth:

8 to 10 Cups of Chicken Stock

2 Cinnamon Sticks

2 Whole Cloves

2 Star Anise

1/2 Cup Ginger

1 Medium Onion

Ingredients for the pho:

1/2 pound of banh pho (rice noodles)

2 Tablespoons Fish Sauce

1 Teaspoon Sugar

3 Cups bean Sprouts

1 Cup Green Onions

1 Cup Thai Basil, Cilantro or Mint

1/4 Cup Freshly Squeezed Lime Juice, Key Lime or Calamansi

2 Jalapenos or Thai Red Chiles Cut Diagonally

Cooked Shredded Chciken (from stock)

First, make your basic chicken stock using a whole chicken with thyme, celery, carrots, onions, bay leaves, salt and pepper. Strain.

Make the broth by boiling the stock with cinnamon, cloves, star anise. In the meantime, char the onions and ginger. Add the charred onions and ginger to the broth. Cook on low-medium heat for 1 1/2 to 2 hours. Strain.

When ready to serve, heat the broth and add the fish sauce, sugar, salt to taste. Arrange bowls for your guests and portion the noodles, chicken, jalapeno, cilantro, sprouts, green onions, fresh limes. Top with the broth.

Challenge # 21 : Find Meaning in Volunteering

Inspired by the movie, Pay It Forward, East Grand Rapids interior designer, Margaux Drake, gave birth to The Giving Gardens - a non profit organization dedicated to "planting it forward." The mission is quite simple: find donors, such as country clubs, to donate extra plants, shrubs and trees so Giving Gardens could replant the greenery where it is needed. Monetary donations are also gladly accepted. The Giving Gardens has helped Habitat for Humanity homes to city parks for children getting treatment in hospitals.

I was quite flattered when The Giving Gardens requested that I volunteer my time by photographing one of its projects for the organization's website. I never realized that my hobby as a photographer for my blog would serve a need in the community. I learned that volunteering comes in many forms. Organizations have many needs and not all needs require physical work. Non-profit's need help with writing grants, designing websites, answering phones, and in my case, photographs for their website.

I hope that you find the time to visit the Giving Gardens website to find out how you might be able to assist in spreading the good word, or better yet, help with a future installation. Enjoy the sampling of photographs I took at Frog Hollow at the new Metro Health complex in Wyoming, Michigan.

HAPPY 100th BIRTHDAY BANNIE!!

I’m gushing over the fact that it’s my grandmother’s 100^th birthday today! She is the most special lady-- not just a “grandma,” but more like a mother to me.



When my cousin was an infant, she couldn't pronounce "Granny" and kept saying "Bannie." My grandmother thought it was cute, and the name "Bannie" was born.

my grandmother, siblings & parents

Born August 28, 1909 in San Francisco, the daughter of Romanian immigrants, Tillie has lived a humbled life of 100 years in the city of San Francisco. A century of stories she has to share. And, let me tell you, at 100, her mind is as sharp as a tack!

My grandparents at Stinson Beach in 1931. They were still courting.

She met my sweet grandfather Stanley in 1930 and got married in 1932. They were married for 66 years and my Papa passed away.

Tillie & Stanley Batt - Fairmont Hotel, San Francisco 1932

My grandparents were married at the Fairmont Hotel in San Francisco. From this photo it looks like they were from a wealthy family. Not so. Working class families. As my grandmother tells me, in those days things were not as expensive and they saved and saved for special occasions.

Giving. Generous. Sweet. Outgoing. Curious. Selfless. Wise. Bannie has the spirit of a young person. She is excitable and the smallest of things make her happy. If I've inherited just a portion of the qualities she has, I'm grateful.

So today marks 100 for Bannie...a Centurion! This cake above makes me think of Bannie. Fit for a queen!

Tomorrow we will be having a party at her house with family & friends. I can hardly wait! We've been decorating up a storm!

Thank you Bannie for giving me all you had to give. Driving me home from school every day. Attending every single dance recital or concert I was in. Letting me torture you on vacations by dragging you out for hot fudge sundaes when you really didn't want to leave the motel. Letting me bring my laundry over in garbage bags and you having it all ready-- hanged and perfectly pressed!

Bannie, I LOVE YOU & HAPPY HAPPY BIRTHDAY!

Challenge # 20 : Meet a Rock Star!

With Journey's Lead Singer, Arnel Pineda

I will be the first to admit that I don't usually get star struck nor do I make any special effort to meet celebrities whenever they are staying in the hotel. Their privacy is a top concern and I will make every effort so it remains that way. However, I have to admit that I made a special arrangements to meet President Obama when he was in the JW. I was this close to meeting Jennifer Aniston, but elected to steer clear since she and then boyfriend, John Mayer, were truly enjoying a private weekend in Grand Rapids. I played it low key even in Chicago (where celebrities lived in my hotel at the Mayfair Regent) or in the Caribbean (where we had Sports Illustrated conduct a swimsuit issue photo shoot). Unless they specifically ask for the GM, you wouldn't find me near the celebrity.

Now, meeting the lead singer of Journey is a different story. For you Journey purists out there, sure, Steve Perry is the original. But it is Arnel Pineda now. Prior to discovering Arnel Pineda on youtube, Journey was pretty much a club act. Having gone through two or three lead singers after Mr. Perry, they were on their last leg. Steve Perry was a one hit wonder as a single artist with, "Oh, Sherrie." The remaining members of the band asked Steve Perry to rejoin the group, but Steve said, "Oh, Perry - no more."

Arnel Pineda, a Filipino circuit club singer in Manila, filled the missing gap that Steve Perry left wide open. And fill it he did. For the first time since the band disbanded, the stadiums are humming again. The band's new album made it to platinum. Thanks to the brains behind the band and for the big voice of Arnel Pineda.

There was no question that I was going to the concert when the news came out in May. Proud of my Filipino heritage, I was not going to let this opportunity to meet and say thanks to a fellow countryman pass me by. I sent Arnel's suite some ice cold San Miguel beers and a personal welcome note to Grand Rapids. His agent called me the next morning and told me that Arnel really appreciates the attention, especially from fellow Filipinos. That was nice - but I want an invitation to meet him!

So as Heart started their set, and I have given up any hopes of meeting Arnel, my friend who invited us to the concert told us that he had made arrangements for Elena and I to meet Arnel and the band. You waited this long to tell me! We were whisked to the back stage, and standing in the green room was Arnel and the band.

The band manager introduced me to Arnel, and upon hearing my last name, he said, "Mr. Aquino...maraming salamat sa San Miguel (thank you for the San Miguel beer)." I was shocked that he remembered the name on the welcome card. He rubbed my shoulder a couple of times to show his appreciation for the token gift as pictures were taken. We talked some more in Filipino before he went on to meet other people in the room. As this was going on, I was quite impressed at how the rest of the band just gave Arnel the limelight. That was pretty neat, I thought.

To meet a rock star is one thing. But to meet a humble and very appreciative one makes it memorable and worth sharing. And yes, the fact that the rock star happens to be a Filipino, makes it more amazing for this Filipino hotel guy. Maraming salamat, Arnel!

Journey in Grand Rapids

The Encore

My wife and Arnel

My friend, Rich (in jacket) and I, presented Journey with a certificate for a donation in the band's name to the local Children's hospital.

Arnel rockin' to Don't Stop Believin'

This one is for all the Pinoy's!

Oh Frank, How Could You?

Did you hear about this? From Coterie's blog. Thanks Alyssa for sharing!

Quentin England Hotel: Reviews-hotel

Quentin England Hotel: Reviews-hotel
After his stay at the hotel for a difficult year, I know that the institutions are still quite spartan, woul meet our needs.
However, this study has been expanded to include the basic provisions supplments hotel soap and towels.
When we asked for a room, leaving the surprise of soap, our secretary, and I reference: "It will provide soap. It 'pretty amazing, most of us and we can not deny that all the stores d' be confused. Amsterdam coffee available.
Heller is not the towels that we seek, € 20.00 deposit must be enabled TV remote (this information has not been sold prior to our trip) and the main window and changing the order.
We also seek payment by credit card are subject to increase by 5% - again, I assure you that this information is not provided in advance ..
I do not want to make mistakes in this hotel again, I return to Amsterdam - I'm sure that we are much better treated in this room.
When we arrived in the rooms import double wardrobe two cups and two towels. The sheets are dirty dead flies llittered wall and the heat is the total force, we have the literallty room sweltered. Employees have a minimum of service and final day. We ask God Welcome to our car at the Marriott Hotel near the airport. He confirmed that he was reserved, after waiting over an hour, because it seems to take place. Marriott Benefit Plans t before ordering our car and real possibility. We installed our return flight. Do not go there again in the best position is a short tram ride from the center. Amsterdam.
We're back in Amsterdam in September. To learn more about this hotel and book on-line one months in advance. Later, when people pass comments and ratings for this hotel is a kind of disappointment that we dragged. But we decided to try it.
Overall the hotel is not as bad as being. Counter staff is friendly and speaks good English. We have our heavy suitcases. The people of our luggage counter on our first floor rooms - no elevator. The hotel is not dense and dark and dirty. Our staff also provides guidance for the movement of ships.
Peaceful. I highly recommend the hotel for first time visitors and those with families.
Warnings, but - not - get out now. Therefore, you must ensure that no change in iterinary. We lost two days after the deposit due to changes in our plans.
Ramesh K R, Vizag, India.

Best Resort Hotels of the World-hotel

Best Resort Hotels of the World-hotel

Vacation destination and not just to see if there is interest. We have to worry about accommodation at the end of the day. Good night sleep and prepare for another trip the next day. And he says the best accommodation we will provide a comfortable facilities to ensure that reservations can not afford.

Beaver Creek Lodge is a luxury hotel in the heart of Beaver Creek Village, and at the foot of Beaver Creek Mountain. Denver City and 130 miles to 120 miles to Denver International Airport is approx. The Eagle County Regional Airport for 2 hours by car.

This luxury hotel, with about 72 suites and Lodge Condominiums, heated outdoor pool and whirlpool, a free service, Beaver Creek Resort, spa and fitness center. 72 well-appointed suites with spacious dining room and living room includes king or double bed o. Each room, which consists of down spiked leather headboards, pillows and blankets, furs, art and unique mountain chic decor and luxurious bed capacity. Other characteristics of a 27-inch flat-screen TVs, hairdryers, speakers, slippers, clothes, and includes high-speed wireless Internet.

Arizona Inn Tucson is amazing Luxury Resort Central and heart Hometown Tucson, Arizona, grass, flowers, fountains and gardens, residents hectares spread over 14 years. This is a great apartment Old Tucson Studios, Sabino Canyon Tucson Studios 25 minutes by car and Reid can be contacted 10 minutes by car, even 30 minutes.

This Inn has 95 individually decorated rooms and suites, a free printer, a business center, wireless high speed internet, a vast library and a swimming pool. All rooms have refrigerators, large desk, coffee makers and DVD, 27 cable and telephone answering machine, blow dry, iron and ironing board and high speed internet-inch color TV.

Grand Velas All Suites and Spa Resort A resort hotel, and is a member of the best hotels in the world. This Resort Hotel Downtown Puerto Vallarta and 7 golf courses nearby. Plant and spa facilities and dry cleaning, beauty salon, business center and boutique properties, and spa services, diving courses Rent a car, an 'art and ceramic workshop Sitting Services.

In addition, 267 luxury suites, the Imperial Spa Suite, Presidential Suite, Ambassador Imperial Grand Suites, Parlor Suites and Master Suites. , A king or two queen beds, a flat screen TV, mini bar and complete control of air conditioning, dual telephone line, DVD, CD Each suite has a wonderful step Oceanfront views, bathroom with shower and private terrace jacuzzi are also MP3 players, coffee machines and Internet access at high speed.

Hotel Le Crystal is located near the Montreal Bell Center and the subway. This beautiful resort hotel a few miles from Old Montreal and the Museum of Fine Arts in Montreal, and 7 kilometers from the Olympic Stadium and the Montreal Biodome. This conference center, urban spa, sauna and reception rooms and large public swimming pool in the salt water-the-art gym equipment Life Fitness Center, the owner.

It is located about 131 pillows-west and west-allergic duvets and luxurious suites are furnished. All newspapers Suites, 27-32 inch LCD-TV, mini-bar completely Molton Brown toiletries and hair dryer, voice mail and high speed Internet access, multi-telephone lines equipped.

Discount Hotels in Quebec City-hotel

Discount Hotels in Quebec City-hotel
In Canada, where all the most popular in Quebec, because most people leave out, is located in the heart of the country. For the locals, is a small thing that we talk about here is mostly French. World's largest province in Canada and in two rooms of the administrative department. This is faster in Quebec. Despite the fact that still offer affordable housing. These prices are ideal for weekend visits and holidays.

We also offer several options for accommodation discounts Quebec. Quebec Hotel, prices are found in some of these options. Here are some.

Hotel Le Voyageur
Hotels in Quebec is known for a very competitive price. Such as discounts for hotel rooms help this campaign, to maintain most of the time. This is a three star hotel in the city will have two miles. Furthermore, only 10 km from the international Janrusaju. The streets and parks near Sainte Anne de Montmorency, with a waterfall. Center can be found easily. At least five minutes where you can get on the highway. In this case, the hope that their stay here is an old city of Quebec, and is a good thing, I like to detect and the environment.

60 double rooms and four suites new rooms have been renovated. Very comfortable and there is a fire retardant SUITES. These can accommodate eight people each. Banqueting hall, where weddings, meetings, may hold a first party and special events. Conference facilities are also available. Adjust, they may be willing to plan carefully.

All rooms are equipped with bathroom, minibar, radio alarm clock is. Smoking policy for a healthy environment we face.

Lounge is a good place in the house at night. The party is also useful, which serves cocktails. Activities such as parties, where you can during the day. Also has a restaurant that global warming is complete breakfast in the heart. You choose your breakfast menu, if you do not want this store can do.

Deizuinkebekkuuesuto
The hotel is smart, because you really need, given all the fat that you can offer accommodation at very affordable delete. This is recommended for budget travelers. They provide a shuttle service. More offers free coffee and fruit dessert (or breakfast with donuts).

For you for your business Deizuin offers a place of collection. Free Internet access to visual equipment installations have been completed. All rooms are non smoking. This is a total of 52 rooms. They guarantee a place in the hotels and tourists.

Other room amenities and facilities in a cradle, wood bed, alarm clock, radio, cable TV, for a great site. It also offers recreational activities. Have you visited amusement parks. Bowling Center, exercise groups, golf courses, museums, and options for good food. Go and see also Sailing can go to the movies and shopping.

This famous restaurant restaurants offer驶euner procedure. As one of the best food American mainland. Add a fun experience, with a great atmosphere to eat.

Remembering Dominick Dunne

Sadly, today best-selling author Dominick Dunne died of cancer. What a tremendous writer he was, famous for detailing crimes of the rich, famous, and infamous. You can read an early version of his New York Times obituary here, the memoriam from Vanity Fair here.

Fellow blogger Coterie, suggested a 2009 documentary entitled Dominick Dunne: After the Party- if you are a fan of his, it's a must see.

We will greatly miss this gifted writer.

Photograph by Mark Seliger for Vanity Fair

Vuitton or Goyard?

Goyard and Louis Vuitton totes

My friend Janet recently did a fun post about Louis Vuitton vs. Goyard. Both French design houses date to the mid-1800's.

La Maison Goyard began manufacturing in 1853, and was the artisan’s approach to the making of distinctive cases, trunks, luggage and handbags. Adhering to a traditional fabrication that remains unchanged to this day, all pieces are entirely hand-made in France.

Louis Vuitton began manufacturing in 1854, and was renowned for their trunks and luggage. Originally, the leather cases of Louis Vuitton were inlaid with the grey-colored canvas. In 1896, Georges, the son of Louis Vuitton, combined the initials of his father “L&V” with the flower pattern, designed the world renowned monogram canvas pattern. Entering into the 20th century, the company expanded in terms of locations and financial success.

Goyard’s unique hot stamping techniques enabled personalized monograms to be created, if desired, across a wide array of products and accessories.

In 1858, Monsieur Vuitton introduced his flat-bottom trunks with trianon canvas (they were lightweight and airtight)

I started buying LV in the 1980's. I was in my 20's and spent half of my paycheck to buy a bag, one at a time. Totally obsessed with LV for years. Then I discovered Goyard about 6 years ago and fell in love. I like the fact that you don't see many people wearing it. I do however still appreciate the vintage Louis Vuitton luggage/trunks.

My Goyard "Fidji" bag

Fact: Goyard is still a relatively small family-run company, only sold in France, its San Francisco shop, and Barney's New York. In some cases you have to wait as much as 3 months for the production of a specific style.

Fact: The Louis Vuitton Brand and the famous LV monogram are among the world's most valuable brands and are still hand made. It is the most heavily counterfeited brand in fashion history, with only 1% of all Louis Vuitton-branded items in circulation considered authentic.

FYI, I'm eyeballing this tote here. Love the colors of the stripes.

Okay, which French manufacturer do you prefer? Maybe both? Do you even like logo fashion? Do I appear biased?