HALO-HALO: THE ULTIMATE FILIPINO SUMMER DESSERT

Summertime is here, and almost everyone I know is talking about halo-halo—some even boasting about finding the best spot to enjoy it.

Halo-halo is a beloved Filipino dessert made with crushed ice or snow ice, layered with a medley of sweetened local fruits, and topped with rich ice cream and creamy leche flan. A generous drizzle of evaporated milk ties all the flavors together, making every spoonful a delightful experience.

Back in my adolescent years in the province, halo-halo stalls would pop up on almost every street corner during the summer. One year, my friends and I even tried our hand at selling it ourselves, hoping to make some extra money.

These days, if you have an ice crusher and access to fruit preserves, making halo-halo at home is easy. But isn’t it more fun to gather with friends in a cozy café and catch up over a tall, icy glass of this refreshing treat?

For me, monthly meet-ups with my sister wouldn’t be complete without stopping by our favorite spot for a delicious serving of halo-halo. 

Recently, I invited some friends to a well-known place in town that serves one of the best versions of this iconic dessert. We had a great time, and as always, halo-halo did exactly what it does best—keeping us cool while bringing us together.

BREAKFAST WITH THE WALK-NATICS

Breakfast with these walk-natics was an absolute blast!

It must have been raining since midnight, and it was still coming down when I woke up at 2:30. I thought for sure our walk would be canceled. But at 4:30, a message popped up on my iPad: Meet at 5.

It was still drizzling, but being the diehard walkers we are, we couldn’t miss a day. I quickly laced up my black New Balance sneakers and got ready.

Armed with umbrellas, we braved the drizzle, completing three rounds—and yet, none of us were ready to part ways. Just as we lingered, chatting in my garden, the drizzle finally stopped. What a perfect morning!

Feeling the moment, I invited them for breakfast. Luckily, I had made spinach dip the night before, and there was a fresh baguette. A quick pasta with garlic, anchovies, and Parmesan seemed like the perfect pairing. And since I had plenty of callos from last night’s cooking, I shared some, too.

It felt even more special knowing that Celine and Dolly are off to Japan next week. We’re going to miss our two regular walking buddies!

The morning was filled with laughter—especially with Dolly’s endless supply of hilarious stories. We simply couldn’t stop laughing!

Wishing Celine, Dolly, and their partners a wonderful trip and an exciting vacation. What’s even better? Joy has already prepared her home to welcome them. I have no doubt they’ll have an amazing time.

Safe travels and happy landings, Celine, Dolly, and partners

CONNECTING WITH NATURE

A Backyard Sanctuary

Summer is almost here! And when it’s summer, garden talk is relevant.

Our backyard is our breathing space—an unwinding corner of our home. It is a haven of possibilities that I keep editing, a living work of art where creativity has no limit while keeping the budget. 

A Space for Relaxation and Gatherings

It is our place for relaxation and entertaining family and friends, allowing us to embrace alfresco living. It welcomes both conversation and tranquility—a space where memories flourish and friendships are sealed. 

Creating a Cozy and Natural Ambiance

Every day, I try to make it more like a sanctuary of peace, arranging and rearranging plants to create a cozy environment for those who love a natural vibe. It’s a palette that is both vibrant and soothing.

Simplicity and Elegance in Design

Our garden celebrates simplicity, showcasing individual elements without clutter.

The terracotta tiles, elegant and timeless, mimic earthy textures, creating a grounded and calming atmosphere. 

The combination of white pebbles along the edges adds a tactile experience, enhancing the terracotta’s raw beauty—designed to be both ageless and timeless.

A Thoughtfully Arranged Landscape

The garden’s layout is simple, allowing plants to showcase their natural form with minimal upkeep.

One wall is fully covered with lush ivy, while another is gradually transforming as I encourage climbing vines to take over.

A mango tree offers cozy shade

Opposite stands a calamansi tree, carefully trimmed to encourage more fruit within easy reach.

A Timeless and Ever-Changing Retreat

The balance between simplicity and elegance makes this space a true sanctuary. The garden is ever-changing, yet its essence remains the same—a place of rest, beauty, and connection.