Scientific Chef Inside

©darrengarcia

©darrengarcia

Boredom induces food cravings. I can't help but to make new dishes. You just have to follow one simple rule. Mix edible stuff to produce an edible stuff. It doesn't matter if it tastes good or not as long as the stomach can take it.

The Smiling Bottlecap

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"Too many people overvalue what they are not and undervalue what they are." 

~Malcolm S. Forbes

The Marshmallow Test

  Walter Mischel’s marshmallow test is one of the best-known studies in the history of psychology. In the 1960s, Mischel, then a professor at Stanford, took nursery-school students, put them in a room one-by-one, and gave them a treat (they could choose a cookie, a pretzel stick, or a marshmallow) and the following deal: They could eat the treat right away, or wait 15 minutes until the experimenter returned. If they waited, they would get an extra treat.

 Tracking the kids over time, Mischel found that the ability to hold out in this seemingly trivial exercise had real and profound consequences. As they matured and became adults, the kids who had shown the ability to wait got better grades, were healthier, enjoyed greater professional success, and proved better at staying in relationships—even decades after they took the test. They were, in short, better at life.

(From businessweek.com)

From this experiment, we can see the true importance of enduring something petty in exchange for something much great.

Reasons Why I don't Drink

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People find it peculiar that I don't drink alcoholic beverages. They buzz me with questions on why I resist on even just taking a sip. They often wonder if my parents or religious beliefs has something to do with it. I tell them that no one or nothing holds me back. It's just my personal stand.

My parents don't openly restrict me. I can easily ask for their consent. I can even sneak anytime without them knowing if I want to. I just reserve respect for them, which is why I'll let them know if I will drink, but I doubt I will.

Secondly, nothing in the bible clearly constrains anyone not to drink alcohols. However, it does warn us not to be drunk. In essence, if I take just a sip I won't really be violating any of these Christian principles.

So why do I not drink or even dare to taste?

I JUST DON'T SEE ANY REASON WHY I SHOULD. No one has ever provided me a reasonable answer why they drink. In fact, the harms overwhelmingly outweighs the benefit.

First of all, I'm not yet 18. I abhor those who drink below the legal age. They are clearly violating the law. They are no different to thieves and killers. The distinction in offense only lies in the degree, but they are still the same. How could a country have hope when it's youth violates the law at an early stage?

They say it's for the sake of socializing with others. Some say it's for relaxation. Some even say that it gives this happy feeling. I just don't get these people. Why would they even resort to something that destroys their body when there are myriads of options available. 

I believe I can socialize, relax, and be happy without drinking. I go to places where these people stay and I've managed not to taste a drop of alcohol. I munch at food or drink other beverages like milk tea's instead. 

I don't condemn those who are already drinking. I believe that it's really inherently addictive. I just want to call out  those who are planning to. I strongly encourage you to think twice before you do it. Be logical and practical. 

For me, I just don't want to waste money and self-inflict agonizing diseases. I want to spend my money on worthwhile goods and direct my time and efforts to noteworthy activities instead.

It's just a simple reason with a strong logical basis.

       

Officially Ended

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We may be from different colleges, but we were bounded by one mission-- ACADEMIC EXCELLENCE. 

Of course I'm kidding. I just met them from one class. Nevertheless, they've been with me for my whole frosh year: cramming for exams, attending victory, hanging out, and many more. Last tuesday, we ended our freshman year by watching a movie. It was soo awesome and truly memorable. Hope they all turn out as productive citizens and pillars of the nation in the future...just like me.  

All Smiles

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To be happy is to smile, as to be sad is to frown smile. Indeed, one of the hardest things to do in times of trials is to smile. After all, aren't problems supposed to be problematic?

Sometimes, problems are just results of our own mistakes. This type can be characterized as "me, myself, and I" problem. This type of problems are easily discernable. You are completely aware that a problem is a product of your own fault, similar to a cause-effect logic. For example, you did not prepare for an exam; hence, you fail. Instantly, in these scenarios, you may feel dumb and useless.This kind of problem hurts, but is often justified by reasons. 

The second type of problem, scars a deeper level of hurting. It is the "what-the-heck" problem. These are those problems that spontaneously develop. You may not have done anything, or you may even did everything...but still the problem arises. This type is even harder to accept. You don't know who and what to blame in these times. Which is why most often, especially Christians, the problems are attributed to God. Questions of dismay are usually uttered: "Why did you let this happen?" or "Do you you even exist?".

Examples of these are death, sudden loss of job, and unfair failing marks. These "what-the-heck" problems, are even worsened when we discover that some people who are also supposed to be afflicted by the same suffering are happily walking by the street and enjoying their worry-free day. These problems are questionable and unjustifiable. 

But I tell you, this is the type of problems to anticipate for. This is the greatest test of faith. Just like a glass being subjected to intense heat and great pressure, it is necessary to shape, strengthen,and build one's character.

No matter what type of problem you are in right now. There is a guarantee that there is a way out. God has never promised a worry-free life, but He has promised security. 

You may not initially understand its purpose. But the rewards are priceless and eternal. Just smile, trust, and work. It's not all about suffering. Keep in mind the the law of sowing and reaping. The harder the problem is the greater the prize is.

"Dear brothers and sisters, when troubles come your way, consider it an opportunity for great joy. For you know that when your faith is tested, your endurance has a chance to grow. So let it grow, for when your endurance is fully developed, you will be perfect and complete, needing nothing."

 -James 1:2-4     

(A post dedicated to my v-group in metro-east)

Paper Over, Doper Breaker

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FINALLY DONE WITH MY LIBRARY RESEARCH PAPER. Watta relief. FREEEEDOOM!!!

Cheers to being a sophomore

©darrengarcia

This is a tribute post to my last week as a freshman. My last week was spent in cafe's studying, under the trees resting, and going to places like IRRI with friends. Last week was called "hell-week", everyday I had exams and I was pre-occupied every night so I had to do extra efforts to catch up with my lessons. 

Thank God I was able to surpass an exhausting week full of pressure and thrill. Most of all, I thank Him for always being with me throughout my first year of college life. From friends, finances, academics...I am not only satisfied, but I feel blessed for having all these things. 

 Things might not go as I expected, but His plans are better than mine for He transcends all understanding. Faith grounded on perseverance is all I need to show, the rest just follows. 

Marikina's Food Pride

Waknatoy
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Everlasting
©darrengarcia

 Waknatoy is similar to menudo, it just has this subtle difference which makes it more tasty. It's a pork stew with carrots and other spices. Everlasting, on other hand, is similar to meatloaf. It has peas, raisins, eggs, and meat mixed together. It can either be paired with pandesal or rice. These two are signature dishes of Marikina. My dad used to tell me that during their time they are served only in festive celebrations. Fortunately, in the modern era, these are now offered in restaurant menus. 

Sunday Breakfast

©darrengarcia

©darrengarcia

We went to white plains to visit another Pan de Americana branch. I have to say that the one in Marikina is better. The only thing that truly captured my attention is their upside-down work of art.

Continue Thy Legacy

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   After three weeks of agonizing and tiring series of processes, I am finally an official member of "The Parliament: UPLB Debate Society". Although agribusiness may not directly relate to debating, I'm in it for the sake of curiosity and learning. I am hoping, with my utmost effort and endeavor, to be a national champion someday.

TOXIC (LB series)

©darrengarcia

©darrengarcia

It's so awesome to have this event. I badly need energy. And it really gave me a boost to keep me on going. Indeed, it's empowering to know that you have the best source of strength in the whole universe.

(Bad photos are due to phone's cam)

Lab Ending

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Our last animal science laboratory meeting. 'Til then friends from the agriculture sector.

Rice Cross-breeding

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Earlier, we were taught how to remove the anthers of a rice's panicle to prepare the plant for cross-breeding. It takes 8 generations of rice,almost 7 years to make one variety. In simple terms...it's hard to be a farmer. Appreciate every grain of rice. DON'T WASTE!

Crop Appreciation Day

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Saturday was our crop appreciation day. We just had a scavenger hunt and food fest. To be honest, my appreciation of crops did not, in any way, upgrade. 

White Flag Raised

©darrengarcia

This may not be our work. This may be our competitor's. But it's still awesome.

Entrance to Parliament

©darrengarcia

I'm busier than ever. Acads workload is already heavy and I'm still joining an org. Processing the membership is not that easy, 3 weeks period. This is my choice, and I have to face the consequences. I take it as a challenge. What is to fear and worry when your strength comes from the strongest fortress. 

Italian Ice Water

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Blue Raspberry Italian Ice water for a hot day. Cheap and refreshing. 4 stars.

Petite cake

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©darrengarcia

When I was on my way home, I dropped by a cake shop along gateway to buy a small treat for my sister. Although it's much expensive rather than buying a regular size cake, it was pretty awesome. It's competitive edge is its cuteness factor; a cake that is just as big as my hand. It's taste is acceptable, but it's really the uniqueness that was paid for.

Perfect Cup of Tea

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Recently, I discovered myself taking delight in hot tea. I don't usually like the taste because it's bland. However, at Black&Brew I realized that it does feel relaxing as you take a sip. Truly, tea and honey is a perfect combination.

10 Health Benefits of Tea

( retrieved from www.ivillage.com)

• Tea contains antioxidants
• Tea has less caffeine than coffee.
• Tea may reduce your risk of heart attack and stroke.
• Tea protects your bones.
• Tea gives you a sweet smile.
• Tea bolsters your immune defenses.
• Tea protects against cancer. 
• Tea helps keep you hydrated.
• Tea is calorie-free.
• Tea increases your metabolism.

The Life of Pee

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It costs to pee... which is why a restroom in LB made this cool marketing signage.

Avian Murder

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©darrengarcia

For the sake of knowledge...I, Darren Garcia, have murdered an innocent chicken. Groped by my conscience, I wasn't able to eat food with any chicken ingredient that day. I believe, not having a chicken meal served justice to that creature whom I slaughtered. Although, at the end of the day, someone has to do the dirty work for the welfare of many.