Posts by Liz

My Love-Hate IKEA Adventure – IKEA PHILIPPINES EXPERIENCE

Adventure

If only we didn’t need to go, but we have to. We’re huge fans of IKEA, it’s one of our highlights when traveling abroad to visit IKEA branches around the world. I find them very comparable to the one we have here.

The IKEA in our country is quite small, with a noticeably low ceiling that can feel a bit overwhelming, especially since it’s usually crowded. Navigating can be tricky, as many people don’t follow the directional arrows, which adds to the chaos. The restaurant, unfortunately, feels more like a school or office canteen due to its size, but the food makes up for it! I thoroughly enjoyed every bite.

That said, I did notice the staff looked tired as early as 10 AM, likely because the space gets packed and some visitors can be quite noisy. It’s understandable, but it can also get on your nerves after a while.

Final verdict: I’d still go back because I love their food, coffee, and products! But next time, I’ll plan better, perhaps visit on a weekday and aim to arrive right at 9 AM (though I’m baffled by how the restaurant was already busy when IKEA supposedly opens at 10 AM!).

Fingers crossed they open a new branch closer to my area (South peeps, let’s keep hoping!). That’s all for now! 😊

The Power of Language and the Tools We Use to Express Ourselves

my thoughts Technology

I’ll be honest: sometimes, it’s difficult for me to convey my thoughts in English, since it’s not my mother tongue. But I’m incredibly grateful for tools like ChatGPT, which help me express my ideas in clearer, more precise language. While the words may be enhanced by this tool, the thoughts, the emotions, and the essence of who I am are still mine.

“Words can steal from you, but the meaning and idea can’t.” while words (and even tools like ChatGPT) can help improve clarity and expression, the heart of your thoughts and ideas remains uniquely yours. The meaning is untouchable.

There’s a misconception that using tools like ChatGPT somehow removes the “you” from what you’re saying, but for me, it’s about reaching my full potential in communicating. It’s not about being “perfect” with words, but about connecting in the way that feels most authentic to me. English may not be my first language, but it’s a global one, and I want to share my thoughts and experiences with as many people as possible—across cultures, countries, and borders.

I may not be a wordsmith or a linguistic genius, but I’m determined to express myself in a language that bridges the gap between myself and others. And while I may not be as fluent or as eloquent as native speakers, I know that my words, no matter how imperfect, can still have value and meaning.

So, yes, I use tools like ChatGPT to help me articulate my thoughts in English, not to take away from who I am, but to enhance my ability to share my perspective with the world. Because at the end of the day, it’s not about the language I speak, but the message I’m trying to send. And that message is still authentically me.

“The limits of my language mean the limits of my world.” — Ludwig Wittgenstein

The Perfect Weeknight Meal: Steak and Arrabbiata Pasta

My Recipes

Steak and Pasta

I love this dish because it is so flavorful and satisfying. The steak is tender and juicy, and the arrabbiata sauce is spicy and flavorful. It is a perfect combination of protein and carbohydrates, and it is sure to please any crowd.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Course Main Course
Cuisine American, Italian
Servings 2

Ingredients
  

  • 1 pound ribeye steak about 1 inch thick
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • Salt and pepper
  • 1 pound penne pasta
  • 1 jar 24 ounces marinara sauce
  • 1 tablespoon red pepper flakes
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Instructions
 

  • reheat oven to 400 degrees F (200 degrees C).
  • Season the steak with salt and pepper.
  • Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the steak and cook for 3-4 minutes per side, or until browned and cooked to medium-rare.
  • Remove the steak from the pan and let it rest for 5 minutes.
  • Cook the pasta according to package directions.
  • In a saucepan, combine the marinara sauce and red pepper flakes. Simmer for 5 minutes.
  • Add the cooked pasta to the sauce and stir to coat.
  • Top with the grated Parmesan cheese and serve immediately.

Video

Notes

  • For a more flavorful steak, marinate it in a mixture of olive oil, garlic, and herbs for at least 1 hour.
  • If you want a spicier sauce, add more red pepper flakes.
  • You can also use other types of pasta, such as spaghetti or linguine.
  • This dish is a great option for a weeknight meal or a special occasion.
Enjoy!
Keyword Arrabiatta, Pasta, Spicy, Steak