I miss being able to experiment with food. I'm not as flexible now. I don't cook with the same fervor anymore. My wife gave me a pasta cookbook last November. I was delighted to get such a precious gift. My wife always had this uncanny ability to read my mind. She almost always buys something that's in my secret wish list. Anyway, I also watch Keith Floyd's cooking show all the time, even when I was in the hospital.

The two were sources of inspiration. But now, I can't stand reading the cookbook. It only reminds me of what I can't have. It's like a see-through pandora's box with little poisoned tarts so beautiful to behold. LOL.

I still watch Floyd, though. They air his shows over Discovery Travel and Adventure. It always amuses me to watch him flamboyantly cook in exotic locations. Quite a chap, that Floyd fellow. He's quite the typical Brit merchant and restauratuer; well-traveled, charming and witty. The irreverence of his English wit never fails to make me smile. He also sips a lot of wine while he's cooking. Quite famous the UK, he's considered a celebrity chef. Discovery is even sponsoring a contest for free passes to see him in person. They're bringing him to Singapore. Unfortunately, the contest is open only to Singapore residents. I would've loved to meet him. But then again, no.

Having no travel experience, I think I have a better chance of getting a date with Drew Barrymore than getting a travel visa to Singapore. The immigration authorities of Singapore are naturally suspicious of Filipino tourists (the opposite is true for UK tourists). They surmise Pinoys have a tendency to stay illegally after their visas expire. Even if I do get my travel arrangements in order, what would I say to him when I meet him? I mean after years of traveling he must have already heard every accolade conceivable in the English language. I think I'd be better off wishing for Drew Barrymore. LOL .