So I think I’ve finally satisfied my Pinoy food craving. And my ice cream craving. So I think I will actively pursue starvation once again. (She said as she ordered a rib-eye steak. Hey, I skipped the starch and asked for extra buttered vegetables instead.)

I will make an exception though if and when confronted with a worthy grilled ham and cheese sandwich and, of course, Dedet’s stuffed lechon which is currently being featured at the Diamond Hotel.

I also signed up for ten one-on-one Muay Thai sessions at Gold’s Gym.

I really cannot work out on my own. Especially at a traditional gym. I’m too lazy and get bored easily. I was considering a personal trainer but the trainers at this gym don’t particularly inspire confidence. At least their Muay Thai instructors look fit.

I had my first Muay Thai lesson in Chiang Mai ten years ago. It was intense and grueling, and I was sore for days. And then I had maybe two or three sessions at Elorde’s. That isn’t much, but I’m not exactly starting from zero. Because of my boxing background, I can throw decent punches. And, because of Krav Maga, I’m familiar with elbows and backfists. And I’d like to think that the few taekwondo lessons I’ve had with Dominic in Siargao have improved my kicks. (I really should continue my lessons with him.)

I’ve had two sessions and, so far, have really been enjoying myself. The pain is back and, boy, did I miss that pain. And now I have the added bonus of having an outlet for my aggression, although it must be annoying for the others at the gym because I do make a lot of noise when I punch and kick.

My regular trainer is supposed to be this guy, Carl. Except that he couldn’t make it yesterday so Emil substituted for him. As I’ve said before, I actually prefer having different trainers because each one has something different to impart and it’s always an opportunity to learn something new. Emil had me throwing combinations while carrying dumbbells, which I haven’t done before. By the end of the session, I was drenched in sweat and half dead.

I liked that.

“Thank god for home service massages.”