Ice scramble, more commonly called iskrambol, is a slush-like pink or purple drink commonly peddled on the streets by enterprising individuals on a bike with a cart.  It used to be exclusively sold by these vendors and can be often seen where the children are, at schools, parks or playgrounds.  Most of today's grownups remember these often pink concoctions with fondness, as it takes them back to a time when happiness was as easy as savoring a small cup of pure sweetness bought for a mere peso.  Nowadays, ice scramble stalls are ubiquitous in malls and anywhere people are plentiful.  The older patrons buy it for the sweet nostalgia of eating them when they were children.  The younger ones buy them out of curiosity and discover the sweet and simple happiness they bring.         

Iskrambol, from the English "to scramble," is a kind of iced-based treat like a sorbet combined with various flavorings and usually topped with chocolate syrup. It is eaten by "scrambling" the contents or mixing them, then drinking with a large straw. It was later modified into ice scramble, or simply scramble, but with added skim milk, chocolate and/or strawberry syrup, and a choice of toppings such as marshmallows, chocolate or candy sprinkles, rice crispies, or tapioca pearls.

Iskrambol is an enjoyable treat especially in the summer or on warm days.  The coolness and sweetness of it is definitely a relief from the tropical Philippine weather.  The uniquely bright and colorful appearance makes it irresistible to children.  And as for some who have enjoyed it in the past, it reminds them of the simple happiness it can bring.