Healing and Hugs

Yesterday, I got to enjoy my day after my transformation of work conference at AIM.

I checked out the Peek-a-Book exhibition at the Ayala Museum for my first stop.  

Here are my favorites: 

Then, I got myself some milk tea from Teaberi. Their cup looks fab with my cozy from The Attic Yarn and Craftery! 

I went for some pampering at a salon.  

I got myself some trendy hairpins! 

I rode the MRT and the LRT.  

Then, it was cuddle time with my furry friends at Barkin’ Blends Dog Cafe Sta. Lucia branch. 

I ended my day with a healing mass officiated by Fr. Fernando Suarez. 

I prayed for my terminally-ill father, as well as for my jobhunting journey.  

It doesn’t take much to make me happy. I just need some art, hugs, and healing from the challenges that each day brings. With faith and positivity, I know that I got this.  

Future of Work

Yesterday, I started my morning with some taho! 

I was in a cheerful mood for my conference at AIM.  

The conference, entitled Transformation of Work in the Asia-Pacific in the 21st Century: Key Policy Implications discussed how the workforce should adapt in the Fourth Industrial Revolution. 

As a freelance writer and blogger, I am confident that I am using technology wisely in promoting my message of mindful living and handmade life. However, I am also jobhunting, so it’s important that I am aware of the skills that are necessary to continue being relevant in the workplace. I am happy that there are conferences like this, and that I am able to learn that soft skills are the key to staying on top of the automation of work.  

Ladies First!

Yesterday, I went to Makati for an event. But first, I dropped by the Washington Sycip park for some sunshine and good vibes. 

After my short walk, I proceeded to the Keds Ladies for Ladies event at Acceler8 by Unionspace. 

I won the entrance to this party through Human Nature, the brand that I distribute on my online store. Please buy and support me today by clicking here!

I was delighted to see millennial details like board games, greenery, and books. 

I met up with Anna Meloto-Wilk and Camille Meloto-Rodriguez, who founded Human Nature along with Dylan Wilk (Anna’s husband) in 2008. 

I felt inspired by simply being there. There were ladies from different industries in that room, and while it was primarily to celebrate a sneaker line, it was magical to witness women leaders speak about their journeys and battles.  

The grazing table was the focal point of the event as food naturally brought ladies together for some hearty cocktails and pica-pica.  

The event started with a sharing from Stacy and Danah Gutierrez of Plump PH. Their body positivity movement needs no introduction, but it was their personal motivations that moved me. They began their cause from their struggles with their weight and self-acceptance. Now, they receive validation from celebrities and global brands like Keds. They’re truly an inspiration. 

My Human Nature girlbosses Camille and Anna warmed our hearts with their selfless goals to provide jobs for fellow Filipinos and provide natural alternatives that even the average Pinoy can afford. They have acknowledged that while it’s not easy to be perceived wrongly based on their looks and gender (they both look young for their ages!), their hard work eventually spoke for itself.  

The Cosmopolitan Philippines ladies Jilly Gatcheco-Cantada and Retty Contreras spoke about building a better workplace for women. Their stance on collaboration and kindness built in me a resolve to become a compassionate coworker in my next job. 

Lastly, Gabbi Garcia graced the event. Her poise, class, and anti-bullying stance in showbiz gave me hope in a society that tends to pull women down. 

I learned to appreciate opportunities such as this event because ladies do really have a voice in society. While there may be challenges along the way, we can get through them together as long as we collaborate rather than be mean to each other.

I look forward to being a more empowered woman this year, and beyond!

Assam Milk Tea Vibes

Last Sunday, I started my day with some handmade accessories: my ceramic earrings from Maria Ceramika and my stainless steel and crystal necklace from Made by KCA.  

I was happy to spot some pretty tiles while ordering milk tea.

I was feeling festive, so I got myself some Assam Milk Tea with Pudding and Pannacotta. This drink simply reminds me of good vibes and simpler times. 

Then, I got myself a bracelet spelled g-r-i-t from Bedazzled Accessories at The Craft Central. It should remind me to keep going during tough times because I’m resilient and resourceful. 

It was day two of the Destash Bash at The Craft Central Cafe! My favorite yarn store, The Attic Yarn and Craftery had a booth there, where they sold affordable yarns and makes.   

I got myself this lovely cup cozy crocheted with love by Ceryl, one of the women behind this brand. I am thankful to have found this brand, and I look forward to more years of friendship with them.  

I also returned to Made by KCA’s booth at the bazaar outside Vertis North. I got myself a moonstone ring inspired by my undying love for Bella Swan of the Twilight books. 

I will forever support handmade because it inspires me to be a better person! I may not have much, but because I have grit and a good eye for local treasures, I know that I will survive anything that life throws at me. 

And at the end of the day, there’s always milk tea.  

Human Nature Summer

Last Saturday, I attended the New Products Launch at the Human Nature Store The Block.  

Please support my Human Nature Online Store! Every purchase supports me and my family. Thank you!

This is the brand’s first branch in a major mall and I’m all for it! 

I am excited for the Sunflower Body Scrub because I’m a devotee of their sunflower beauty oil. Naturally, their scrub will be just as nourishing!

Summer is definitely here and I’m happy that I have natural products to keep me fresh and clean without polluting the environment. 

Buy Human Nature products from me today and feel the difference in your skin the natural way!

Handmade Gems

I dropped by the Destash Bash at The Craft Central Cafe yesterday. I was looking for new stud earrings, and I was not disappointed!

Maria Ceramika had accessories that spoke to me. I love handmade earrings because they perfectly complement my pixie cut. The brand is run by emerging ceramicist Aileen Viñas from UP College of Fine Arts. I’m a fan of her work and I’ll surely watch out for her brand’s growth. 

I also dropped by my friend Jensen’s booth. She sold some cute trinkets at her booth. She’s my favorite Craft Central employee, and she knows all the cool handmade brands to watch out for. 

There were other booths in the Destash Bash offering affordable art and home supplies.  

I ended up buying a couple of ceramic studs from Maria Ceramika. 

Then, I proceeded to the bazaar outside Vertis North to buy a handmade crystal necklace from local brand Made by KCA. 

I already got a pair of dangling earrings from the brand at the now-defunct Wanderspace Cafe last year. This time, I selected a trio of pendants for everyday wear: aquamarine, peridot, and rose quartz.  

I love my new accessories! I always choose stainless steel pieces because I have acidic skin. 

Here’s the handpainted pencil case I got from Jensen and my new necklace. I love how the colors match- and how handmade continues to make me happy. 

I’ll forever be a handmade fan! Do check out these brands and keep on following my blog for more local discoveries in the future. 

Corner Pixie

Yesterday, I got a pixie trim from our neighborhood salon. I am happy that there’s a reliable salon just around the corner. 

I love that the stylist knows how to cut a mean pixie! It’s not easy to find a skilled stylist who can make me look pretty and polished with my pixie cut. Some stylists in the past have made me look boyish, which is why looking for the right stylist is key to maintain this wash-and-wear cut. I am glad that I found my match a few steps away from home. 

I also had a delicious kani mango sandwich and caramel frappe from the cafe in our neighborhood.  I am loving how close these establishments are to my home, and that my interests- monthly pixie trims and daily coffee- are conveniently within my reach. 

It doesn’t take much to keep myself happy and looking sharp. I know where to eat, go for a haircut, and how to live a good life without breaking the bank.

Here’s to more adventures just around the corner! 

Ella and Vivaldi

Yesterday, I spent time with my beloved doggo buddies at Barkin’ Blends Dog Cafe.  

I was feeling cuddly with my favorite dog Ella.  

I received kisses from Stitch the Frenchie.  

For snack, I had the Chocnut Dinosaur froyo from Elait. This is my new favorite from this celebrated ice cream stand! It is delicious.  

Then, I commuted to the Ayala Museum for a night with the Manila Symphony Junior Orchestra.  

I had coffee and knitted while listening to them play my all-time favorite classical piece: Antonio Vivaldi’s Four Seasons.  

To combat stress and fatigue, I find ways to keep myself happy. Dogs, ice cream, and classical music are just some of my preferred pastimes. Surely, I’ll find another concert to enjoy, and another afternoon with puppies. 

Onward

Lately, we’ve been having water interruptions in our city. We have adjusted to the schedules, and in my case, changed my lifestyle to ensure that I am able to keep up with the shortages. I make sure that I have enough water to keep myself clean and hydrated. Our household is doing its best to live with dignity amidst the status quo. 

This was why the lunch celebration we had to celebrate an uncle’s birthday yesterday was a welcome relief from the challenges we are facing. It was held in Amici, where I had this delicious plate of Spaghetti Pomodoro. I loved it, and I’ll order it again when I’m in the restaurant soon. 

Life may throw many challenges my way, but I’m strong enough to face them and keep my family afloat. They are simply tests to strengthen my faith and keep me going. For now, I will keep on hustling, fighting, and collecting enough water for the next few days and weeks. 

Ring for the Babies

At a time when life’s challenges can get overwhelming, I was able to find a way to share my blessings while indulging in my love for jewelry. I recently purchased a silver ring from local brand Vera Juan, who’s currently on hiatus. Before she went on a break, she sold some jewelry for the benefit of the Leycano twins. They were born prematurely, and their parents need help in paying their medical bills. You may help them via this GoGetFunding page. 

My ring is sparkly and dainty! Perfect for my small hand, this ring will inspire me to shine bright even during dark times. Thanks to the twin girls Pia and Paz, I am inspired to find ways to help others while empowering myself.  

Here’s to more sharing and helping in the coming weeks and months! 

Barbie Style

Yesterday, I spent time with my family. We had lunch at Via Mare, where I had the corned beef sauté breakfast meal.  

I was able to buy doll clothes and shoes for my Made to Move Barbie doll at Landmark Department Store. 

I got this burgundy gown which was too long for my doll.  

The pack of shoes were delightful, though. The jelly heels match her existing Hello Kitty outfit perfectly.  

I shortened her gown and turned it into a dress to showcase her new pairs of shoes.  

With a little creativity and imagination, life can be so much better! I’m never too old to enjoy the simple joys of play.  

Forever Young

As I face many challenges with my dad being terminally-ill and my jobhunting journey, I felt that I needed a break. I went to Barkin’ Blends Dog Cafe to unwind with their friendly doggos.  

I missed my favorite dog Ella’s kisses! She’s a tiny chiweenie with a big heart.  

With Bonita, a tiny poodle. 

Chocnut and Stitch!

With Stitch. 

With Martha. 

And Happy the Pug!

I had lunch with my family at Conti’s. Their chicken roulade was delicious! 

For dessert, I had the Oreo matcha frozen yogurt from Elait.  

Then, I dropped by the Barbie birthday event at The Block. 

I’m a shameless Barbie fan. I got dolls for me and my goddaughter Kate.  

I could hardly contain my excitement with my new doll. 

My Grab car yesterday was cute! It had Doraemon seatcovers. 

Then, I dressed my new doll in her new Hello Kitty outfit.  

She’s a Made to Move Barbie, and I had fun posing her. 

There’s nothing wrong with playing with toys as an adult. Being forever young helps me manage with life’s stresses with positivity and good vibes.  

Here’s to more happy days ahead!

Core Advocacy

Yesterday, I joined a workshop on growing my income at the Human Nature Flagship Store.  

I joined my fellow Core Advocates in learning and sharing on a Saturday afternoon. Our colleague, Lei, was the enthusiastic resource speaker.  

The lecture was practical, and well-received! I will definitely use the SMART goals in planning and organizing. 

Building my empire sounds daunting, but it really is achievable. I have to consistently practice effort and creativity in order to earn more and be more!

Here’s to more learning this 2019! 

Coloring and Coffee

I recently took up coloring again after I purchased three adult coloring books from this year’s Big Bad Wolf. I wanted to diversify my hobbies as I care for my terminally-ill father. While knitting and crocheting keep my mind active, I need to give my hands a break. 

Coloring is something that I can do while having coffee. I love letting my mind see promise in big drawings that I can bring to life.  

So far, coloring has taught me to embrace imperfections like going beyond the lines and inconsistent spaces. In the process, I have learned to be more patient with myself.  

I know that this is only the beginning of my coloring journey! There will definitely be more hours getting lost in these pages.  

Life is too short. Choose a hobby that will keep your mind sharp and your soul full.  

Fueling Women

Yesterday, I started my day with some toasted longganisa and hot chocolate at Breakfast Bin.  

Then, I checked out some exhibitions at the Ayala Museum. 

I especially liked their Women and War exhibit. 

After running some errands, I got myself some pares and siomai from Kanto Pares. Yum! 

As a woman, I prioritize self-care because the most important person in my story is me. Seeing empowering exhibits and eating yummy food are just two ways to fuel myself. Happy International Women’s Day! 

Maria Movie Premiere

Last night, I went to UP Cine Adarna for the premiere of Maria. The night was a lovely blur, just like this photo. 

I’m all for a female-led action movie, and I’m happy that Cristine Reyes is the lead of this promising local film.  

The iconic ceiling of UP Cine Adarna is mesmerizing.  

Cristine Reyes is beautiful in her new hot pink pixie. 

I stayed for the Q&A with the cast and production crew. The movie kicked ass and I highly recommend it! 

Here’s to more female action movies and local films! 

Ash Wednesday 2019

I celebrated Ash Wednesday with a solemn mass at the Pink Sisters Convent in New Manila. 

I made sure that our helper joined me in order to pray for more blessings for our household. She also has her own intentions, and I hope that she will also personally commemorate Lent. 

I find the Pink Sisters Convent to be an oasis of calm in the middle of the city. I am fortunate to live nearby, and that I can frequently hear mass at this beautiful chapel.  

May this season of Lent usher in blessings such as work and healing! 

Big Bad Wolf 2019

Yesterday, I ate brekkie at our neighborhood canteen. I had tortang talong (eggplant omelette) and rice. It was so good! 

Then, I had lunch at the 24-hour pop-up food court at Big Bad Wolf 2019!

I got my usual at Potdog: crab egg with rice. Yum!

It was cool to see social enterprise goods by Gawad Kalinga at the food court. 

I was excited for this year’s Big Bad Wolf as I was able to hunt some fabulous finds last year. 

The overwhelming amount of books did not faze me as I clearly knew what I wanted. 

Still, I browsed through the stacks of books and enjoyed the hours I spent at the fair.  

I stuck to my shopping list and bought three adult coloring books. I have already migrated to using ebooks, but the joy of coloring cannot be replicated by an app. I needed the real deal. 

Before leaving the fair, I dropped by the Red Readerhood booth. 

I donated two books for Gawad Kalinga kids. Of course, I had to select dog-themed books. 

I offered eggs and prayers at St. Clare to ask for miracles for my family.  

I wrapped up my day with some coffee jelly and coloring therapy at the café near home.  

Books, food, knitting, and coloring spark joy for me! I will be back for next year’s Big Bad Wolf for sure! 

Spring Scarf

Yesterday, I knitted while watching Jordyn Woods’ interview at Jada Smith’s Red Table Talk. I feel sad for her because she lost almost everything that she has because of one bad decision. It was painful to watch her interview, but I know that she’s intelligent and that she will somehow find her way through life. I just know it. 

I continued knitting well into the night, until I finished this scarf that evokes sunshine and happiness.  

Every time I finish knitting a scarf, I feel as if I am stitching together my story. Just like Jordyn, I’ve made some difficult decisions in the past. I’ve committed mistakes, and I have risen above them. More importantly, I have learned from them. I am thriving, crafting, and becoming. 

Just like my scarf’s colors, I am in the springtime of my life. New beginnings usher in blessings and positivity. I am optimistic that this is my season, and that I will finally get the right job opportunity for me.  

Videoke Night

Last night was a lovely opportunity for me to be grateful for all the blessings. My Human Nature family and I had our Core Advocate Night, wherein we focused on our theme for 2019: Matthew 6:33 (But seek first His kingdom and His righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well. NIV).

I am thankful for all the support that is extended to me as a Human Nature Dealer. Please continue doing so by purchasing from my Human Nature Online Shop!

We closed our fellowship with a potluck dinner and a videoke night! I had fun belting out my Aegis and Whitney Houston favorites. 

And of course, it was lovely to sing with friends.  

I found my tribe in this amazing company. I am excited to see us all grow together this 2019!