Day 2: #30gratefuldays | Magnets

Magnets from my BFF

My magnet collection  

Magnets from my recent trip to Singapore  

I collect magnets from all my trips. Since my loved ones know about this hobby, they tend to buy magnets for me as tokens. Yesterday was memorable as I had lunch at Italianni's with my best friend from college. He recently went to Baguio for business, so he got me three magnets from there. I am happy to be remembered and it warms my heart that my collection is growing, one memory at a time.  

Collecting magnets gives me a tangible connection to the places I have been to and the memories created in each location. For those that were given to me, I am grateful to be in my loved ones' minds. I look forward to growing my collection with the desire that my passion for life with magnetize me to better experiences and meaningful pursuits.  

Day 1: #30GratefulDays Launch with Brekkie

My life has been a roller coaster ride of late. I have resigned from my job, resumed my daily workouts at the park, blogged everyday as always, and sent my CV to companies that are hiring.  It is easy to lose my bearings and focus. To be honest, there are days when I just want to give up and mope around. However, I have since learned that owning my narrative is key to overhauling my life. If I cannot take responsibility for my own existence, even for things that are beyond my control, then I will end up going nowhere. And since I want to get back on my feet, I have decided to own my joblessness, my hypothyroidism, my fitness goals, my jobhunting, and my thirst for knowledge. Speaking of thirst for knowledge, I do not have money to enroll in graduate school. I also cannot commit to a fixed term knowing that I may have a full-time job soon. I am dying to join a life coaching or passion project boot camp but my lack of funds is preventing me from doing so. As a result, I am reading and buying books to educate myself and keep my mind abreast with the latest trends, lingo, and possible endeavors. 

I recently purchased a book entitled "You Can Be Happy Again" by Edwin S. Soriano. The author is a life coach and while I am still halfway through the book, I have already picked up plenty of positive tidbits to keep me going. One of these learnings is the importance of gratitude. Having a thankful attitude changes everything. To improve my life (as the author has dared me to do so), I am launching #30gratefuldays which will document my life here on my online diary but with a thankful twist. Instead of focusing on my need for employment, fulfillment, and what have you, I will spend the next month highlighting what I am grateful for. I am eager to see how this turns out.

For day one, I am thankful for my quick breakfast at Mister Kabab, a cult favorite here in Quezon City. I always have their special chicken chelo kabab and brewed coffee. It may have been a fast meal after my workout, but it did wonders to elevate my day from blah to fabulous. It really helps to diversify my schedule every once in a while, as long as it does not break the bank. I am thankful that I was able to have a delicious brekkie and I was able to finish the novel "The Ugly Sister" by Jane Fallon, which was a funny Brit wit chick flick while doing so. I look forward to the next thirty days and who knows, I may really improve my perspective by focusing on what to be grateful for.

Zumba and Breakfast

It is no secret that I enjoy my daily workouts. I religiously exercise each morning because it helps balance all my systems, especially since my hypothyroidism tends to put everything off-sync in the absence of physical activity. I have also noticed that exercise works wonders for my mental health. I feel better about myself after compeleting a workout, and my mood throughout the day is more consistent. It is the endorphin rush that keeps me going and happy. Because I workout first thing in the morning, it is essential that I have a hearty breakfast. Now that I am unemployed, my default brekkie are two pieces of pandesal and peanut butter. However, I felt extra hungry earlier because our instructor switched things up with more taebo. As a result, I craved for toasted naked longganisa, brown rice, and egg. I rushed to Breakfast Bin the minute my workout wrapped up. I had my longganisa fix and it was utterly satisfying.

I have realized that depriving myself is never a good idea. Even if I am currently on a tight budget, an occasional meal to satisfy my cravings would not hurt and it makes all the Zumba moves worth it. Breakfast also regulates my metabolism, which is a big deal with hypothyroidism. I get full and I also balance my health with a nutritious post-workout breakfast.

Just Dance!

Today, my Zumba group was featured at Bagong Pilipinas, a morning show. It was fun to dance in front of a live video camera and I enjoyed grooving to the beat as our instructor was being interviewed. I used to be conscious about my dancing because I am not a skilled one, but I realized earlier that I no longer care. Here's to letting go and dancing to the beat of life! 

Sam's Singapore

Singapore for me is an easy place to unwind and relax. As an urbanite, I find more tranquility in city noise and ​busyness. Being on holiday amidst a progressive and modern city is my kind of paradise. Here are a few vacation tips I have if you are planning to visit SG. 

1. Go to the library@orchard for a free! If you are a bibliophile ​like me, you will definitely enjoy spending hours reading in this gorgeous space known for its wave-shaped bookshelves. There are also comfortable seats and nooks for you to plug your gadgets and your mind. 

2. There are ice cream uncles selling cheap ice cream sandwiches for only SG$1.20. My favorite flavors are durian and mint chocolate chip. Do ask uncle to serve it in bread. 

3.​ If you like quality stationery, drop by Kikki.K at iON Orchard for Swedish-designed leather notebooks, planners, paper, and office supplies. You will fall in love with the simplicity of each piece. You will find yourself eager to plan ahead with their planners and paper inserts. 

​4. Never skip a visit to the National Museum. The story of Singapore is creatively told for each visitor to understand the determination of this island nation to succeed amidst insurmountable challenges. 

5. Another museum worth visiting is the National Gallery. You will be blown away by its extensive collection of definitive exhibitions featuring the best of Southeast Asian art. Do appreciate the beautiful architectural details as well which can be found all throughout the gallery. ​

6. Take the MRT! It is reliable, safe, and easy to grasp via Google maps. Singaporeans are also helpful and polite so do not hesitate to ask questions if you need directions or assistance with train stations and lines. 

7. If you are too exhausted to take the MRT, you may also ride a car using Uber and Grab. ​

8. Do workout everyday and walk as much as you can! 

9. It is advisable to exercise the day after landing home to ensure that all the delicious food from your vacation is efficiently burned.  

10. Do unpack immediately to effectively transition yourself to your life back home. 

Those were my tips for making your SG holiday memorable. If you get tired, you may want to chill out with a cup of Kopi (coffee with evaporated milk) which can be found along any hawker food hall or food republic court. Make the most out of each moment and just enjoy yourself in SG! 

Causes for Animals SG

I swung by CAS SG's Animals Day Out. I donated a small amount to have photos taken with friendly doggos. I got pupper kisses and cuddles. Definitely worth smiling for charity!

Breakfast Matters

I enjoy eating breakfast so much because it energizes me throughout my day. It is also a requirement for me to eat breakfast forty-five minutes after I take my thyroxine hormone tablet. Because of this, the first meal of the day has become an important part of my lifestyle. I build my meals around the first one I have, and I tend to indulge in it the most because I usually have it after I workout.

The past three days have been special because I have been eating breakfast at the Mandarin Orchard Singapore. I workout every morning at the hotel gym so I am starving by the time I reach the buffet. This is the best breakfast buffet I have ever had. My favorites are the matcha muffin, pancakes with condensed milk, lor mee, cheese, and teh tarik. 

It is awesome to have fancy breakfasts every one in a while. I do hope I can get a job soon so I can have breakfast at an office again. For now, I am enjoying my last brekkie here. I look forward to more filling mornings to come. 

library@orchard

I am thrilled to have explored one of the branches of Singapore's National Library here at Orchard Gateway. I am stunned by the flowing architecture of this space. It is conducive for reading, writing, and just plain hanging out. I am inspired by the openness of this place. 

Commuting Alone

I enjoy commuting alone because it keeps my mind free to think of things that matter like this blog or my jobhunting. Unlike driving, commuting gives me a sense of being one with the collective. I find joy in going places faster. Singapore's MRT system is modern and efficient. Having experienced the country's convenient public transport was a memorable break from the horrendous commute I have back home.  

Slinky Friday

I justness finished my visit at We're the Furballs, the popular dog cafe here in Singapore. I had a lovely time with all the dogs, especially with Slinky the dachshund. She's so soft and silky! It was worth the train ride. I am so thankful to my friend Addy for recommending this to me🐶! 

Lourdes at SG

I survived the MRT here at SG! I just visited the beautiful Church of Our Lady of Lourdes in Bugis. Mama Mary has granted me many miracles, and I am praying for more. I have faith that her intercession will always be my most effective secret.  

Eating Colorfully

My lunch yesterday was at Food for Thought, located at the National Museum of Singapore. Their Smoked Salmon Hash was heavenly! There was salmon, avocado, hash, poached egg, and greens. It was amazing and healthy. I am continuing my creative journaling whenever I can to prove that I can eat healthfully and colorfully.  

Just Wear That Dress

I am currently wearing a dress I bought for less than Php250 at a department store. It fits me perfectly and I am giddy that I am finally able to wear body fit outfits. Here's to continuous fitness goals and confidence!

Eat That Ice Cream!

I am currently on vacation and I worked out this afternoon so I can EAT! I decided not to deprive myself during this trip. Yes, I had the ice cream that my heart has been set on for so long. I had durian ice cream from a sidewalk vendor along Orchard Road. It was so good! And also, I had the corn ice cream twirl at McDonald's. It was refreshingly satisfying. Vacations should be enjoyed. Just like my ice cream, which I devoured before it even melted.  

Keeping You Posted

Today, we got to explore the Fullerton Hotel, which was formerly the main post office of Singapore. Now, it is a lovely hotel with a charming vintage charm. It is also the gateway to another destination of ours, the Merlion Park. I have decided to make the most out of my vacation. I may not have much right now, but I can totally live in the moment and that is surely the best thing about making life beautiful. 

Stay Drawn

It has been quite a while since I last played with my art journal. I have been engrossed with books and yes, surviving unemployment. Being stuck in a plane with good food was the perfect catalyst to my hiatus from journaling. I was inspired by the colors in my breakfast to draw and long my meal. The result is a delicious blur on my tastebuds and traveler's notebook.

Lugaw Luxe

Eating arroz caldo at The Philippine Airlines Mabuhay Lounge has become a tradition for my family whenever we travel. It is fascinating that the simple breakfast staple I buy for P25 at my local park can be elevated to a luxury. I am aware of how fortunate I am to have been given the privilege of traveling with them to Singapore to celebrate my mother's birthday. I am unemployed so I am unable to afford this without their support. I am very lucky to be able to have a short break from reality, and I am praying that by the time I get back, I will already have job interviews to attend. I really miss working, so I hope to be able to join the workforce soon. For now, I am enjoying my porridge while we await our flight. It is a priceless family memory.  

MIBF 2017

Today was fun as I spent my morning and afternoon at the Manila International Book Fair. It is my annual event, no matter what my economic status is. Now that I am unemployed, I only bought Shepherd's Voice books and 2018 Didaches for me and A. I still enjoyed my day because I LOVE being surrounded by fellow bibliophiles. The energy was just positive and it gives me a renewed belief in the power of the written word to unite people from all walks of life. If you are in a budget like me, read my survival tips below:

1. Ask for a map (from the secretariat booth) of the exhibitors and bookstores you plan to visit in the book fair. That way, you get to economize time and you will know where to go! 

2. Make a shopping list of books and stick to it.  

3. Bring your own eco bag. ​If you have a limited budget, just bring one small eco bag like I did. I already pre-filled half of that eco bag with a shawl and a bottle of water, which will help you survive the air conditioned SMX Convention Center. You will need the water. Trust me. 

4. Albergus has catered meals within the venue. Prices for the set meals are P150 and P200. I got the P200 meal, which has two viands. It was really good and I always eat at Albergus because it is one of the reasons that make the book fair worth attending even if I live in QC. ​

5. If you want to go for the book signings, consult the schedule which can be found at the Secretariat booth. ​

6. CoCo Milk Tea now has a branch at SMX. It is still my favorite milk tea brand and they are still the most reasonably-priced Taiwanese franchise for me. Do check them out. My favorite is the large CoCo milk tea without pearls.  

7. Lastly, if you intend to go back to the book fair within the day, do have your wrist stamped by the guard so you will be granted re-entry.  

MIBF continues to be an amazing event for book lovers and I cannot wait to attend next year's edition! I am sure you will not regret attending it too. Hopefully, I will have more budget next year so I can buy more books!

Raindrops

I am staying at home today as the raindrops sound ominous at the moment. There are moments when the rain weakens, and it is reduced to a drizzle. However, I would not want to take a chance especially since some roads are already flooded by now. I have decided to stay in and workout using my YouTube videoes. It was refreshing to burn calories in the comfort of my own home after spending several weeks following my Zumba classes at the park. Since I have a small space, I chose power walking combined with toning videos. By the time my workout hour was over, I was dripping in sweat and I could feel my thighs and bum on fire. ​

I had pandesal, peanut butter (I am allergic to peanuts and nuts but I can tolerate peanut butter), banana and coffee for breakfast. I love slow mornings because they are conducive for reading and catching up on social media. I also enjoy planning my upcoming days and weeks over a cuppa. I am supposed to go out later but we have postponed our get-together as the typhoon is expected to intensify as the day goes by. For now, I am enjoying the sound of the rain and the book in my hand. ​

Fluffy Love

Yesterday was a fun-filled day for me and A. We attended the third anniversary bash of Barkin Blends, the first dog cafe in the country. We had an amazing time because it was a Harry Potter-themed event! We were personally welcomed by Bernadette, the entrepreneur behind the cafe, who outdid herself this year. All her dogs are adorable, friendly, and trained to entertain guests. Whenever I can drop by, I make it a point to hang out at the cafe and have a cuppa with my favorite dog Ella, who is a chiweenie. If she is not in the cafe, I spend time with the other dogs and they do cheer me up when skies are gray and whenever I just need some fluffy kisses. ​I tried visiting a cat cafe before but it's just not the same. I'm a dog lover through and through, and I am very happy that Barkin Blends has become a haven for human floof fans who cannot have pets of their own.

I attended the weekday mass today at a new chapel near my place. It was serene and calming, and I was glad to have spent my time with the Lord. The closing song was "Give Thanks", and it struck a chord with me. These past few weeks have been challenging as I am still unemployed, but if I will maintain an attitude of gratitude, then my perspective will be more accepting and positive. I later had a snack at Dunkin Donuts. I may not be able to afford expensive meals for now, but I am capable of treating myself. Having me time after my Sundate and prayer hour is uplifting. I should do this more often so I can keep my priorities and plans in check.​

Who knew that a few hours with loved ones and the Lord could jumpstart my week? I'm stoked to carry on with whatever life will throw at me this week. For now, I am enjoying my coffee and solitude. ​