Faith and Food

Yesterday, I visited Sta. Clara for my weekly check-in. She is already part of my routine, and it always gives me a sense of calm and serenity whenever I am there. ​I usually keep my visits there short and straight to the point. I offer eggs, ask for her intercession, and reflect on my current blessings, needs, and wants. Praying keeps me centered, and doing so at the monastery takes it to another level. It also helps that I have established it as part of my routine, so I no longer have any excuses to not drop by. 

After my visit, I ate breakfast at another regular hangout of mine, Oinkster. I had their ​toasted naked longganisa with brown rice and egg. Of course, I paired it with freshly brewed coffee. I enjoyed reading while eating my favorite brekkie. 

It was the perfect Saturday morning. Coupled with my workout, my faith x food routine is already essential to my lifestyle. Do you also have a regular routine that keeps you centered? I hope that you find yours this 2018, and when you do, keep doing it! It is fabulous to maintain positive habits for a better and more fulfilled life. ​

Surprise!

Yesterday, I received my first-ever present from Amazon. It was a book from my US-based aunt, and she got me Manifesting Your Greatest Self by Nick Ortner. 

I was practically beaming once I flipped the envelope over.  

The gift bag made me feel giddy and excited to see what’s inside!

I could not contain my happiness once I saw the book. It is exactly what I need right now, and I have been asking for new books from the Universe. Indeed, if you ask for stuff to happen to your life, you have to make it clear enough to be heard. 

You just might be surprised with its fulfillment, just like what happened to me! 

Requited x Specs

Yesterday, I had another afternoon adventure at UP Diliman. This time, I watched an indie film at Cine Adarna. It was entitled Requited, starring Jake Cuenca and Anna Luna. It was a movie which was centered on biking, unsettled feelings, and longingness. I enjoyed it because it reminded me that life should be spent traveling and exploring. I hope that there will be more local films centered on the wanderlust theme. 

After the movie, I claimed my Harry Potter-style frames from Sarabia Optical inside the Shopping Center. I was happy to finally wear it and yes, the frames are incredibly lightweight and comfortable. I love them! 

I decided to have a light snack of fishballs and kikiam. Then, I bought a fresh strawberry shake from Roma and Charlie. It was a delicious snack, and I think I will be a regular at that fruit shake stall. 

A meaningful day-out does not have to be expensive. With a little planning and openness to new experiences, we can enjoy more things in life. This year, I hope that you will also have more adventures. Here’s to a life well-lived, and the will to explore more this 2018!

Specs and Street Food

Last Monday, I finally got to have a pair of glasses made by the legendary Dra. Nella Sarabia. She is a huge supporter of Filipino rock artists and her interesting clientele has made her optical shop at UP Shopping Center a destination. Her shop is decorated with vintage cameras and photographs of the Mexican revolution. I just had to meet her and purchase a pair from her curated selection of stylish specs. 

Even if my vision is 20/20, I do enjoy wearing prescription-free glasses as accessories. I have them fitted with photochromic lenses so I can use them as sunglasses, which is convenient when I am driving or composing a blog post in a sunny area. I have a penchant for vintage frames because they add character to my style. So imagine my joy upon entering Dra. Nella’s shop, which was a vintage lover’s dream. She was also hip and really generous with providing discounts. I ended up choosing a pair of black round frames, which will be available for claiming later this week. I am so excited!

After paying for my glasses, my friend Chesca and I had some kwek kwek (deep fried quail eggs), kikiam, and avocado ice cream. Our trip to the UP Shopping Center was a simple and delightful moment which did not cost a lot.

I always find myself back at UP because it is a happy place for me. It does not take a lot for me to be happy. As long as I have a few vintage possessions and a steady supply of yummy eats, I’m good. 

Targeting Joy

Last Monday, I met up with my childhood friend Chesca. We had lunch at Salta!, which is my go-to place for delicious carbonara in Quezon City. 

Everything was yummy!

I like their handmade pasta because I can really taste the love behind the whole process.  

After an ice cream and Sagada coffee run at Papa Diddi’s (yes, another handmade food, but this time, it was ice cream), we proceeded to DMZ Archery Range to shoot some arrows. 

It was my first time to try archery with a friend and I enjoyed the afternoon! 

I was really there to let go of bad vibes and simply have fun.  

And it seems that Chesca also enjoyed her time at the range!

This was my favorite moment.  

We were so happy with our progress. 

Of course, the experience would not be complete without some photos on their logo wall. 

I got to hold this badass crossbow. It felt empowering!

I think we found a new hobby.

I surprisingly felt amazing during lunch and archery with Chesca. I was nervous that I might screw up my shots because I have only previously tried archery on my own. Nevertheless, it was fun to sneek in some laughs in between shooting arrows. I feel that archery will be my regular pasttime this 2018 and beyond! And yes, I look forward to spending more time with friends like Chesca.

Friendship Goals

I ate my Sausage McMuffin with Egg al fresco.  

Then, I was pleasantly surprised to see my high school friend Luti at the oval. We had to document this through a selfie! 

I went home to freshen up and then, I proceeded to Cinema Centenario to watch Patay na si Hesus starring the sensational Jaclyn Jose. It was an LOL movie with a killer script. 

I enjoyed my movie so much that I had to take another brisk walk around UP.  

Before I knew it, it was time for me to meet my college friend Gretch for some street food and convo.  

She was overjoyed to eat fishballs again! 

I was also this happy during that moment.  

We ordered pancit canton.  

Pancit canton and fishballs do make an interesting pairing! 

I was craving for something new so I ordered dynamite, which has chili, ham, and mayo inside the wrapper. It was delicious!

I turned down the heat with some dirty ice cream.  

After our food coma, we proceeded to Grape Escape for some red wine and a more comfortable ambience.  

That was a lovely day. I look forward to catching up with friends like Luti and Gretch again. As cheesy as it sounds, I am lucky to achieve friendship goals these days. I think I am doing just fine.  

Sakaling Hindi Makarating 2018

Last Saturday night, I watched Sakaling Hindi Makarating by Ice Idanan at Cinema Centenario. I have previously been to this microcinema at Maginhawa, and of course, it was perfect to view one of my favorite local films in my new hangout. 

I first watched SHM back in 2016, during its gala screening at Shangri-La Plaza. I was fresh from a breakup then, so the movie resonated with me. I watched it for the second time last year during its nationwide commercial release, and back then, I was in a relationship so the movie had a different feel for me. This time around, it is already 2018. I am single once more and I am determined to be happy by myself. Of course, it wouldn’t hurt to be with someone soon. But it is also important to realize that happiness begins with myself.  

SHM in 2018 was the ultimate reminder to self that a breakup is not the end of the world, but the beginning of a newfound love.  

This love is for myself, which is dedicated to pursuing new experiences. I will no longer dwell on the heartbreak. Rather, I would rather focus on moving forward with a zest for life and adventure. 

After the screening, the director Ice Idanan had a forum to answer questions regarding her movie. I learned that the film was inspired by her own heartbreak many years ago. As I am also healing from my own breakup, I am finding the will to live from fitness and mindfulness. Hopefully, I can emulate Ice and create something wonderful too as I trust the process of recovery. 

Watching this movie for the third time has made me realize that love is a journey which begins and ends with myself. If I will fall in love again, I will be able to share this love. As long as I continue loving myself, I will be fulfilled. Finding myself is a lot of BS because I have already found the secret to happiness. It is up to me to sustain it and pay it forward.  

Kilometer Zero

Yesterday, I visited Kilometer Zero at Luneta. I got the idea from Stephanie Perkins’ Anna and the French Kiss. Without providing spoilers, the protagonists had an important scene in their love story at Point Zero, which is the kilometer zero in Paris. Beyond the novel, Point Zero is still a hotspot for rituals involving luck and wish-making. As a result, I became eager to test this in our local Kilometer Zero located in front of my beloved Rizal’s final resting place. 

When I dropped by Luneta last Rizal Day, I was so moved by our late National Hero’s presence that I failed to notice that Kilometer Zero was literally in front of me. I only realized my oversight when I was already home. Thus, my determination to return to Kilometer Zero grew stronger during the week until I simply had to make the trip once and for all. So, after my workout, I took advantage of the traffic-free roads and made the commute to Luneta. 

I was greeted by history. 

I am very excited to visit this museum once it opens this May 2018.

Of course, this never gets old. 

A train named Pepe and Friends goes around Luneta for a minimal fee. 

It was a beautiful morning.  

This was morbidly gorgeous. 

I was about to cross the street when I first spotted Kilometer Zero.  

Finally, I made it!

I took my first selfie at KM 0. 

I wore another Rizal shirt for the occasion.  

I felt a sense of peace and hope whilst standing at the beginning of all roads in the Philippines. 

I just had to take another selfie with my homeboy Rizal. It felt good to see him again. 

I had a fruitful morning, and it was awesome to finally be at the beginning of everything geographically measured in the Philippines. I wished for all the best this 2018, and it was perfect to begin the year at KM 0. It was worth the commute!  

Do visit KM 0 at Luneta and make a wish or two! While you are there, take a brisk walk and appreciate history in the hallowed grounds. You will definitely enjoy your time.  

Post-Holiday Shopping

Yesterday, I finally spent the gift card from my Ninong Oscar to buy a basic black handbag from the department store. In keeping with my “buy local” advocacy, I bought a genuine leather number from Zoe Bags. It is sleek, reasonably priced, and stylish. I cannot wait to use it as I bag better opportunities this 2018!

I also had the chance to have my photo taken with the Sanrio holiday display. It made me feel like a kid again and it cheered me up! It pays to always be game to smile and seize every chance to have a memorable photo to capture moments of joy. 

I am all for simple pleasures in life. While I do own branded stuff, I still enjoy buying affordable pieces from department stores, bazaars, and online shops. I go for quality though, and I make sure that my money is spent well. As long as the item can serve me well, is made of materials which will enable it to last, and is within my budget, then I will definitely purchase it. Through the years, the most treasured items I own are those which are simple in design, yet thoughtfully made. I will be on the lookout for more blessings to come, and hopefully, these will spark joy into my life this 2018 and beyond.

Contemporary Art AM

Yesterday morning was chilly and I liked it because it was perfectly for my brisk walk around UP Diliman. After a quick breakfast of Rodic’s tapsilog  and instant coffee, I was on my feet, people watching while sound tripping. It was exhilarating, and it makes me wonder how come I only took up walking at UP now. Maybe it is because my heart really belongs to nature (think trees, grass, fresh air...). Or maybe I just need a fresh start this new year. 

After a few rounds around the oval, I proceeded to the Vargas Museum, which is one of my favorite places to explore for an art fix. Their current exhibit features contemporary art, and it did fuel my interest in beautiful paintings and sculptures. I enjoyed roaming around the museum, even if I am a frequent visitor. There is always something new here, and it pays to follow their Facebook posts for their exhibitions. Do check out the Vargas Museum at UP and experience the best of Filipino art and culture, at an accessible and inspiring location. 

Who knew that art and fitness could both be experienced in a single morning? I encourage you to try this out someday! It will definitely bring you joy.  

Microcinema Time

I have previously shared about my fascination with film and indie movies. I enjoy watching movies alone to destress and gain more empathy. I have learned from experience that film is more than just an escape from reality. It is a burgeoning art form which reflects our culture and history, as well as the direction that our society at large is taking. Thus, it was a real treat to discover that Cinema Centenario is now open at Maginhawa, my favourite street for food and indie culture. My first movie in the microcinema was Ang Larawan, which did not disappoint! It was a beautiful and moving musical, and I highly recommend it.

Cinema Centenario has an inclusive restroom, which is clean and is the first of its kind which I have encountered in Manila. They have film merchandise, snacks, Sagada coffee, and an affordable ticket price of Php200. They also have comfortable, elevated seats which is important in a microcinema as it shows that the management really cares that their viewers are able to watch movies in a conducive environment. Their sound system is also commendable. My experience was totally rad and I will definitely be a regular.

If you like indie films, small businesses, and quality experiences within your reach, do check out Cinema Centenario. You won’t be disappointed!

Jogging Blogger

I started jogging at UP three days ago. It was the last day of 2017, and the air was chilly. I was excited to try a new hobby, and I figured that brisk walking along the carless campus would do me some good. It was a breathtakingly silent experience, and I was struck with how much I enjoyed the meditative workout. It was delightful to be with other joggers and walkers. 

I returned the next day, as it was the first day of 2018 and I wanted a fresh start. The cool morning breeze was the ideal accompaniment to my brisk walk. I was surprised that I returned yesterday, and this morning. I had fish balls, Rodic’s tapsilog, and instant coffee. And I had my fair share of sunshine, silence, and peace. It was the perfect way to welcome the new year, as I will literally walk to the beat of my goals. 

Girl at the Museum

I visited the National Museum the other day to appreciate beautiful artworks. The museum has been my sanctuary during my student days when I was still doing my majors for my Humanities degree. These days, I still admire beauty and I find having a sense of wonder on sublime pieces a refreshing respite from the busyness of the everyday. It was a lovely break from reality, especially as I was still high from my visit to Rizal’s grave. I was inspired to fill my 2018 with beauty, wonder, and a continuous hunger for meaningful experiences!

Do pay the National Museum a visit soon! Entrance is free for everyone, and it is fully airconditioned. You will get inspired and proud to be Filipino.  

At the Beginning

I am thankful to begin 2018 with a recap of my visit to the National Planetarium on Rizal Day. It was my first time to go there, and my inner science geek was not disappointed. I enjoyed the show (unfortunately photos were not allowed inside the theater) which showed stars, planets, and how unimaginably vast our universe is. I think it is fitting to begin the new year with a retrospective on how our universe began, on how small I am in the sea of stars, and how valuable our planet is because it supports life. I may not know what the new year has in store for me, but my path is in my hands. If our planet can hold its own place amidst our galaxy, then I will surely be able to evolve, grow, and thrive this year. It is a fresh beginning, and I am going to do everything I can to make this my year!

Luneta On Rizal Day

I am a Rizal fan! I think it comes naturally for me as I am a Humanities graduate. However, I have not yet been to Luneta to visit the Rizal monument. So, I was fortunate that we are in the country this time of the year and yesterday, I finally visited Rizal’s final resting place on the day of his martyrdom, no less! It was worth the trip, as I felt emotional to be close to my favorite hero. I even wore my millennial pink Noli Me Tangere shirt to show off my fandom to the world. It was a great day to be a Filipino, and I am proud to call our national hero my personal favorite. 

If you have a hero who inspires you to become a better individual, I suggest that you also make the effort to visit his or her final resting place. It will put things into perspective and it will also motivate you to aspire for greatness. It is worth the time and honoring sacrifices never goes old. Do yourself a favor and schedule it soon! 

Fun on Target

Yesterday, I had coffee with my college friend Mae. It was fun to have some time to catch-up over soy latte. I definitely enjoyed her company and I look forward to seeing friends like her again. 

Afterwards, I tried archery again. It was my second time to do so. My main objective is to have fun, so I kept on shooting arrows as I felt all my stress melt away. It was amazing how this sport totally made me feel that I could learn something again with ease. I enjoyed the vulnerability of being clueless about something. I am still learning archery, so I still have a lot of pointers to remember and apply. However, if fun is the target, it is easier for me to enjoy something. I look forward to my next archery session and I hope that I will also enjoy it regularly.  

Archery Noob

I have always wanted to try archery but I never had the time to do so. I was always too shy to try it out with a date, so I opted to finally take the plunge yesterday alone. I was able to get a private lesson from an instructor at Arrowland, and before I knew it, I was enjoying myself with my bow and arrow! I even got a bow with my lucky number 13 on it. Of course, I was a first-timer so my initial shots were not perfect. But I did manage to shoot the bullseye! Finally I have a sport that I really enjoyed playing. I look forward to practicing more and hopefully improving as time goes by. 

Here’s to first times and happy endings! 

Wednesday with Charlotte

I had a great dinner with my Canadian friend Charlotte last night at Sunnies Cafe. We got to discuss life, work, and plans for the future. It is fantastic to have friends like her who are goal-driven and have the same kind of ambition as I do. It is also valuable to have people who got my back. I am thankful to know her and it was a lovely Christmas dinner at BGC, which I rarely even visit due to the traffic.  

I even got to spend a few minutes browsing through Fully Booked, which is my favorite bookshop. It was nice to check out new titles to read soon. Surely, life will never run out of possibilities as long as there are books! 

Friends and books make life more meaningful. I hope to make more time for people like Charlotte, especially in 2018! Here’s to more girl time, risotto, and good reads in the coming year! 

Boxing Day 2017

Yesterday, I celebrated Boxing Day by myself. I got accustomed to going out on the British holiday, which was a habit I developed from my years working in an Australian company. I treated myself to a new water bottle from Starbucks, then I had lunch at Bonchon. Then, I watched Siargao  on a recliner seat. It was a feel-good movie with stunning cinematography. I capped off my day at the mall with my monthly pixie trim. I tried a new salon, and I enjoyed the experience! 

I look forward to more simple joys and me-time days. Surrounding myself with positive vibes is crucial to offset the negativity I have harbored in the past months. For now, I am breathing in the good and immersing myself in self-care.  

Blessed Christmas

Yesterday, I began my Christmas celebration at the St. Clare Monastery, where I made my weekly offering and prayed for all my intentions. I also expressed my gratitude for a wonderful Christmas with family and friends. 

Most restaurants are closed on Christmas morning, so I ate a hearty breakfast at a convenience store. I also enjoyed my coffee while reminiscing on past Christmas celebrations and memories. I later proceeded to my workout and danced my brekkie away! 

The festive mood carried over to lunch with my parents. We ate at Crisostomo and had dessert at Sebastian’s.   

Yes, that’s sapin-sapin ice cream! 

Christmas called for extra special cuddles with my furry family at Barkin’ Blends. My favourite dog Ella was taking a nap, so I spent the afternoon with Loki and Robin, who would not let me go home. 

I had a simple but joyful Christmas Day, and I encourage you to also celebrate important holidays your way as best as you can! I wanted to feel the warmth of my family and friends’ company this season. I look forward to celebrating the Yuletide festivities with someone special someday. For now, I am thankful for what I have, and yes, I feel so blessed.