Film, Self-Love, and Friendship

Last Thursday, I spent the afternoon doing things I love. I got a haircut from a new salon and I was satisfied with it! Trying out new salons fascinate me because I want to know where I can get the best care for my pixie. The latest one seems fabulous!

After my haircut, I proceeded to Cinema Centenario to watch Deadma Walking. 

It was hilarious! Joross Gamboa is my all-time favorite straight-actor-who-plays-gay-roles. He was amazing here. I am a babaeng bakla (girl who has a happy and gay sense of humor) so this movie truly resonated with me. 

I had to have a couple of photos taken by the Cinema Centenario signage because a) new haircut, b) new dress, and c) LOL movie.  

Then, I had late lunch at Bonchon for a Bibimbowl. 

I also finished Day 21 of this book after my meal. Yay! 

I also did some grocery shopping. The supermarket is a therapeutic place for me. I enjoy looking at different food items and toiletries. I bought this month’s needs (read: mostly hot chocolate and coffee because, priorities). 

Before I knew it, it was already time to meet my BFF Jay for dinner and chika (catching-up).  

It was our first time to try Botejyu. I had an okonomiyaki. 

And this was Jay’s sukiyaki. 

Everything was delicious! 

We then had dessert and I had to snap this pic of some pretty tiles we saw.  

I am thankful for my day of pampering, film appreciation, and catching up with my best friend. I look forward to more happy days this year! After all, there is still a lot to look forward to this 2018. 

Nawa

When was the last time you wore something that inspired you to be a fighter?

I experienced that when I purchased my Nawa bangles and rings. I received it the other day, and it honestly felt like Christmas all over again.  

My bling was packaged in eco-conscious materials and the rings were housed in this adorable woven pouch. 

I ordered three bangles because I already have ten Natalya Lagdameo ones, and I needed to make it a stack of thirteen (it is my lucky number). I also got rings, because I thought it was cool to have stacks on both my wrist and finger. 

Nawa donates to the Lake Sebu School of Living Traditions (SLT) with every purchase. 

I feel thankful that I selected these bangles and rings for my Valentine’s gift to self this 2018. It is a gift that gives back to the T’boli tribe in South Cotabato who created these bling. Also, their culture and traditions are preserved and kept alive through the efforts of SLT.  

Also, the girlbosses behind the brand (Timmy Potenciano and Jopie Sanchez) are rad and they are totally supportive of the community and their customers. I personally like how Timmy designed the jewelry to have rounded ends for comfort and ease of wear. Putting them on is a breeze and the quality is superb. The bangles and rings are lightweight and they have a modern look (Read: they are not your usual tribal jewelry!).

They sell individually too if you prefer ordering just one ring or bangle. If you want a full wrist of bangles, they sell stacks of ten as well! 

Nawa is your go-to brand for boho to boardroom jewelry- with a story to tell.

Not to mention that these babies are still minimalist enough to join a stack or blend with your existing jewelry without making you look tacky.  

Whenever I feel challenged or troubled, all I have to do is look at my warrior bangles and rings. I immediately feel empowered with my North to South stack, but I am more partial towards my Nawa pieces because they are social enterprise-made (handmade by Filipino craftspeople) and inspired by centuries of rich T’boli heritage. 

It is my turn now to go further in life and continue being a fighter, with meaningful bling to boot! 

National Museum of Anthropology

I visited the National Museum of Natural Anthropology in Manila the other day. I had a free afternoon, and I was eager to immerse myself in culture, local textiles, and traditions. 

I am partial to local textiles, so it was a delight to see different kinds of woven masterpieces from various regions. I was also able to see the Laguna Copperplate in person for the first time. 

I am a firm believer of experiential learning. Museums make me learn more than books or documentaries because I get to appreciate artifacts and artworks in the flesh.

As always, I took photos to document my visit. I hope that they will inspire you to also visit this beautiful museum soon. Admission is free, so bring the whole family- or go there by yourself, just like I did! It’s therapeutic. 

I hope you will appreciate local cultures and traditions too this 2018! 

Papemelroti Artisan’s Workshop

Yesterday, I spent the afternoon crafting, making, and simply being myself. 

I dropped by the newly opened Papemelroti Artisan’s Workshop to chill out and get lost in arts and crafts. I was eager to take a break from reality, and I was not disappointed at all.  

I was lucky to find a parking slot in front of the Korben Building. I was able to look around the Papemelroti Flagship Store at the ground floor, where handmade goodies were on display.  

I am a huge fan of Papemelroti merchandise because they are locally made and most of them are crafted by artisans in need (their accessories are made by the Kidney Friends Foundation members).  

The second floor houses racks of vintage clothing which are in good condition! Proceeds from the sales of these clean thrifted fashion go to charity.  

The clothes are affordable and most of them are branded.  

A few steps from the clothing boutique is the Artisan’s Workshop. I was greeted by shelves of kits awaiting customization.

I also found this napping area.  

This taka horse is reminiscent of the papier-mâché horses at Paete, Laguna. 

They have paper dolls in the workshop. Perfect for a nostalgic play session. 

The workshop is open from Monday to Saturday from 8AM to 8PM. You do not need to book or schedule a crafting session. You simply show up, purchase a kit, and pay the Php50 borrower’s fee for materials such as paint, glue, pens, and old magazines.  

The space is inspiring and it brings out the artist in you. Notice the natural light, murals, and handmade decor.  

The tables and chairs are inviting and I was excited to spend time crafting!

When I saw these papier-mâché sitting pretty dolls, I knew I already found my kit for the day. 

Their menu features affordable price points and various craft options for all ages. 

So I finally settled for a 2018 planner and sitting pretty doll as my crafts for the day. Yes, I chose two because, why not? 

I began my crafternoon at the stamping station which is reminiscent of similar setups at tourist spots abroad.  

I personalized the first two pages and I knew that it will be a productive session. 

I also got an old book so I could tear the pages off for decorating my planner and doll. As a bookworm, this broke my heart a bit. But then again, this is also eco-friendly. And words look pretty.  

I did my thing and enjoyed the sunshine on my window.  

I was assisted by workshop staff Lyn, who was not just a proficient teacher, but also a skilled photographer! 

I gave my doll magazine cutout hair and curled it using scissors.  

Before I knew it, I already spent four hours in there and I was done! 

Lyn was game to take photos of me with my crafternoon work.  

I was really into the taka horse.  

This place made me feel young, carefree, and capable of having a dream. As you know, one of my dreams is to live a handmade lifestyle. I think this afternoon perfectly upholds that! 

Meet my sitting pretty doll! I enjoyed decorating, painting, and styling her. 

I made her heart wings, which I later removed and turned into a separate decor for Valentines.  

I had a productive crafternoon and my journal is basically my vision board for the year. I pasted magazine cutouts, painted words, and placed stickers to spice up my days.  

Spot my creation among her sisters! 

By the time I was done, I was starving so I drove to Breakfast Bin Maginhawa for my favorite toasted naked longganisa with brown rice and sunny-side up egg.  

I had a gorgeous day and I recommend the Papemelroti Artisan’s Workshop for your next art session! Bring your friends and family. Or if you want to spend some quiet time by yourself, it is also fine! Then eat at your preferred restaurant. You deserve self-love and handmade goodness all-year round!

For the Love of Handmade

Last Thursday, I decided to take a P2P to Alabang to visit the Common Room & Co Pop-up and Common Room Store at Alabang Town Center.

I felt spiffy as I came from a conference at AIM so I had to take a selfie in the bus.

The trip was quick and I was there in half an hour. 

Finally, I was able to catch the pop-up before it closes on 31 January! 

I was giddy to be there as I am a huge fan/believer of handmade. 

I also had to pose by their most photographed spot.

Note to self: what if I fly? 

 Every spot is filled wih beautiful murals and quotes.

See how dreamy it was? This was why I made the trip to the south! 

I was there to look for a necklace and some Valentines gifts for my parents. 

They even painted on the floor and I was ecstatic to find this hopscotch setup. 

As a fan of indie sellers and locally-made goods, I stand tall for small shops! Also, handmade is better. Always. 

How cute was this tic tac toe setup? 

They had everything for every budget and style. These flowers look dreamy. 

I had to have my photo taken by this massive wall filled with Christmas wishes! Yes, these were actual wishes posted by customers and handmade fans. 

It was difficult to ignore the writings on the wall. 

Every time I purchase handmade, I feel as if my dreams are coming true because I have always wanted to transition to a buy local/handmade lifestyle! Supporting shops and pop-ups like Common Room keeps the dream alive and lets me buy from makers as well. 

After touring the pop-up, it was time to drop by the Common Room ATC shop. This one is a permanent location.

Like their Katipunan store, this also sports a dreamy yet edgy ambience.

I found Blue Flame Jewelry’s gorgeous display. I wanted to buy everything! But I decided to look around first.

This was Blue Flame’s sterling silver display. All her pieces are handmade. 

This was her brass and copper display.

Everything was beautiful and created with so much love. 

It was delightful to see Knitting Expedition’s shelf!  I already own their black dachshund plushie and I named it Ella after my favourite dog from Barkin’ Blends Dog Cafe. 

These handmade flowers are giving me life. 

I eventually decided on this delicate silver necklace from Blue Flame. I am partial to onyx, stars, and oxidized metal.

Isn’t it lovely? 

This sign is everything. 

I had my purchases wrapped and I looked around some more. 

This was my mini-haul: a Habil terrarium bulb for my dad, a pair of handmade earrings for my mom from Piesa, and my dainty necklace.

Of corse, I had to try the earrings on!

And then, I wore my new necklace inside P2P. It felt like a new beginning.

If you like handmade as much as I do, check out Common Room and support makers who create pieces with passion! 

January Coffee with Diane

Every month, I try to visit my late friend Diane at the columbarium where her remains have been laid to rest. I make it an event for the both of us. 

I started my day with an early morning walk.  

Then, I had a streetfood classic for brekkie: chilimansi (chili calamansi) pancit canton with a huge bun and sunny-side up egg.  

It was a breakfast that Diane would approve of. I eventually turned it into a pancit sandwich. 

I was still hungry so I had a small serving of taho for Php10. It was the perfect ending to a blissful morning meal.  

I wrapped up my walk and bought my favorite French Vanilla from a nearby convenience store. Diane and I loved to have coffee back in the day so I still continue the tradition to this day.  

I finally reached the columbarium. I set up a cozy nook in front of Diane’s vault.  

I usually bring an ebook or a book, my Traveler’s Notebook, and the aforementioned coffee.  

Being with Diane can be a time-warp as I enjoy reading by her side. 

I also share with her my latest food trips and sketches (which are usually of food).  

I also update her with the latest on my life, my blog, and my fitness journey. She used to be a fitness buff at some point so I would like to think that she is cheering me on from wherever she is now! 

I read The First to Know by Abigail Johnson during my visit. The protagonist is a softball player who’s growing up and discovering love, and I think Diane would have enjoyed this too. 

I was comforted by a brown butterfly which flew in front of me as I was reading and sipping my coffee.   

Hi Diane! 🦋  

If you want some quiet time to read and simply relax, why don’t you visit your late loved ones every now and then? Turn it into a mini event so you will be motivated to do so. Who knows, you might also get to know yourself better through the loving gaze of your loved ones!

Drawing Deliciousness

I spent my Monday reading, working out, and updating my Traveler’s Notebook. I have previously shared how I was pleasantly surprised with my return to creative journaling, and it has sort of awakened my inner diarist again. It is a welcome change, and it is glorious to have my hobby back.

Since my mom cooked sopas for lunch (it was delicious!), I was inspired to whip out my TN (traveler’s notebook) and drew my yummy meal. 

Yes, I did have both coffee and hot chocolate! The rainy weather made me crave for comforting drinks, so I made both to satisfy my drowsy urge for caffeine and good vibes.  

My second illustration depicted my epic breakfast last Sunday. I bought bicho-bicho (traditional Filipino donut) and bananacue from a street vendor along UP Diliman during my brisk walk. You have to give it to them for their ingenious merchandising. 

I plated it this way at home, and yes, both treats were HEAVENLY and simply satisfying after a long workout.  

I am glad to be back to journaling. It has become second-nature to me again. Indeed, the best art moments are those which are spontaneous and unplanned. I look forward to more delicious meals and colorful illustrations ahead!

WanderCat

I adore independent shops. It makes me happy to explore small businesses and last Sunday, I dropped by The Wander Space along Maginhawa (I swear this street will always have a special place in my heart). I was planning to buy something handmade to add to my collection, and I was not disappointed. 

How dreamy is their storefront?

Their door was a gateway to a traveler’s hideout. It also houses a cafe which serves light meals like pasta, pastries, and strong coffee. 

I stumbled upon this adorable hand-knit beanie from String Strand Strund and I just had to have it. 

It is actually a kitty beanie!

Their shelves are packed with handmade pieces to make you look like the traveler that you are.  

Obviously, I couldn’t wait to wear my new hat.  

The have a teepee! And it’s for sale.

This is their cafe area. It gives me life.  

I enjoyed writing blog entries in the cafe as their internet connection is high-speed. Plus, their playlist is perfect for reading and writing. 

If you love local, handmade, and traveler’s souvenirs, do check-out The Wander Space. It will brighten up your day and wardrobe!

Women Leadership Breakfast

I was fortunate to have spent my Thursday morning at the Asian Institute of Management (AIM) for the annual Birla Breakfast Forum. This time, they tackled Women in Leadership,  and they featured three prominent businesswomen.

I was excited for the event and it was worth the commute from Quezon City to Makati!

I started my day with a hearty breakfast and strong coffee. 

I am a personal fan of Ms. Xandra because she modernized National Bookstore (my favorite bookseller) through technology, social media, and author events.

It was refreshing to hear candid anecdotes from Mrs. Ramos-Padilla. I have captured some of my favorite lessons from her deck.

As I mentioned, the author events are a huge deal among bibliophiles like myself. I have always observed Ms. Xandra personally manning the event proper and delegating tasks to her able staff. She is a hands-on boss and the authors love her presence. 

The next speaker is the heiress of The CL Follosco Group. She is a fierce #GirlBoss with a lot of spunk as she is the only daughter in a male-dominated company (engineering).

I appreciated Mrs. Follosco-Bautista’s sharing of her family life and values. 

It was evident that she works hard and never loses sight of both her priorities and the company’s goals. 

The last speaker was Olivia Limpe-Aw. She was funny, witty, and engaging! I enjoyed her speech and her deck was full of wisdom which could be used in the workplace and beyond!

I had an amazing time at the breakfast forum and I learned heaps from these women leaders. I feel inspired to be a #GirlBoss too and I will definitely apply all the knowledge I have gained from them.

MerSam

I have always wanted to visit Under the Sea Cafe because it is a MERMAID-THEMED CAFE. 

Those who know me well are aware of my enduring love for The Little Mermaid. Growing up, I wanted to be a mermaid. Little did I know that it was not really a legit occupation, let alone real.  

Fast-forward to the present day. Maginhawa, my favorite foodie district, now has a mermaid cafe. I just had to visit.  

I timed my lunch on a Sunday, when the area is less congested. I found nearby parking and ordered their cheesy tuna alfredo pasta with brewed coffee. My bill (Php200) entitled me to a pictorial by their dazzling ocean-themed wall in a mermaid tail.  

Their pasta was yummy and how cute was these fish-shaped toast?

Coffee was good enough to bring out the mermaid in me! 

I got to eat with a mermaid doll.  

Before I knew it, it was my turn to dress up as a golden mermaid! 

This mermaid sports a pixie cut and a sports bra. 

I was totally in my element.  

The shell was everything.  

I really enjoyed my visit and dress-up time at Under the Sea Cafe! If you also wanted to be a mermaid growing up, know that there’s a mermaid cafe within the metro to serve you. It is worth a visit. Oh, and you might want to come in a sports bra too- because some mermaids workout to get the body of their dreams!

Life is Beautiful

Ever since I committed to being self-compassionate, I have been searching for a new necklace to wear everyday. I am all for a tangible reminder of how precious life is. I have been praying for the right one, but I do have some preferences: 1) it should be handmade, 2) it should be locally-made, 3) it should withstand my acidic skin, 4) it should have a meaningful pendant, and 5) it should match all my clothes, including my workout gear. 

I was already willing to spend on something more precious when I remembered my friend Liza of Sam’s Lil’ Hands. She crafts beautiful halo necklaces in stainless steel, and one of her stockists is The Craft Central. I wasted no time and trooped to the shop’s The Block branch, where I found this chain and halo pendant. 

 La Vie Est Belle translates to “life is beautiful”. Liza had other mantras like “wanderlust” and “blessed”, but “la vie est belle” just clicked. I instinctively felt inspired with the simple quote. I paid for both items, and even bought an Arc de Triomphe charm for good measure (I later found out from Liza that the charm is not made of stainless steel, so it has been relegated to my key ring. Still, it’s French!). 

I left the shop feeling giddy and happy with my purchases. The best part was that the necklace fulfilled all my requirements. Plus, it was reasonably priced!  

I wore the necklace sans the Arc de Triomphe charm, and I wrapped the chain around the pendant like so to keep it in place. The necklace was able to withstand my acidity. In fact, I even wore it while working out and I never removed it when bathing.  

I also appreciate that it is handmade. I could see the love in the handstamped letters and rugged finish of the pendant. It truly fits my style as I am not exactly a dainty girl. I have a rather utilitarian fashion sense, but I do appreciate a nice French reminder that life is indeed beautiful. 

I do not own this business and I was not paid by Liza to endorse her brand. I simply feel happy with my necklace and I look forward to wearing it for years to come. If you need to reboot your life, find a mantra and wear it around your neck- or have it stamped on a bangle! Liza’s affordable and classy catalog will definitely have something that will suit your taste.  

Here’s to the rest of my beautiful and meaningful life!

UPDATE: I added another halo pendant and bought a second chain (a thinner one), also from Liza. 

The second pendant reads she believed she could so she did. I think it is perfect for me. Now, the pendants are back to back, with both sides reminding me that I got this. 

Toasted Creativity

Last weekend, I surprised myself by returning to creative journaling.  

Those who know me well are aware of my passion for creative journaling. I enjoy drawing and watercoloring my food, and I am also into brush lettering. However, some recent changes in my personal life have required me to step back from my hobby. I needed to focus on self-care and self-compassion first.  

I was not sure if I could draw and paint again, until I finally had the urge to do so after my killer lunch. 

I ate my favorite toasted naked longganisa from Breakfast Bin. As always, I had it with brown rice, egg, and coffee. It was heavenly. ​

It was also the perfect inspiration for creativity. ​

By the time I got home, I was itching to draw my meal. I retrieved my Traveler’s Journal, pens, watercolors, and waterbrush.  

It was time to journal.  

By the time I was done, I felt alive again.  

I am back, friends! 

I am no longer dormant. Here’s to a creatively journaled year ahead!

Launching the Weekend

I began my Saturday with a brisk sunrise walk at UP Diliman.  

The weather was cool and conducive for an early morning workout.  

I tried cheese corn for the first time at UP and it was delicious! Get the Php20 serving and mix the corn, cheese powder, and butter together until it becomes one gooey, orangey combo. 

It was an energizing brekkie. 

I went home to freshen up, then I proceeded to the Human Nature flagship store for the launch of their pollution defense facial cleanser. It was refreshing on the face!

And this was my fresh-faced smile.  

I also sampled the new Cashew Bliss butter from First Harvest and it was yummy, I’m telling you! 

We were asked to write down our pledges for the new year. I pledged to blog about Human Nature this 2018 and this entry is a testament to my commitment to the brand and its Pro-Poor, Pro-Environment, and Pro-Philippines advocacy! 

We toasted to success and happiness this year.  

Then, I had some sweet nibbles paired with brewed coffee. 

We were asked to wear something colorful, so I gladly obliged with my rainbow shirt. I have never felt more Rainbow Brite-ish in my entire life!

I enjoyed launching the weekend with good vibes and positivity. Here’s to more productive weekends and brilliant moments! 

Pasta and Pancakes

I usually go to Brewing Point Cafe along Congressional Avenue whenever I am craving for a generous serving of pasta. And they never disappoint! My favorite on their menu is the vegetarian pasta, which is a medley of colorful, tasty goodness. I do not even miss meat whenever I devour this. I finish it off with their Nespresso americano.  

For dinner, I passed by a nearby 7-Eleven and bought the pancakes and Fiesta Ham meal to go. I was not expecting it to be the bomb. So imagine my surprise when I finally microwaved it and tasted it.

OH MY GOODNESS IT ​IS DELICIOUS I AM TELLING YOU. 

Do not let the underrated aesthetics fool you. It is a beautiful plate of Christmas feels. I swear it is worth more than Php59. I will definitely order it again. ​

Oh, and I finished it off with coffee. Again. Because the best meals always have to be with coffee. ​

Faith and Arrows

I am the type of girl who follows rituals. One of them is my weekly (I try my best!) visit to St. Clare Monastery along Katipunan. I offer eggs and lift up my intentions for the week. 

After visiting St. Clare, I proceeded to DMZ Archery Range to shoot arrows. I liked their Gwen Stefani x Justin Timberlake playlist during my visit. 

Also, I adored my bow which had my lucky number 13 on it! 

I was able to have fun and release all my stress during the game.  

Archery also helps in improving my posture. 

I think I have a favorite sport now. 

I look forward to more routine days which in time will be productive habits. Mindfulness has taught me to pursue the good and the meaningful. I sure hope am doing a great job this 2018!

Gravy and Cheese

Yesterday was all about comfort food goodness. I finally gave in to my cravings and I am enjoying my favorite food, one day at a time. 

I had the chicken ala king rice bowl from KFC. I usually top it off with four pumps of gravy. Yes, four. 

Next, I had a cheesy binatog with salt, sugar, and milk. It was deliciously filling and at Php35 for the large serving, was a fantastic deal to boot.  

I watched The Commuter starring Liam Neeson and it was enjoyable. As per my usual custom, I enjoyed the movie with McDonald’s premium roast coffee. I do enjoy action movies so if you have anything to recommend to me, do let me know! 

And then, I had this glorious Chicago White deep dish pizza from Sbarro for dinner. This is how they usually serve it.   

And here’s how I enjoy it: with lots of oregano, granulated garlic, and chili flakes! 

Of course, I do enjoy food in moderation. I make sure to burn calories with exercise. Life is too short for boring food. Make each meal count and burn it all with a workout while listening to your jam! 

Sunrise Kabab

Yesterday, I drove to Mister Kabab for breakfast at 6:00AM. 

This was before my workout so I had every reason to satisfy my craving for their special chicken chelo kabab.  

I was eager to sample my all-time favorite food at Mister Kabab. 

This is how they usually serve it. 

This was how giddy I was to eat my usual again.  

And this is how I usually enjoy it: with plenty of yogurt sauce and hot sauce! 

It was worth the drive! And yes, I prefer to eat there very early in the morning so there are less people, less cars on the road, and most importantly, I am able to burn all that food throughout the day! 

If you want to reboot your life, I suggest that you surprise yourself more with random treats. Take yourself out to brekkie. Listen to music or read a book while you’re at it. And enjoy it like it’s nobody’s business.  

Always remember that life is too short to live a blah existence. Go eat that breakfast you are craving for. You deserve it.  

Nourishment

I have always appreciated a delicious meal. I eat to nourish myself, but I also make it a point to make each meal count. To achieve this, I go for food which is both healthy and memorable. I also do not deprive myself, as I workout everyday and I need nutrients to sustain me. 

I have recently started eating taho again as a morning snack. It is satisfying after my brisk walk, and I like it warm and served with lots of sago.  

Another regular food I enjoy is Pho Hoa’s chicken vermicelli bowl. I eat mine with lots of sriracha. 

For a cheap and yummy dessert, I go for McDonald’s strawberry or hot fudge sundae. Both flavors complement their brewed coffee, so I often pair it with a large cuppa. 

Whenever I find myself at Cibo, I usually have the Farfalle alla Genovese. However, I felt like having my other favorite yesterday, which is the Penne Al Telefono. It is creamier, cheesier, and more gooey compared to the farfalle. However, it is simply as comforting as my usual. It felt like a hug from a close friend, or a shower after a long workout. Believe me, it is that good!

I will be eating more meaningful meals this 2018, and I look forward to sharing them with you via this blog! For now, I am looking forward to my next walk, my next breakfast, and my next cuppa. 

Here’s to staying hungry for positivity this year and beyond! 

Furballs and Faith

Last Sunday, I visited Barkin’ Blends Dog Cafe. It was my first visit for 2018, and it made me feel incredible as I missed my favourite dog Ella to bits.

Okay, I also missed their dark chocolate milk tea. 

Ella may not look happy but she was licking me before these pictures were taken. 

I’d like to think that she missed me too. 

Cuddling Ella (or any of the cafe’s numerous dogs) was therapeutic. That is why I keep coming back to the cafe even if they already moved to Cainta. 

The trip is always worth it. 

I get to hangout with dogs who love me. 

Each visit is golden. 

I will definitely be back, Barkin’ Blends! 

After playing with the dogs, I proceeded to St. Joseph along Anonas to visit the huge statue of the sleeping patron. 

I whispered my intentions and prayed that I will worry less this year, 

I had a great Sunday. I hope to enjoy more restful weekends this year and beyond! 

Anna and the French Kiss x Crepe

When was the last time that you ate something because you were hungry from reading about a particular food? 

I reread Anna and the French Kiss by Stephanie Perkins yesterday to celebrate my recent trip to Kilometer Zero in Manila (Point Zero in Paris was a crucial scene in the book). The novel had scenes of the characters eating crepes, so the next step was for me to actually eat one too. 

No, I did not go to Cafe Breton or La Creperie (my usuals for crepe). Instead, I went to Crazy Crepes and ordered the cappuccino with cookies and cream ice cream. ​

It was delicious! It was crunchy, ooey, gooey, and satisfying. ​

Now, what would my next book food be? I can’t wait to find out!​