Talangka Rice and Cheese

I decided to shake things up a bit when it comes to my regular toasted naked longganisa at Breakfast Bin. I requested for talangka brown rice instead of my usual plain one. I knew it would be delicious, but I was unprepared for the way it amazed me. 

It was the best longganisa meal I have ever had! 

For dessert, I walked to next-door neighbor Papa Diddi’s for another unusual ice cream combo. This time, I chose cheese closed and tsokolate de Cagayan.  

Again, I was unprepared for the deliciousness that ensued. The cheese chunks blended well with the strong tsokolate taste. It was a full-bodied ice cream experience I will definitely enjoy again. 

I still have more flavors and combinations to explore in my upcoming visits!

If you feel that there is something missing in your life, or if you feel bored, eat something new! It is inexpensive, nourishing, and great for your soul. Post pictures and share your food trips so that more people will be inspired to enjoy eating new treats as well!

Estate Planning Talk

I attended the Ayala Rewards Circle (ARC) Estate Planning Talk at Seda Vertis North to educate myself on managing my family’s estate. I was there early, so I was able to sit back, eat breakfast, knit, and enjoy my cuppa. 

I learned heaps from the seminar, and I am really cautious with how I manage my resources. I am conservative in terms of investing, as I operate with a Risk Management-orientation. I hope to learn more from future seminars on how to be practical and intelligent with estate planning, asset management, and resource allocation. 

April Coffee with Diane

Yesterday, I visited my late friend Diane’s vault for our monthly coffee date. 

I decorated her vault with rhinestone stickers which I bought from VC Trading. 

I was fresh from my workout and I didn’t have much time since I still had to prepare for a conference. 

I also showed her my current knitting project. It is in her favorite color- red!

Visiting Diane each month reminds me that life is too short. I have to do everything I want with the time given to me in order to maximize my life. Thank you Diane for always looking after us and for reminding me to live life to the fullest. See you next month!

From Alabang to Manila

I went to Alabang after my breakfast forum at the AIM the other day. I took the P2P to Alabang Town Center, and I took sips of coffee in my tumbler during my trip. 

I visited Common Room ATC because my visit to their Katipunan branch earlier this week was not enough! 

I bought the necklace and wood chips for my mom, who bought me so many goodies from her recent trip to Osaka, Japan. I got myself cord ties from Punch Crafts and a skinny brass ring from Blue Flame. 

I recently misplaced one of my Nawa rings, and I was eager to replace it with another locally-made ring. Luckily, Common Room has a handmade brass ring in my size. Blue Flame is also a brand close to my heart as I have previously bought a sterling silver necklace from this maker. 

I also spent some time at the seesaw outside the store. 

I took the P2P back to Makati. I checked out this Pia minaudiare from my friend Rafe’s brand. 

I was hungry, so I had a couple of silvanas from Dumaguete-born bakeshop Sans Rival. I had the butter and choco silvanas. Both were so good! However, I was partial to the butter variant. It was perfection. 

I then took a sidetrip to St. Jude to pray for my personal intentions. 

On my way home, I saw these K9 poodles! 

Here’s to more adventures in search of handmade, good food, and blessings from up above!

Business Insights Over Breakfast

Yesterday, I was fortunate enough to attend the BIRLA Breakfast Forum at the Asian Institute of Management. The topic was Traversing the Family Business Path: Insights from Non-Family Leaders. I was there early, so I was able to register and eat brekkie before the event began. 

The speakers were business leaders from the Philippines’ top corporations. 

I have learned from these leaders that trust is important in a family business. Non-family leaders do not necessarily have to use (and show) their talents all the time. They must be good listeners and balanced thinkers in order to win their employer’s trust and confidence. A family business cannot grow if they will not hire the best talent, and this means expanding beyond their family ties. It is also important to hire people with skills who could complement the family’s vision and values.

I have learned heaps from this morning, which I will eventually apply on my future corporate job. Most of my roles were in family businesses, and as a non-family employee, I did have to earn their trust by listening to their requirements and advice. I look forward to attending more business forums at the AIM.  

Pawsibilities

Yesterday, I had to attend to some personal matters. I knitted while waiting for my appointment. 

After my scheduled meeting, I went to mass in this lovely chapel. 

The weather was conducive for walking, so I took a stroll along Ayala Avenue. I chanced upon these sunflowers! 

I had my eyebrows threaded, and I was pleased with the results. 

Then, I went to Barkin’ Blends Dog Cafe to celebrate this day of possibilities. Here’s Forrest being extra clingy. 

The next clingy dog was Robin! 

He demanded for belly rubs, which I obliged. 

My celebratory mood was heightened when Ella was handed over to me. She’s my favorite dog, and yesterday was her fourth birthday! 

She is the sweetest chiweenie. 

We spent the afternoon cuddling and “napping” (at least for me). 

Being with Ella has reminded me to celebrate the small wins and look forward to the possibilities in my life. With a dash of prayer and a lot of pixie dust (I have the hairstyle to boot!), I am surely going to conquer greater heights, one day at a time. 

Common Room Katipunan Trip

I went to Common Room Katipunan after my event at the Ateneo Art Gallery to buy some handmade trinkets. I have always advocated  conscious consumerism by buying handmade and supporting local. So whenever I feel like shopping, I prioritize those that fall under these categories. 

Common Room is a shrine for those who love the handmaid lifestyle. 

They have a swing! 

Feast your eyes with all the handmade goodies inside the shop. 

I even saw some Knitting Expedition plushies!

The store also has a respectable leather goods section. 

I ended up with a coin purse, monogrammed cord ties, and a couple of pairs of basic stainless steel earrings. 

The store has an ongoing recycling campaign, so I donated the labels that came with my goodies. 

Buying handmade always makes me happy. There is a sense of fulfillment in buying from small, independent brands. I hope Common Room will have more successful years in business. And I look forward to going back to shop for more handmade goodness someday!

Ateneo Art Gallery x Elmer Borlongan

Yesterday was a series of field trips to some artsy places. I began my day with a veggie skillet at Breakfast Bin. 

I dropped by St. Clare Monastery to pray and give thanks. 

I then went to the Ateneo Art Gallery for an ArtSpeak featuring Mr. Elmer Borlongan. 

The Arete building was gorgeous. 

I was excited for the event to start, but first, I had to check out Mr. Borlongan’s ongoing exhibition in the gallery. 

I also checked out the various artworks which are permanently displayed in the gallery.  

Finally, it was time for the ArtSpeak! Mr. Borlongan introduced his wife, Plet Bolipata to the audience. She’s also an artist.  

He introduced her as his cheerleader. 

As indicated in my notes, Mr. Borlongan has chronicled the everyday and turned them into art. He has emphasized the importance of always bringing a sketchbook so that his drawing and artistic process never ends. He also chose to focus on the everyday as this is timeless and can surpass art trends and movements. 

I had an insightful morning. Thank you for inspiring me, Ateneo Art Gallery and Mr. Elmer Borlongan!

Coffee and Cheese

Yesterday, I had my usual toasted naked longganisa with brown rice and coffee at Breakfast Bin. 

I was feeling adventurous so I ordered a new dessert to end my delicious meal. I had coffee and farm cheese ice cream from Papa Diddi’s. IT WAS HEAVENLY and the combination was a true winner.  

If you ever find yourself in Maginhawa, remember this combination. Longganisa, coffee, and cheese will make your day! 

With Kate

I saw my goddaughter Kate yesterday and for a few minutes, my life was filled with cuteness!

Being with her inspires me to see the world with eyes that look for happiness and pastel colors. 

I hope to see Kate again so I can feel young and cute enough to be hugged by this little girl. 

Fear and Friendship

Yesterday was a fun one. I started my day with a visit to Philippine Artisan Trade, where I saw these cute plushies from Knitting Expedition. I knitted with them at Banaue last February, so it felt like a homecoming. 

Afterwards, my friend Luti and I settled down over Bukidnon coffee and cinnamon rolls at Hineleban Cafe.  

Hineleban was the venue of this month’s Word of Mouth night. The topic was fear, and I spoke about overcoming my fear of heights, being single, and expressing my feelings. 

I was grateful to speak in front of my high school friends Luti and Jamie. My childhood friend Chesca was also there. It felt awesome to have my friends with me.  

I love having different friends together!

We then transferred to Milky Way for some halo-halo and catching-up.  

I crashed at Luti’s pad for the night, and woke up feeling fabulous after being with friends.  

I had so much fun! I need more of this. Here’s to  more coffee and excellent company!

Spam and Pizza

Yesterday, I attended to some personal matters which required me to suit up on a Friday! It was fun to adult and explore possibilities for my future. 

I went to mass at Megamall Chapel for some thanksgiving and quiet time.  

I was pleasantly surprised to discover that they bless religious articles after mass. Any amount to be donated to Caritas Manila will do. I had my new necklace blessed. 

I rewarded myself with a flat white...

 ...and a yummy caramelized spam rice bowl at Sunnies Cafe. 

I spent some time at the mall and I had pizza for dinner. 

It was a learning experience for me to discover opportunities, blessings, and delicious food! Here’s to more possibilities ahead. 

Hello Good Vibes

Yesterday, I decided to let go of my fears. I realized that I cannot progress if I let my negativity hold me back. I have to keep myself open to opportunities by expecting them to happen instead of fearing them. 

I reflected on upcoming opportunities and plans over breakfast. Things really take shape whenever plan ahead, and it is always better to think when I am in front of comfort food. 

I had my toasted naked longganisa and read a book to ease myself into saying yes to the plans I have made. I have realized that I simply need to keep on going, as I am already in the right path. I just have to remain consistent and yes, more positive.  

I am excited to take on more opportunities. I will need plenty of coffee, prayers, and courage. I think I will be okay.  

Gino’s with BFF’s

Yesterday was quite memorable. I started my day with knitting and this chicken x mac n’ cheese dish at Conti’s. 

I had my usual derma treatment, then I knitted some more. 

Then, I proceeded to my BFF’s office. I liked the natural light during my ride.  

And I even got to enjoy some art since I was early. 

Then, it was finally time for dinner. We had this yummy burrata caprese along with pasta at Gino’s. I was with my college and high school BFF’s so last night was special. 

I was so happy! 

I had delicious craft beer too.  

Later, we watched Rent at Ateneo. (College BFF not pictured). 

We had late dinner 2.0 after the show, but we had no decent pictures. Nevertheless, it was great to have my two dear friends with me last night. More memories please! 

Trim and Pray

I enjoyed knitting while waiting for my lunch yesterday at Pho Hoa. I had chili shrimps with rice and as always, I enjoyed it with sriracha. 

I had my pixie trimmed at the salon after lunch. 

Then, I went to St. Clare Monastery to pray and give thanks. 

I always treasure days that are productive yet still chill. I hope that I will have more days which are a balance of leisure, work, and prayer. 

Back to Walking

I was feeling under the weather yesterday, but that didn’t stop me from taking a brisk walk at UP. 

It was a beautiful day for walking and jogging. I couldn’t resist the picturesque weather. It was therapeutic to do some cardio while listening to Top 40 hits.  

I had shredded corn with cheese and taho for breakfast.  

I was happy to workout even if I wasn’t feeling well. The sunshine energized me and gave me positive vibes. Whenever I feel down or under the weather, I find myself going back to walking. And everything just gets better from there.  

Sunday with Friends

I was able to spend time yesterday with my high school friends Luti and Mabs. We ate lunch at Japan Fudo Street. 

I liked my oyakodon as it was flavorful and filling.  

We bought drinks at Serenitea, where I had this delicious Okinawa Tea and Espresso mix. Yes  

It was so good! 

We then watched Never Not Love You on recliner seats.  

For early dinner, we bought Samyang spicy noodles.  

OMG IT WAS SPICY! But it was a memorable experience.  

I am thankful for true friends who are willing to enjoy new experiences with me. I hope to create more memories with them in the future. 

Swimming ‘18

I am not a huge swimming fan but I enjoyed my  swim at my high school friend Luti’s condo. It was fun to simply relax and enjoy the pool with my friends. 

We had a lovely staycation and I will forever cherish these happy moments. Thank you for having me and Mabs at your new place, Luti! 

Project Aral Flip Flops

I was fascinated with these flip flops and notebook sets at National Bookstore. I am a longtime supporter of their Project Aral campaign, where customers can buy kits to be donated to public school students. This season, they included flip flops in every kit. 

I hope that you will also donate a kit or two this summer! Let us help more kids walk with confidence this sunny season. 

Strawberry Ice Cream

These days, I usually begin my day with a workout.  If I am on the stationary bike, I like reading and knitting while doing some cardio. Yesterday was no exception as I read my ebook and knitted at the same time. 

Then, I had lunch with my BFF Jay, who’s a professor at UP. 

We went to SGD, where I had this yummy etag carbonara. 

And for dessert, I had this delicious Cordillera Strawberry Ice Cream. 

SGD never disappoints! 

I also got this magnet from my BFF, who was recently in Cebu. Thank you!  

I really want to have that carbonara, strawberry ice cream and SGD black coffee again. ‘Til next time!