Walking Well

Yesterday, I did some brisk walking around UP after lunch.  

It was a cloudy day, and it was perfect for processing my thoughts as I digested some carbs.  

After burning calories, I proceeded to UP Town Center. A couple of friends from school sent me this candid photo. I love it because I look self-assured. 

I was actually on my way to St. Clare to offer eggs and pray for better opportunities.  

I brightened up my day with a visit to Barkin Blends Dog Cafe for some cuddles with my furry friends.  

And lastly, I had a candy cane waffle from Waffable. It was a delicious way to end a lovely day. I am optimistic that I will be able to have sunnier days ahead, and brighter breaks in the future. For now, I will enjoy my downtime and remain thankful for everything.  

September Coffee with Diane

Yesterday, I managed to wake up and show up to my workout at my local park. I know that I routinely do this, but I was able to appreciate all my efforts to stay fit when I saw the Quezon Memorial in all its glory after a week of rain. 

It was beautiful in the sunlight, and I realized that my fitness routine does not lose its value just because I had to squeeze it in between commitments of late. Effort is effort. And just like this monument, I will remain strong amidst all storms because the sun will shine again anyway.  

I had a sinful breakfast of hotdog and eggs because I always eat with abandon before visiting my late best friend. 

And so I dropped by Diane’s vault and caught her up with the latest on my life. 

I may have had a challenging week but I managed to pull myself together. I worked out and visited my late friend. Strength does not need to be manifested in heroic deeds all the time. Sometimes, it is just a matter of knowing my priorities and looking back on my best friend’s life. I am moving on knowing that Diane’s got my back, albeit on a different scale. 

Staying True

Yesterday, I had a meeting at Cafe Mary Grace. As it is one of my usual coffee shops, I opted to change my order and try something new. I had their Spanish sardines pasta, and it was so flavorful. I will definitely have it again. 

I managed to crochet while eating and wrapping up my meeting. I have always advocated integrating my handmade lifestyle with my daily grind. So far, it has been a success and yarn can really open up my world to possibilities, thanks to the focus I gain from the repetitive stitches. Having a hobby can work wonders on one’s overall well-being, and I am no exception. 

After lunch, I bought my second cup of coffee because I felt that my cuppa from Mary Grace was not enough. I wandered into Booksale and I had a lovely time browsing. It really is a happy place for me.  

Staying true to myself is never a problem. I know myself very well, and I am able to live out my ideals amidst the busyness of adulthood. With that in mind, I am confident that I will be able to hustle with a heart and stay loyal to my tribe. There is no need to compromise my values, as long as I remain authentic. 

Rizal Park Hotel and Luneta

Yesterday, we celebrated my mom’s birthday at the Rizal Park Hotel. It was formerly the site of the Army Navy Club during the American period. Presently, it is a beautiful hotel with a sumptuous buffet at its very own Cafe Rizal. 

We enjoyed the food and the pretty ambience. I personally loved the pizza and desserts. It was also my first time to try chicken feet, and I was pleasantly surprised with its flavor. Coffee finished off our delicious meal.  

After lunch, we proceeded to Luneta to take pictures. 

I am grateful for the chance to enjoy good food and commemorate my favorite hero, Jose Rizal. I hope that there will be more opportunities for me to continue being nationalistic without having to take political sides. I simply love history and any place that will remind me of our rich heritage is definitely worth visiting. 

MIBF 2018

Yesterday, I went back to the Manila International Book Fair. My trip last Thursday was only ten minutes long, so I braved the typhoon to return to my favorite annual book event. 

My haul for this year consists of my Didache Bible reflections for next year and a bunch of history books. I had authentic pho for lunch at the Vietnam Pavilion and it was delicious! Of course, I took the chance to fangirl and take pictures with Rizal props. 

I love attending book events because I get to see like-minded individuals and purchase hard-to-find reading materials. I still have Goyo hangover and I can’t wait to read my history haul. I’m sure that I’ll attend more book-related events in the future, because these inspire me to tell my own story and speakoutsam!

ADB Transport Forum Day 3

Yesterday, I attended the last day of the Transport Forum 2018 at the ADB. I learned that people should see transport as more than just a means to go from point A to point B- it is actually the way to ensure that we are all able to show up to improve our lives and achieve sustainable development in the region. So aside from enjoying the delectable food and crocheting during the panels, I did absorb all the points presented by the speakers from the different fields in the development sector. I was fortunate to have been part of this event along with my high school friend Luane from UP Diliman. I hope to join more similar events in the future, and that I could also contribute to furthering the cause of sustainability in my own small way.  

ADB Transport Forum Day 2

Yesterday was the second day of the Transport Forum 2018 at the ADB. I continued learning on how technology is advancing the cause of transport efficiency in the Asia Pacific region.

As a blogger and daily commuter, I understand how simple posts online could inform others on traffic, train station queues, and safety concerns. I am more determined to continue sharing my experiences on getting from point A to point B to hopefully reach those in authority in order to improve our transport system.

I also got to attend the second day of the Manila International Book Fair. I was only there for ten minutes. I will go back on the weekend, should the weather improve.  

I am thankful for opportunities to learn and grow at the ADB. It was also fun to spend the conference with my high school friend Luane. I can’t wait to continue learning at the third day of the forum. 

ADB Transport Forum Day 1

It was an honor to be a delegate at the 2018 Transport Forum at the Asian Development Bank. I was inspired to learn what our leaders in the Asia Pacific region are doing to ensure that sustainable development is attainable through efficient transport for everyone. Through the talks from various panels, I realized that everyone has a dream, and it could not be fulfilled without a working transport system.

As a private citizen, I experience problems in transport everyday. Whether it’s the horrible traffic whenever I am driving, or the long wait for an MRT train, I am aware of the problems that our transport system is facing. However, I am optimistic that through public and private linkages, as well as forums such as this one, we will continue the conversation for a better way to transport everyone. 

It was fun to navigate the networking breaks with my high school friend Luane from UP Diliman. I also got to enjoy sumptuous food, and I even got to crochet.  

It was a lively series of discussions, and I am interested to know more about transport in Asia and the Pacific in the next couple of days. 

Carrying On

I currently connected this new ball of yarn to my existing pink cowl project. Crocheting has been a therapeutic hobby for me so far, and I find myself enjoying it even during events. I like how I am able to focus on my surroundings while still stitching along. 

As I connected the new yarn and continued crocheting, I realized that one of my strengths is my resilience. I am able to keep going even when the circumstances that I am facing are challenging. I find ways to stay centered, and I even enjoy the ride.  

I guess that’s why crocheting is soothing for me. Even when things aren’t going my way, I am able to savor the continuum and control my stitches. And will every project that I make, I see my strength reflected in the knots, the connections, and most of all, in the overall end result. Here’s to more connections and possibilities ahead! 

Second Time Around

Yesterday was all about seeing things the second time around. 

I started my day with a workout, and I was happy to finally see my abs again.  

Then, I had burger steak from Tropical Hut and a mango cheesecake blizzard from Dairy Queen for breakfast. 

I then proceeded to Cinema ‘76, a microcinema at Anonas, to watch Goyo for the second time. 

I chose to watch it in a microcinema because I wanted to experience the film in a unique setting. 

I also knew that Cinema ‘76 sold movie merch, so I got myself a shirt with all of Goyo’s battles on it.  

The small theater had beautiful sound and a cozy ambience. I enjoyed my viewing experience, and I will definitely be back! 

I also had a striking view of St. Joseph’s Shrine in front of the theater.  

It was remarkable how a couple of steps could adjust my perspective and present a wider range of the metropolis.  

I saw myself in Goyo, and I must say that after watching the movie twice, I will choose my battles more wisely in order to have better chances of winning in life. On to better opportunities from now on! 

I visited St. Clare, as is my custom every week, to offer eggs and pray for my intentions.  

And for the second time in a day, I had burger steak. This time, it was the bistek burger steak at Jollibee. It was delicious!

My last stop for the day was Barkin Blends Dog Cafe. I had the cafe all to myself as they just celebrated their anniversary weekend. As always, I had a relaxing time chilling out with the dogs over milk tea. 

I have a second chance at life after overcoming recent challenges. I know that it isn’t easy, so I am taking it one step at a time. Watching a moving film twice and cuddling my favorite dogs definitely helped frame things better. I am confident that with continuous discernment and prayer, I will always manage to keep my head above water.  

Self-Care and Coffee

Yesterday, I spent the afternoon for grooming and self-care. 

I started my day with a wax session at my usual place.  

Then, I had my pixie trimmed at the salon next door.  

I liked the female stylist’s take on my pixie! I will definitely return for another trim from her. 

Next, I had late lunch at The Round Robin Cafe. My main course was their salmon carbonara, which is my go-to order whenever I’m there.  

And for dessert, I had their delectable matcha cheesecake and latte.  

Self-care can go a long way in reinforcing my self-esteem. Whenever you’re feeling down, try visiting a salon and a cafe. Your mood will definitely be brighter, and you will thank yourself later.  

Kusina ng Kalinga

Yesterday, I got to join my fellow Human Nature Core Advocates in the Kusina ng Kalinga (Caring Kitchen) breakfast at the flagship store. I helped in serving cooked chicken soup and sandwiches to the nearby residents. It warmed my heart to be a part of this breakfast, and helping others is definitely one of the perks of being a Human Nature Core Advocate. I look forward to more opportunities to help others in my own little way!

Four Pawsome Years

Yesteday was the fourth year anniversary celebration of my favorite dog cafe, Barkin Blends. I attended their pirate-themed party and hugged the family- including the cafe’s human owners, who have become my friends through the years! Congrats Barkin Blends! I hope to witness more anniversaries with your cuddly dogs!

At-home Workouts

I’ve been busy these past few days with a conference, my blog, and getting work done. While these commitments already take up a lot of my time, I still make sure that I keep myself fit and healthy. I eat right and never skip meals.

Also, I workout at home if my schedule prevents me from joining my Zumba classes at my local park. 

I use my stationary bike to workout at home. While I am on it, I write blog entries, check my email, apply for jobs online, listen to podcasts, and read. I multitask like that, and I don’t let my to-do list hinder me from burning calories. 

I also follow Zumba classes on YouTube to workout at home. It keeps my body in shape and breaks the monotony of the stationary bike. 

Getting my cardio fix while at home is possible, thanks to my bike and the internet. I hope that you will also continue working out even when your schedule is busy. It is really all about time management. Discipline yourself, and find a routine that works for you. You will thank yourself later. 

ADB Digital Development Forum Day 2

Yesterday, I was at the ADB again for the second day of Digital Development Forum. I was privileged to listen to informative talks on how technology can further advance the growth and progress in the Asia Pacific region. 

I had Vietnamese sardines again for breakfast. 

The sessions tackled private-public partnerships to enhance the viability of tech in order to build smarter cities. 

For AM snack, I had egg and veggie sandwiches.  

The sessions resumed and continued to discuss how governments can utilize technology to streamline their public services.  

Lunch was another lively affair, and I particularly likes the lasagna.  

I took a brisk walk to the bank’s new wing to have coffee.  

I chose Bo’s Coffee because they serve local blends. 

I even managed to crochet while waiting for the afternoon sessions to begin. 

I appreciated that the afternoon sessions discussed how technology could be used to encourage stakeholders to scale up their businesses by utilizing online platforms and ecommerce facilities. 

For the PM snack, I had ADB’s famous crinkles and coffee.  

I definitely see technology as a tool to foster development in the Asia Pacific region. While it is not perfect, technology can do more good than harm. I have an online store myself, and I am proud that Human Nature has an ecommerce platform that allows me to virtually spread the goodness of social enterprise. As a blogger, I look forward to using my website as a medium to feature social enterprises, handmade lifestyle, and how I achieve my fitness goals. After all, my personal development is progress, and it is possible that I could inspire others to begin improving their own lives. This is why I continue learning and attending conferences, and I hope that you will also consider improving yourself by showing up to invaluable informative sessions such as the Digital Development Forum. 

ADB Digital Development Forum Day 1

Yesterday, I was able to attend the first day of the Digital Development Forum at the Asian Development Bank. It was a day filled with insights from leaders in both industry and humanitarian work.  

I started my day with a hearty breakfast of Vietnamese sardines and garlic rice. 

The ADB Cafeteria has a calming effect on me. 

I also came in a dress that made me feel empowered. Nothing like fashion to make me feel like I got this!

I learned heaps from the various sessions.  

It was also my first time to use a translation device. 

I had a delicious lunch, and the highlight were the desserts. I also bought myself a cuppa from Figaro.  

The Women and the Digital Economy in Asia and the Pacific was my favorite deep-dive session because it empowered me to continue thriving in tech. More women in STEM would mean collective progress in the region as we have unbelievable untapped potential among females in the region. Also, women and girls are already proven to be the community drivers in the region. To involve them in tech would mean that they have the progress of their respective communities in mind.  The success of communities then would translate to the development of nations in the region, and possibly across the world. 

I also crocheted to keep my mind awake. 

I had tuna sandwiches for afternoon snack.  

And in the final deep-dive session, I learned that innovation should begin in the executive level so that corporations in the regions will withstand the challenges of the changing times.  

I ended my day with a yummy dinner in the bank’s central courtyard. 

I had an insightful day and I look forward to the second and final day of the forum.  I am excited to continue learning and I hope I could attend more learning opportunities at the ADB. 

ADB-AIM Hackathon

Yesterday, I was fortunate to attend the ADB-AIM Hacksthon. The actual hackathon has already happened, so what I witnessed was the final pitches of the nine finalist groups. Also, this was the pre-event to the Digital Development Forum, which is scheduled for today and tomorrow. 

I had my traditional photo by the Asian Development Bank sign. 

I got to crochet at the ADB library after having nasi goreng for lunch at the cafeteria. 

I am always honored to represent my blog in events, and yesterday was no exception. 

I enjoyed these quiches and frittata during the first coffee break. 

I learned that a hackathon is a creative marathon that bridges tech startups and stakeholders. The goal is to solve existing problems through technology. 

I was amazed with the pitches by tech startups to solve health, ID, and KYC (know your customer) problems in developing Asia. 

For the second coffee break, I had ADB’s famous crinkles. I personally think that it is the best in the country.  

I also tried other ADB cookies such as ube and Chocnut. Both were also delicious. 

It was a treat to eat my snacks in the iconic garden, which is an oasis in the middle of busy Ortigas. 

I also got to crochet again while waiting for the next phase of the event. 

There was a cultural show, then it was time for cocktails and dinner. 

Their chocolate crinkles cupcake was the yummiest dessert I’ve ever had!

I had an incredible time. I look forward to the two-day Digital Development Forum, and I am excited to learn, interact, and network. 

Sunday with Ella

I enjoyed another Sunday afternoon with my furry friend Ella at Barkin Blends Dog Cafe. I got to unwind and relax while cuddling my favorite dog. It was also fun to hangout with the other dogs, such as newcomer Buchi the beagle.  

I will always be a fan of this cafe because of the lovable canine company and delicious milk tea. The owners are also good people. I look forward to my next visit soon!

Special Breakfast

Yesterday, I went to Mister Kabab for breakfast. I was hungry after my workout, and I was craving for my chicken chelo kabab. I gave in, and I really enjoyed it!

Life is too short for boring food. Switch things up and treat yourself every once in a while. You will find yourself looking forward to working out and eating right if you have occasional special meals to balance out your usual diet.  

Saturday Shopping

I love shopping because it helps clear my mind and it means that I get to buy my needs. I tend to buy Human Nature toiletries at the beginning of each month as it is when my bathroom needs restocking. Also, I still sell Human Nature goodies via my online shop. Please consider buying from my online shop as proceeds go to empowing Gawad Kalinga residents. Thank you in advance!

I also bring a tumbler whenever I visit Human Nature in order to enjoy their free-flowing brewed coffee.  

For brunch, I had my usual toasted naked longganisa from Breakfast Bin. 

And for dessert, I had Papa Diddi’s ice cream in ube and avocado rhum!

I later bought a new pair of platform Crocs, just because I never stopped loving the brand’s shoes. They’re perfect for Zumba. 

Lastly, I visited the Human Nature branch at SM North Edsa to buy some things that weren’t available at the flagship store. 

I had a busy yet therapeutic shopping session yesterday. I always bring a list of things to buy and I stick to my budget. That way, shopping is stress-free and fun. 

I hope that you also enjoy shopping, and I look forward to seeing you on my online shop!