Immaculate Conception Fiesta 2018

Yesterday, I joined my high school BFF Luti and her family on a roadtrip to Batangas. We visited our friend Mabs’ farm, and incidentally, their minor basilica was celebrating the feast of their patroness, the Immaculate Conception.  

We started our day with brekkie at Mc Donald’s. 

We visited the Minor Basilica of the Immaculate Conception at Batangas City to celebrate the fiesta. 

It’s a stunning church which really inspires the faithful to pray and give thanks.  

We stopped over at a local store to buy barako coffee and delicacies.  

Then, it was time for lunch at Mabs’ family home! 

Our high school friend Mabs and her family are now based at Batangas City. She works at the University of Batangas. Her home is charming and cozy. We definitely enjoyed our fiesta meal! 

We also got to tour their backyard farm and even pick some produce, such as pomelo, dalandan, and kamias.

We also got to feed fruit peelings to their ducks and turkeys.  

We got to take home some fresh fruits, and as a city girl,  this was a real treat!

I ended my day with a street food dinner at UP...

 ...and mass at Parish of the Holy Sacrifice. 

I definitely had a memorable feast day, and it was more special because it was spent with friends who are family. I hope that I will experience more feast days with fun company in the future.  

Barkin Blends at SM North

Yesterday, I attended the grand opening of Barkin’ Blends Dog Cafe’s second branch at SM North Towers. I had so much fun!

I was greeted by Finn the golden retriever. 

And I was drawn by their display of food for dogs! 

Yes, dogs! You can date your dog here!

Since it was their opening, I was treated to salted egg chicken wings and carbonara which are only available from their Sta. Lucia branch. 

I totally dig their inclusive restroom. 

Here I am with the owners, Ajie and Ate Tina, who have already become my close friends. 

Their doggo treats are reasonably priced. 

They also offer made-to-order doggo cakes!

Finally, here are a couple of pictures with Bern, the main girlboss begins Barkin’ Blends. She’s wearing my Christmas present, a cowl which I have knitted for her. 

I also got to cuddle their resident doggos, like my favorite Ella. 

Here I am with Stark the pomsky...

 ...Booster the Lhasa apso...

 ...and Stitch the Frenchie!

Here’s a sample of their doggo meal, the arroz  dogubana. 

Buchie seems to like it!

For dessert, I dropped by their neighbor, Elait. 

They are known for their deaf crew and frozen yogurt and custard. 

I ordered the strawberry mango cheesecake frozen yogurt and it was delicious!

Props for using local dairy, Elait!

I started knitting a new cowl while having coffee. 

Later that night, I had soup and fishcake from Korean joint Samjin Amook. 

I also had shawarma bratwurst and rice near SM Hypermarket. 

I capped off my day with Bayani Brew...

 ...and a 30-minute chair massage. 

I will definitely go back to all the places I’ve been to yesterday, especially Barkin’ Blends and Elait! See you again soon!

Future of Work

Yesterday was a productive one. I had a conference on Developing a Future-Ready Filipino Workforce for Competitiveness and Shared Prosperity organized by the Asian Institute of Management and Konrad Adenauer Stiftung. 

My key takeaways are: more than producing new jobs, employers must improve tasks in order prepare their workforce for the Fourth Industrial Revolution. Tasks which involve empathy, compassion, and human touch such as massage can still be handled by people. Other tasks such as training and manufacturing may be handled by machines and computers, but people are still the ones who think behind the process and operate them. People must continue to work together to build a more human-centric workplace in an age of automation and cloud systems. 

Before going home, I received kisses from this fluffy doggo at Vertis North. I don’t know him and his humans, but I think he likes me!

As I rejoin the workforce in the coming months, I look forward to lending my opinions, expertise, skills in communication, and thirst for knowledge in order to continue to be relevant in the digital age- and to still be likable to both people and dogs!

Work and Play

Yesterday, I had a meeting at Ortigas. I took the P2P going there, and I knitted while I was stuck in traffic. 

After my meeting, I had lunch at Sunnies Cafe. Half of the time was spent taking pictures around their interesting interiors. 

I had pumpkin purée... 

...Sunnies risotto... 

 ...and a flat white. 

Then, I proceeded to Barkin’ Blends Dog Cafe for some furry cuddles. 

I find time to knit wherever I go, eat at places that make me happy, and hug my furry canine friends. Life may be hard, but I have usual rituals that keep me going. Here’s to more yarn, coffee, and cuddles! 

Keeping Afloat

I used to meet my late friend Diane at Starbucks Gateway back in uni. We would meet here as this was halfway between my school, UA&P, and hers, the Ateneo. We used to sit by the window and admire the leather shoes and bags at PabDer. And our conversation flowed as our coffees got colder. We didn’t really mind, as we were there for each other. 

I miss her still. She passed away in 2008, but I still commemorate her life whenever I can. Yesterday, I knitted at our Starbucks (by the way, happy 21st anniversary, Starbucks Philippines!), while admiring the shoes and bags at PabDer from afar. It’s Christmas, and carols are being played on the speakers. My coffee has gone cold. But the memory of Diane continues to warm my heart. 

To cheer myself up, I bought a large mango float from popular chain Maxi Mango. It was delicious, as always!

Then, I lifted up my intentions at St. Clare Monastery. 

Adulting may be messy and unpredictable, so I keep my constants close because they help me stay afloat. I know that Diane is watching over me and our other friends, and that St. Clare is praying for my intentions.

I believe that good things will come my way very soon!

Staying Crafty

Yesterday, I claimed my blood test results from the hospital. I was surprised with their festive holiday setup, which added cheer to my day. 

Thankfully, my thyroid test results were good!

I celebrated with a stuffed crinkle from The Craft Central Cafe.  

It was the best crinkle I’ve ever had outside of ADB!

Then, it was time for me to buy Christmas presents at Human Nature. I also got a bag of garlic banana chips, which is a guiltless snack of mine!

After paying for my gifts, I sipped some coffee while listening to Christmas songs in-store. 

Human Nature still accepts usable toys to be donated to GK kids! Please donate your old toys at any Human Nature store. 

You may also support me and my family by making a purchase from my Human Nature online store. Thank you and God bless you! 

I went to Papemelroti to check-out their new stationery. 

I ended up buying this pocket calendar, which I need to plan my events and obligations on the go. 

It is perfect with my analog planning style. 

I took a Grab ride and knitted to my destination. 

Finally, it was time for dinner at Bonchon. 

And I was able to squeeze in some shopping at Daiso before calling it a day. 

I am managing my tasks one day at a time. I use tools like my handy analog planner, rewards like stuffed crinkles, and to keep myself afloat, I spend my earnings from my Human Nature online store. Please continue to support my business, so that I can carry on with life knowing that I am also helping GK communities with every product sold. 

The Active Foodie

Yesterday was all about simple joys such as food, fitness, and crafts. 

I had Potdog crab egg with garlic rice and sweet garlic sauce for lunch. Definitely worth the calories as this is one of my favorite supermarket fast food finds! 

After lunch, I walked to the newly-built SM North Towers to visit the newest Starbucks Reserve cafe. 

I was stunned! It honestly didn’t look like I was still in Quezon City.  

I had my coffee while knitting, and I was able to unwind.  

Then, I was able to buy these handmade polymer clay earrings from local brand The Baby Blue Bunny at The Craft Central.  

I ended my day with a sunset walk at UP and a simple dinner of cheese corn and Rodic’s tapsilog. 

Who says that I’m too complicated? I like food, coffee, crafting, buying handmade, and while it’s not pictured today, going to church. I burn everything I eat through fitness. And I keep the world updated through my blog. 

Here’s to balancing my life with each spoonful and step that I take! 

Dancing to Life’s Beat

Yesterday, I got to join an Aerosports Dance-Off at Quezon Memorial Circle. It was from 6-9am. I had fun!

My friend Cyndi was also there to dance.  

I rewarded myself with some knitting...

 ...and a bowl of yummy toasted naked longganisa with talangka brown rice for breakfast. 

I also got to see the first game of the Battle of Katipunan between UP and Ateneo. 

I was sad that UP lost, so I walked around the oval to comfort myself. 

I got home to a package of yarns that I ordered from my favorite yarn store, The Attic Yarn and Craftery. 

I’m glad that I was able to combine my passions for fitness and crafting in my life! Here’s to more fit weekends and crafternoons!

Friendship on Target

Yesterday, I was able to spend time with my high school friends. We held our annual Christmas gathering on Bonifacio Day because it was the only time that most of us were free. 

I got ready by wearing bright red lipstick. 

Our first stop was Arrowland, an archery range inside the mall. Here I am with Kai after she gave me her Christmas gift. 

And here’s all of us before our fun archery time. 

Then, we had snacks at Vampire Penguin, where I had this cheese and hotdog puff. 

I also had a cuppa to go with my waffle. 

We got to exchange gifts while eating merienda. 

We had more food afterwards, such as Cookies by the Bucket...

 ...oyakodon at Japan Fudo Street...

 ...and truffle fries from Potato Corner! Plus, I had an Okinawa milk tea with pearls and pudding from Serenitea. 

We ended the night by visiting Luti’s condo nearby and a group chat with those who weren’t able to physically join us. 

These friends have become my family through the years. I am grateful that we all meet annually, and that we still keep in touch. I hope to have more memories with these girls in the years to come!

Licks and Lights

Yesterday, I had fun with the furry dogs of Barkin’ Blends Dog Cafe.  

But first, I ate their Bonnie Burger for lunch. So good!

I placed my Knitting Expedition Tiyargo bag inside their locker and I was pleasantly surprised that it fits inside! 

I got to cuddle Ella and the other furry buddies at the cafe.  

Before going home, I was able to catch the Christmas light show at Vertis North. It reminded me of the Parade of Lights at Disneyland! 

I had a lovely day with some licks from cuddly dogs and ethereal Christmas lights before driving home. I hope to capture more holiday memories this season! 

2nd Dev Forum: Disaster Risk and Crisis Management 2018

Yesterday, I attended the 2nd Dev Forum hosted by the Asian Institute of Management. It was a day of learning and networking, but first...

...I had delicious Tapa Queen from Tapa King for brekkie.  

Then, I heard early morning mass at Greenbelt Chapel. 

Finally, it was time for my conference! 

My key takeaways are that we can only primarily rely on ourselves for help in these rapidly changing times, so we need to be prepared for disasters and crises. Shifting our mindsets and doing our part to effectively communicate what is happening will be helpful not only to save our own lives but to governments and NGO’s as well. 

It was an honor to be there again, AIM! Here’s to more learning opportunities to come! 

Justice for Women at the ADB

It was an honor to attend the International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women at the Asian Development Bank. I was also a guest at last year’s celebration of gender empowerment, and I was grateful to be there again to show my support for this worthy cause. 

I am humbled to represent my blog, and to be able to be at ADB again. 

The bank inspires me with its strong stance to further the cause of gender equality. As a woman, I am proud to be a guest at an institution that recognizes my potential in society. 

It was a treat to see this year’s Christmas tree at the library. 

And no trip to ADB is complete without a cuppa from Starbucks!

I was able to knit prior to the meeting. 

Then, I had lunch at the ADB Cafeteria. I bought pizza slices from Gourmet’s Cafe, which used to run the now-defunct Trattoria Gourmet’s at Shangri-la Mall. The crew from Shang were there, and they still remember me! It’s heartwarming that they still know me after all these years. 

Their pizzas brought me back to 1999! Still delicious. 

By the time the forum started, I was already full and caffeinated enough to listen to the esteemed panel speak about their work in fighting gender violence. 

The panel have all mentioned that shifting our mindset to be inclusive of all genders and to think of everyone equally is key to preventing gender violence.  

I am happy that I was able to make time for this forum because it has empowered me to speak out for women. I am using my blog not just to give myself a voice, but to motivate other women to leave their partners if they are abused. Together, we can build a safer society that is kind to all genders. It is my dream that I can continue empowering women in my own small way, with every blog entry and solo dining experience that I share!

Core Advocate Forever

I have been selling Human Nature products for five years now, and I have been an online seller of their natural products this year. My Human Nature online store continues to be a blessing to my life, as I am able to earn extra by selling products which I personally use and have transformed the lives of many Filipinos. Please support my store by making a purchase today!

To my regular customers, and to all of you who have made a purchase by reading my blog entries, thank you! It is because of you that I continue to believe in Human Nature and its effective products. 

More importantly, your support has enabled me to believe in myself. And because of this, I have supported Human Nature’s fundraising initiative for Marawi this Christmas. In exchange for my support, I received this beautiful bracelet by Silverworks.  

My life continues to be blessed, thanks to brands like Human Nature that allow me to give back with every purchase and product sold.  

Walang Iwanan! 

Leniency Program of the Philippine Competition Commission

Yesterday, I did my civic duty by participating in a meeting on the Leniency Program of the Philippine Competition Commission. It was my first time at their new HQ at the Vertis North Corporate Center, and I was impressed with their spacious and beautiful office.  

I knitted while sipping on coffee before the meeting. 

I learned that any business may avail of the leniency program in exchange for information on illegal practices by juridical entities. Former employees and agents may also voluntarily disclose information regarding practices which violate competitveness, such as price fixing. 

It is important for me to attend learning opportunities such as this meeting because I need to be updated with current trends and laws in the business environment. I cannot afford to stay complacent. Through my website, I am able to share what I have learned and network with colleagues in various industries. 

I am lucky to have access to conferences and seminars, and I look forward to upcoming events that will allow my mind to gain knowledge and insights. 

Steak Dinner with my BFF

I had a lovely steak dinner with my high school BFF Luti last night. We chose Steak to One because we also wanted to check out the weekend bazaar after our meal. 

We chose well! Our porterhouse steaks were delicious and even the iced tea was refreshingly good.  

For dessert, I had Malagos chocolate ice cream from Papa Diddi’s. 

Sometimes, we just need one friend who believes in us, and yummy comfort food to nourish us during tough times. May you also find that friend in your life, and may you continue to seek food that not only makes you full, but happy as well. 

Simple Saturday

Yesterday, I finally got to watch ML starring Eddie Garcia. It was uncomfortable to watch, but I was able to stay until the end! 

Also, I watched this alone so it was a milestone. I conquered a suspense film by myself.  

I enjoyed a burger with egg and walked around the oval.  

I attended anticipated Sunday mass at the UP Parish Church.  

And I felt renewed after a challenging week! 

Sometimes, the best things in life are right across our neighborhood. UP is just a highway from my house, and I find myself enjoying simple joys such as quality films and street food in its premises. I will definitely go back!

Thankfully Caffeinated

I have been helping my family recently with errands at home as one of our members has fallen ill with a debilitating condition. It has been stressful, but manageable. One of the ways that I unwind (pun intended) is by knitting at coffee shops. I find a bright, cozy nook and stitch away.

I prefer my coffee strong, and my background music to be upbeat! I also listen to podcasts when Top 40 music tends to be cloying. 

Knitting has helped me mend my broken heart and stay alert at conferences. I look forward to seeing how my knitting journey will help me power through this challenge that my family is currently facing. 

Faith, Food, and Film

Yesterday I had beer and okonomiyaki with an old friend. 

It was delicious, and it was nice to catch-up with old friends, as always.  

I walked around UP to burn my lunch.  

I went to St. Clare to pray for some challenges I am currently undertaking, and for the strength to endure them all. 

Then, I had strong coffee while knitting.  

My last stop for the night was UP Cine Adarna to watch Through Night and Day starring one of my favorite actresses, Alessandra De Rossi.  

I had junk food and coffee while waiting. 

And like most Alessandra De Rossi films, it was a showstopper. I enjoyed it, even if it broke my heart.  

Looking forward to more food trips, prayer breaks, and film nights in the future! 

Presents and Presence

I recently finished kniting this millennial pink cowl and started a scarf featuring multicolored yarn from The Attic Yarn and Craftery. It was actually a birthday gift from them, and it even came with this sweet card. 

I brought my knitting to a meeting the other day, but before discussing serious matters, I had lunch at the Human Nature Cafe, which is exclusive for employees. I got to eat there because my friend Cindy treated me to lunch. 

I had the all-heart burger, which is vegan and delicious! 

I knitted while waiting for my meeting to begin.  

And after that, I went to the Pink Sisters Convent to buy greeting cards! Each card enrolls the recipient in their perpetual masses.  

There are cards for various occasions.  

I capped off my day with a foot massage at my neighborhood spa.  

Life may be imperfect, but I know what my priorities are. While looking for Mr. Right, I am treating myself well and pursuing my passions, such as knitting! And of course, I’m grateful for friends who care.  

Sunshine and Street Food

The other day, I was at the Human Nature Flagship Store to purchase some personal needs. In case you missed it, I sell Human Nature products on my online store!  Please consider buying Christmas gifts from me. 

After shopping, I snacked on a pack of roasted garlic banana chips and brewed coffee. The store is a cozy place to hangout and clear my thoughts, and my snack was the perfect way to end a relaxing morning. 

I shopped with my favorite carry-all, my Knitting Expedition Tiyargo bag.  

Since it was a sunny day, I proceeded to UP Diliman for some brisk walking and street food!

My street food craving was intense!

I had egg sandwich...

...kwek-kwek, and pancit canton! So good every once in a while.  

It was a beautiful day for supporting social enterprises and satisfying my street food craving. Looking forward to more simple days that don’t have to break the bank.