Prayer and Luck

Yesterday, I managed to eat somewhere new! I’ve been hearing positive reviews about Sinji Dimsum at SM North Sky Garden. I ended up eating there primarily because of their interesting tiles. 

I ordered the truffle mushroom siomai rice meal and it was delicious! Their in-house garlic chili sauce perfectly spiced-up this dish.  

I sent a postcard via snail mail to one of my Human Nature online store clients after my hearty meal and coffee. Do support my entrepreneurial venture and click now to shop for natural and locally-made toiletries!

I also dropped by St. Clare Monastery to pray for good health, good vibes, and a fantastic job.  

Before going home, I chanced upon this auspicious dragon dance.  

I am optimistic for the future, and I can’t wait to see what lies ahead! With a little luck and lots of prayers, I know that I got this.  

Knitted and Crocheted Scarf

My friend Mitzie gave me some acrylic-wool yarn from New York when we saw each other last week, and I was excited to knit a cowl out of them! And so, on the feast of St. Blaise (patron saint of wool combers), I set out this yummy yarn together with my 10mm needles.  

I listened to some podcasts and just knitted away!

Usung chunky yarn and 10mm needles are a joy as my project was quick to accomplish.

For the blue part, I opted to use a 9mm hook to crochet instead of knitting. 

The end result is a variation of textures and yummy wooly goodness!

It was wonderful to knit and crochet this cowl while listening to a couple of podcasts. I’m also thankful to receive these yarns from a friend. I hope to continue making, knitting, and crocheting!

Pizza with Family

Yesterday was the feast of St. Blaise. There was a blessing of throats as he was known to heal a boy with a fishbone stuck in his throat. I had mine blessed after Sunday mass. 

Then, my family and I had pizza and chicken for lunch. 

My favorite from Shakey’s is the manager’s choice pizza! Hoping to have this again with my family in the future. 

Social Saturday

Yesterday, I bought my personal toiletries from the Human Nature Flagship Store. I also bought some orders for my customers. For all your natural personal care needs, just buy from my Human Nature Online Store! Thank you!  

I also claimed my Dealer ID from the girls at the store.  

I finally got my own Human Nature matte lipstick too! This is much talked about as the packaging is mostly paper. Here I am in the shade Warmth.  

I indulged in some pasta for lunch at the Vertis North weekend market. 

Then, I met up with my best friend Luti for some froyo at Elait,  

I ordered their strawberry mango cheesecake froyo and it was heavenly as always! 

We also had Fried Chicken Master. 

And for dinner, I had Kimchi Project’s kimchi rice.  

Life is always better with natural products, good food, and great company! 

SWS Survey Review 2019

Yesterday, I started my day with a P2P ride to Makati.  

I bought puto from the vendor at the bus station, and it was very good!

I went to AIM for the 2019 SWS Survey Review and it was insightful. 

Then, I proceeded to Barkin’ Blends Dog Cafe to play with my doggo buddies. 

I ended my day with some kimchi rice at the weekend bazaar near my parking space.  

I had a productive Friday which was a balance of learning, cuddling, and eating! Hopefully, I’ll receive more invitations to learning opportunities and seminars. 

Mentor and Manila

Yesterday, I dropped by UP to quickly print some documents for jobhunting.  

Then, I met up with my college mentor Mitzie for some Thai noodle soup at Sen Lek. 

We later had bubble coffee at Kape Tayo. It was good! 

We then parted ways and I proceeded to Binondo for a meeting. But first, I passed by Escolta to admire the heritage buildings there.  

I had an insightful meeting. I went home and received snail mail from The Pink Sisters Convent. 

I also got my yarn orders from The Attic Yarn and Craftery.  

And finally, I received a postcard from my good friend Nurai, who was on holiday at Cappadocia.  

I am very lucky to have few but well-meaning friends. I even have sisters who constantly pray for me. And I have a mentor who still advises me to this day. Here’s to a wiser adulthood and better decisions ahead.  

Risk Management Masterclass Day 3

Yesterday was the third and last day of the Disaster Risk and Crisis Management Masterclass. 

I learned that rather than have survival hacks, we must implement systems in order to reduce or contain risks during disasters. 

After class, I went straight to Barkin’ Blends Dog Cafe for some cuddle time with Ella and the other resident doggos.  

And for dinner, I had binatog! 

Life is all about the systems we put in place, and the places we go to in order to live to the fullest. Let’s maximize our resources and opportunities in order to create possibilities not just for ourselves, but for others as well. 

Risk Management Masterclass Day 2

Yesterday was the second day of the Disaster Risk and Crisis Management Masterclass series at the Asian Institute of Management. I had the Sicilian Pasta Salad with pesto dressing at Juju Eats to kickstart my day.  

I reached my destination in a heartbeat thanks to the improving MRT.  

A case study got everyone in the Masterclass awake and in high spirits for the information that was going to be imparted to us. 

I learned that there are careers in risk management, and there is a need for people to lend their expertise in preventing mayhem from ensuing before and after each disaster. Communication also plays a key role in improving systems in place and informing the general public. 

After the class, I went to Landmark Makati to buy some essentials for my family.  

It was nostalgic as my family and I used to shop for groceries here when I was a kid.  

I also went to St. Clare Monastery to offer eggs and pray for my special intentions.  

Again, the MRT wowed me with cool AC and efficient crowd control on the way home.  

I ended my day with some Fried Chicken Master!

I am thankful for yesterday’s learning opportunity, and I look forward to the last day in the masterclass series!

Risk Management Masterclass Day 1

Yesterday, I got to attend the first day of the Masterclass Series on Disaster Risk and Crisis Management. Before commuting to Makati, I ate my usual pesto pasta salad from Juju Eats. 

It was gloomy when I reached the venue, AIM. 

The classic staircase greeted me again. 

And I was welcomed by learning. My key takeaway is that disaster risk management should start at home and it should be a personal responsibility. Some examples of these are knowing earthquake safety procedures and converting to energy-efficient appliances. 

I had a productive afternoon and it’s always fabulous in Makati.  

I knitted during the P2P ride going back to Quezon City.  

I can’t wait to learn more in the coming days at AIM!

Rosario Yarn Adventure

Last Saturday, I went to Lacion General Merchandise right beside Rosario bridge in Pasig. You won’t miss it- it’s located on the corner unit of a pink complex. There are sacks and bags filled with yarns! 

I freaked out and wanted to buy so many yarns. But I resolved to only buy one kilo. This store is famous among local knitters and crocheters. Just search “Rosario Pasig Yarns” and you will know what I mean. 

The store spins their own yarn imported from Taiwan. You may mix variegated and solid colors, and each kilo retails for Php390. 

They also sell machine-spun shawls made of the same yarns. 

After searching through their bags and chatting with the owners, Kuya Miner and Ate Gladys, I finally selected five balls to consist one kilo.  

They recommend a size 4-5mm hook for their yarn. I am currently knitting using one of my purchases with a pair of 4.5mm needles, and the weave is so soft. 

I highly recommend this shop! It’s definitely worth visiting and the yarns are worth the commute. The owners are also kind and honest. Drop by soon! 

Manila CPO Tour

Yesterday, I joined the Postal Heritage Operational Tour organized by the Royal Postal Heritage Guided Tour Group. I am a philatelist, and I am fond of activities organized by Pilipinas Philately, such as the stamp forum that I attended last year. This was why it’s not a struggle for me to wake up early on a Saturday morning to join a tour in Manila. 

I started my day by having taho for brekkie.  

I rode the LRT, and in half an hour, I was greeted by old school downtown Manila.  

It was my first time to cross the famous Jones Bridge on foot. I was so giddy during this moment as this was a focal point in the movie Last Night starring Toni Gonzaga and Piolo Pascual.  

After literally crossing the bridge, I reached the beautiful Manila Central Post Office.

There were stamps for sale at the lobby during the event.  

Again, I was delighted to be there because the central post office building was featured in the film Hintayan ng Langit starring Gina Pareño and Eddie Garcia.  

Naturally, I gravitated towards Rizal stamps.  

I crocheted while waiting for the lecture to begin. 

We all received a welcome packet with some stamps! 

And I was happy to see a model of the Murillo Velarde Map, whose original I saw in person last year. 

I was especially drawn to the P.O. boxes as they had a classic vibe.  

Look at these doors!

This staircase is gorgeous. 

After the lecture, we got to tour the post office and learn about the operations of the government agency. 

It was lovely to be in the company of fellow philatelists.  

Our last stop was the postshop, where we all got to purchase current stamps in circulation. 

This is my haul. I got stamps that make me smile, such as valentine symbols and year of the pig stamps.  

I had the time of my life at the tour and I am looking forward to more philatelic geekery in the future! I hope you can also join a post office tour in the future. Just look them up on Facebook for more details. It’s free, and I’m sure that you will also have a good time!

Dogs and Food

The other day, I was determined to have a great day before my dad entered the hospital again (he is terminally-ill).  

I started my Thursday with a burger from this kiosk at the mall. It was delicious!  

Then, I got this postcard from Papemelroti. I sent it via snail mail to a customer at my online shop (please buy Human Nature products from me!) 

I spent my afternoon cuddling my favorite doggos at Barkin’ Blends Dog Cafe. 

Ella (the dog that captured my heart years ago) is an expert at cheering me up! 

Apparently, Ella and my new buddy Stitch are friends.  

Ella’s son Chocnut also offered his warm furry body for me to cuddle.  

It was also my first time to hug Raven the corgi.  

Yes, it was difficult to leave.  

I bought socks to remind me of my doggo friends wherever I go.  

Then, I got a honey soy refresher from Soy Yummy! It was really yummy! 

And for snack, I for Nacho King. I was brought back to my grade school days. 

And for late dinner, I drove to Army Navy (thank God it’s 24 hours!) for some adobo flakes. So good!  

It’s up to us to find ways to keep going amidst trials. We just have to find the perfect formula that works. For me, it’s doggo + food. I hope you’ll also find yours! 

New Wave

I felt like learning a new stitch this 2019, so thanks to YouTube, I learned how to crochet the drunken granny scarf.  

I used The Attic Yarn and Craftery’s Cotton Drops yarn and my Furls 4mm hook.  

I enjoyed crocheting this project because the stitches were very relaxing. Plus, I think it turned out nicely.  

I started a new project in the same stitch, and it has the same calming effect on me! I hope that you will also get to learn something new this year, whether it’s a new stitch or a new perspective.  

Strong Friendships

I received a care package from my college friend Alexis the other day. It contained goodies from her recent trip to Japan. I squealed in delight when I opened the bag, because they contained stuff in my favorite color palette! 

I am thankful to have few but genuine friends in my life. We may not have much at the moment as we are prioritizing the medication for my dad’s terminal illness, but I have priceless friendships that keep me going. 

Strong Stitcher

I finished the cowl that I was crocheting when my dad was diagnosed last October. I have stopped working on it because it reminded me of that fateful week. I continued making other projects (like my living coral cowl), but every time I would try to continue crocheting the blue cowl, I just couldn’t carry on. 

Finally, I found the courage to finish it yesterday, and I feel lighter and more calm. 

Finishing this project is a manifestation of my strength. I was able to overcome my emotions and carry on with the familiar shell stitches. As I was stitching it together, I realized that I’m stronger than I think. I hope that as I continue crocheting and knitting this year, I’ll be able to overcome challenges by thinking things through while stitching scarves into fruition. 

Memory Lane

Yesterday was a busy one. I had a series of interviews at Makati and Ortigas, and I started with the one at Makati.  

I took the P2P to get there as the MRT was already full at 6:00 AM.  

I had taho and crocheted for a bit to perk me up.  

It was a beautiful day, and I got to walk around the city before my appointment.  

I even got to visit my old office building, RCBC Plaza. 

I had breakfast at the convenience store that I used to frequent. 

It was nostalgic because I used to buy food and coffee here during my first job.  

After my Makati interview, I went to Ortigas by train for two other interviews. But first, I dropped by my alma mater UA&P. 

I had some documents photocopied at the library. For the second time that day, I was overcome with nostalgia. 

I had lunch at the cafeteria before proceeding to my two other interviews. 

I finished early, so I still had time to visit St. Clare Monastery to pray for a job and for more blessings for me and my family. 

And for dinner, I had sizzling burger steak, which is my weakness at the food court. 

Here’s hoping that I’ll find the right opportunity for me soon, and that I’ll be able to join the workforce again. For now, I am taking care of my family and not giving up!

Sunday Paws

Yesterday, I crocheted while waiting for my lunch at Barkin’ Blends Dog Cafe. I had the Bonnie Burger and a wintermelon milk tea. I missed this combo so much because food and milk tea are only available at the Sta. Lucia branch (I frequent the SM North Towers branch more because it’s closer to my house).  

I also missed the bigger doggos who are mainstays at Sta. Lucia. 

I also met Shadow, a rescued black Labrador who was abandoned at the vet. She was left behind after her original owners broke up. Now, she has a happy disposition at her new home.  

Another rescued dog is Potchi the pug, who has only one eye.  

All of their dogs are still so sweet and caring.  

I had some tokneneng (deep fried quail eggs) for snack...

...and some calamansi juice to perk me up.  

I ended my day with Sunday mass at St. Clare Monastery.  

Before driving home, I enjoyed a large cup of sour cheese fries from Potato Corner.  

Life is too short. We should make time to be with beings that cheer us up, for worship, and for cheat meals. Treat yourself within your means on weekends, and watch yourself take on the world during the workweek. 

Strengthening Myself

Yesterday, I drove to the Human Nature Flagship Store along Commonwealth Avenue to attend the launch of their new lipsticks! 

I was so excited to try these lipsticks. Matte lipsticks are my go-to makeup, and now I can finally buy this staple from my favorite natural store.  

The formula is matte, yet it glides on smoothly without tugging.  

And since my favorite shade is strength, I was chosen to represent it during the launch.  

I had so much fun! And I am sure that you will definitely like these lipsticks too. Buy from me today via my Human Nature Online Store! 

It was also a privilege to meet Sami, the daughter of my friend Ate Yla (she’s the manager of  the Human Nature Flagship Store). She’s a college freshman with a small business of her own. I supported her accessories store by purchasing some semi-precious stone bracelets for my parents. 

I also bought two bracelets for myself. They’re absolutely stunning! Plus, Sami donates part of the proceeds to charity. 

I later had a waxing session nearby.  

And finally, I got to have lunch again at Breakfast Bin. I missed their toasted naked longganisa with brown aligue rice. 

I had a day of natural pampering, wherein I was even reminded of my strength. I am strong because I can still show up and be there at events despite all the challenges that I am facing. I can still smile and wear lipstick. And I am still capable of supporting businesses with a heart.  

I hope that you will help me support myself and reach my dreams! Buy from my Human Nature online store today! 

Gotta Stitch

Yesterday, I spent the whole day caring for my sick father in the hospital. I brought my crochet project with me, and started to stitch with this lovely yarn in 2019’s Color of the Year, Living Coral.  

I ended up finishing the cowl before bedtime. I am quite pleased with this scarf because it features the shell stitch, which is a dream to crochet during stressful times.  

I love crocheting scarves because it keeps my hands and mind focused even if I am in a precarious setting such as the hospital. It is my wish that you will also find a hobby that will enrich your life and keep you going during the worst times. I found joy in crochet (and knitting!), and this is just the beginning of my maker life this 2019. 

Staying Real

Yesterday, I drove to a meeting near my house. 

But before the meeting, I managed squeeze in brekkie in the form of a coffee kick smoothie from Go! Salads. It was filling and delicious!

Then, I got a leather coin purse for my MP3 player and earbuds. I also got a couple of postcards which will be mailed to clients of my online shop (please buy Human Nature products from me). 

I dropped by the post office after my meeting to mail my postcards. These floral stamps are lovely!

I grabbed lunch from Falafel Yo!  

This Jesus diet thing is really uplifting. Instead of eating greasy food all the time, I am eating more vegetables and healthful meals.  

I also watched a movie starring Elisse Joson and McCoy De Leon. Sakaling Maging Tayo is set in Baguio, with some scenes shot in Teacher’s Camp, which holds a special place in my heart. I won a national award in extemporaneous speaking at CMLI (which was held in Teacher’s Camp) back in 2003. 

The movie was funny and entertaining. I highly recommend it.  

I had coffee at Barkin’ Blends Dog Cafe...

...where I bumped into my preschool classmate Veronica...

 ...and high school classmate Maja!

I later bonded with the dogs. 

I had truffle fries from Potato Corner for snack.  

And an Okinawa milk tea from Happy Cup to perk me up. 

Before the day ended, I had pesto pasta from Juju Eats for dinner. 

I like dogs, healthy food, simple local finds, and coffee! I hope that you will also find the things that make you smile.