Refilling Hearts

Yesterday, I attended the launch of the refilling station for home care products at the Human Nature flagship store. I was eager to witness this important milestone for our company. 

In case you missed it, I sell Human Nature products through my online store! Please support me while also helping the communities that are assisted with livelihood and skills training by the company. Every purchase counts as you switch to natural personal and home care products!

As always, every Human Nature event is an opportunity to catch up with fellow dealers turned friends, such as Kristel.  

I joined some games to get the party started. We were asked what we will do if we were given Php1M, and we told the crowd that we will train communities to create livelihood opportunities and multiply that impact across the country, similar to what Human Nature is already doing. We can even theoretically collaborate with them!

Of course, the event is not all fun and games. The environment urgently needs our help in conserving finite resources and living sustainably, that’s why I brought my helper Racquel with me. It is important that my staff also knows about this cause, and that she sees firsthand how this advocacy is translated into a practical solution, such as our new refilling station. It also matters to me that she witnesses what I do for a living (while I also work freelance and search for corporate employment). It is my hope that she lives more sustainably as well after hearing the speeches on that day. 

I saw more friends in the Core Advocate group, which is comprised of long-time dealers who have taken time to take the advocacy through the next level. Maque and Lei have been with me during a community breakfast with the flagship store’s neighbors last year, and we have also joined a community immersion at the GK Enchanted Farm last February.  

We had our fill of coffee and pastries as we witnessed this milestone. 

Megs and Ate Rhea have become my friends through the years. They are sone of the reasons why Human Nature continues to grow. 

Ate Yla has been managing the flagship store and has turned it into a powerhouse of social enterprise. She has also become a dear friend. 

Here we are with our president Anna Meloto-Wilk, who empowered us all with a heartfelt speech on saving Mother Nature in our own little way and still selling quality natural products. Her own journey into sustainability in her own home (as a wife and mum of six kids) and in her job was not easy, but it  eventually became a conscious choice.

I am so proud of Human Nature, and I am honored to be one its core advocates who share the goodness with each sale. 

I hope that you, dear reader, will continue to support me and my Human Nature online store! Our company continues to change lives and lead by example in the industry.

Here’s to more years of sustainability and success!

Rafe x Bench 2019

Yesterday was a beautiful one for a fashion show! I went to Day 1 of the Bench Fashion Week Spring/Summer 2019 presentation at Bench Tower to see the trends of the season.  

It was a proud moment for me as well because my designer friend Rafe New York designed a special collab with Bench, just in time for the summer. 

His collection is marked by bold colors and gumamela prints which are perfect for day-to-night styling. 

His clothes also have an androgynous feel, and they also look and feel timeless. 

I am happy that Rafe continues to make a stylish impact in the Philippines, and the world. His designs are wearable but still stunning. I can’t wait to see how his new collection will translate to everyday wear. 

I had a fun time watching the show and buying key pieces from the collection for me and my family. 

It was a treat to see local celebrities on the runway! Gabbi Garcia was stunning in Rafe’s clothes. 

Kisses Delavin made the gumamela print preppy. 

Juliana Gomez was a refreshing presence with her cool swagger. 

I couldn’t be happier with the casual vibe of the collab!  

It was also a treat to meet social media fashion icon Lolandrogynous in the audience. 

And I got to have a photo with local sweetheart Kim Chiu. 

It was an unforgettable night, and I love Rafe’s inimitable talent. 

Here’s to more style stories to come!

Common Ground

Last March 28, I got to witness the opening of Common Ground , a ceramic art collaboration of Israel and the Philippines. It was held at the UP College of Fine Arts (UPCFA). 

It was my first time at the beautiful new building of the UPCFA. It was the perfect venue to showcase the exhibit, which was the culmination of a week-long partnership between noted Israeli ceramic artist Roy Maayan and the UPCFA students. The college is planning to institute a multi-disciplinary Ceramic Arts Program as a new minor in the future, and this collaboration is in line with that vision. 

The Embassy of Israel has been a cultural partner of the UPCFA, and this collaboration has not only benefited the students and the artist himself, but also the public at large. The exhibit is just the beginning of a visual conversation between the Israel and the Philippines through ceramic arts. 

Jezzel Wee, one of the artists in the exhibit, hosted the event and brought a youthful vibe to the evening. 

Dean Leonardo C. Rosete welcomed everyone by saying that ceramics are “vessels of cultural exchange”. The masterclasses and open studio which was shared by the guest artist and the students has created an environment where art could be created and cultural ties could be strengthened.  

To continue with the theme of cultural exchange, the Israeli Ambassador to the Philippines, H.E. Rafael Harpaz has mentioned in his speech that he made ceramics as a child. His early exposure to the arts has led him to seek “culture as the highest form of satisfaction” amidst his hectic schedule and diplomatic career. He cited as an example of his visits to local tourist attractions and the simple joy of eating halo-halo in the Philippines as his introductions to our local flavors. 

Later during the evening, I chatted with him about his early interest in ceramics. He said that while he no longer practices it, he is still appreciates the art. He is happy to continue the long-standing partnership between the Embassy of Israel and the UPCFA to bridge our common cultures and inspire the future of Philippine art.  

The UP President, Danilo L. Concepcion (second from left), has also spoken during the event. He said that since assuming his presidency, he has declared that each new building in all UP campuses should have an artwork. He mentioned that the education of artists is important for our culture, and that international art collaborations is essential for the university. He thanked the Embassy of Israel and Roy Maayan for their efforts in enriching the UPCFA with this endeavor. 

The UP Kontra-GaPi performed lively musical numbers during the intermission. 

Lastly, Roy Maayan himself said in his message that he was happy to witness firsthand the talents and skills of the UPCFA artists during their masterclasses and activities. As an Israeli “Clay Ambassador”, he shares his rich expertise to students and artists around the world. He mentioned that he has found friends amongst the Filipinos he has worked with during this collaboration. I witnessed this first-hand as the warmth between the artist and the students was present. 

Finally, it was time to open the exhibit! 

Roy Maayan has used the Tembel hat, an Israeli bowl-shaped cloth hat as his cultural “base” for his works in this exhibit. 

He mentioned that he combined tuff, a volcanic rock found his his country to be combined with some of the tembel hats, like the two bottom hats in this photo. He said that tuff and clay both share common processes of firing in order to form hard objects, and this is something that he highlights whenever he goes around as a clay ambassador. Every culture has something worth exchanging and elevating into art!

Another Israeli element which Roy Maayan has used as a base for the exhibit is the matka. It is a wooden paddle which the UPCFA students has embellished with local elements, making it entirely their own.  

My personal favorite was “Hangover” by Blessi Bariuan, because it spoke to me about overcoming a night of drinking and paddling through to carry on the next day. 

Roy Maayan has given the students the freedom to inject local elements, while also contributing his own matkas with natural and earthy themes to showcase the commonality between all cultures: we are all made of the earth, and we can all collaborate together. 

The mix of students, faculty, the diplomatic community, the media, and art enthusiasts like myself has made the evening a memorable and fun exchange between two rich cultures. 

I was able to meet new friends from the Embassy of Israel, appreciate beautiful works of art made by an established Israeli clay ambassador and emerging Filipino artists, and witness the friendship formed over clay and culture. I am thankful that there are events that showcase the commonality that we all share in order to enrich our own respective experiences and perspectives. The future of art lies in collaboration, as the world is becoming more connected by globalization and social media. It is up to us to personalize the art that we make and share the art that we appreciate to make the world a better place to live in. 

Jude x Camillus

Yesterday, I went to Mendiola after working at The Study Workspace.  

St. Camillus’ heart relic was at St. Jude for one day only. I took advantage of this chance to venerate the relic and pray for St. Camillus’ intercession. I had my terminally-ill father in mind, my best friend Luti (whose rheumatoid arthritis is in remission), my friend who is graduating this June, my family, and of course, myself, as I endure the challenges of jobhunting and freelance work. 

Then, I proceeded to the Abbey of Our Lady of Montserrat to continue praying. 

The abbey is one of my go-to places for silence and reflection.  

Faith for me is an unceasing journey. I am amazed with how it is still strong amidst all the rejections and negativity. Prayer helps in reinforcing my faith, and it keeps me going. I am optimistic that I can be strong enough to carry on with each new day. 

The Study Workspace

I was invited to try out The Study Workspace, a coworking space by Enderun Colleges. It is conveniently located at The Podium, Ortigas.  

The Study offers the following facilities: 

 -Fast internet

-Complimentary coffee, tea, or water

-Comfortable sitting desks

-Conference rooms for rent

-Printing services   

-Free access to The Study events, and

-A great community  

(source: The Study Team) 

I occupied room M1, where I got to finish some deadlines, charge my gadgets, listen to music, and knit! 

The place has a lively hipster vibe which I totally dig. 

They also have books, a pantry area, a restroom, and spacious common areas.  

They also had good coffee.  

I enjoyed my stay here and I highly recommend this place for your coworking needs.

For more information, please visit  https://www.thestudyph.com/the-study-workspace/. 

Ortigas Meeting

I had a meeting this morning to discuss marketing trends with a company in Ortigas. It was held at Starbucks Tektite, where I used to hang out during my uni days. It felt nostalgic to be back! 

I’d like to think that I’m forever young, though! 

I will always be a nonfat latte girl. I also knitted while the meeting was ongoing.  

I got to meet Laura, one of my fellow listeners of the Wake Up with Jim and Saab podcast. She also participated in the meeting. I’m all for meeting new friends and connecting with like-minded people. 

Sharing my insights is rewarding and productive. I also get to keep up with current trends and educate myself in the process. Here’s to more learning opportunities for growth and advancement!

Village Girl

Yesterday, I had carbonara and an americano for lunch at my neighborhood cafe.  

I bought siomai from the cafe, and my lunch was complete! I enjoyed eating and sipping coffee while reading my book. It was relaxing, and I even entertained a phone interview that afternoon. I stayed in the cafe for hours, getting lost in my emails, book, and other tasks.  

It was almost dinner time when I left the cafe, so I bought a cheeseburger with egg and banana shake from the shack outside my gated community. It was my first time to explore that area since moving in our townhouse in 1998.  I was delighted with the cheeseburger and shake. I’ll definitely buy again.  

Lately, I’ve been exploring my neighborhood and going out of my comfort zone. I’ve learned that I can adapt well and appreciate simpler things. Most of all, I still manage to get things done! It’s fulfilling to help keep my family stay afloat amidst my dad’s terminal illness. My hope is that I will find a job and a good boss soon so that I can also find my own place in the sun. 

Simple Design

Yesterday, I started my day by dropping off some snail mail. As an avid philatelist and analog fan, I still send letters to loved ones here and abroad to let them know that they’re in my thoughts. Snail mail can never be replaced by email or instant messaging. There’s a joy in waiting for a letter to arrive, and writing one’s good wishes on paper. It’s a practice that I will continue observing even in the age of the Fourth Industrial Revolution. 

After my morning meeting, I had a simple lunch at Megamall. I had Kipp’s chicken burger steak and Quickly coffee 2 (it’s iced coffee with choco pudding). So good!

Then, I went to CITEM for a quick meeting.  

I am inspired by design thinking, so being in this office drives me to be a better problem solver in my day-to-day activities. I have attended CITEM’s design thinking conferences in the past, and my favorite was the IDC in 2017. I hope to attend more design thinking workshops and conferences in the future, and I am proud to see the Philippines excelling by design. 

I have a thing for doors, so I had to take a photograph before I left the building.  

My next stop was St. Clare Monastery. I prayed for work, more projects and partnerships, as well as for my terminally-ill father’s health. 

I capped my day by watching Samantha Lee’s Billie and Emma for the second time. I love this movie even if I am straight. It’s a simple love story that resonates with everyone. 

There is no better time for me to claim opportunities that are aligned with my values and ideals. At the same time, there will always be ways for me to squeeze in a film, some food trips, and prayer. Life is getting better, and I’m so in.  

Fuzzy Sunday

Yesterday, I got to spend time with my tiny doggo friends at Barkin’ Blends Dog Cafe at SM North Towers.  

My favorite girl Ella was there to play and cuddle over coffee.  

After my furry coffee date, I proceeded to Anonas to visit Cinema ‘76.  

I watched Five Feet Apart, a heartbreaking film about two teenagers with Cystic Fibrosis. 

I got to pray at St. Joseph’s Shrine before going home.  

Before I knew it, I was homeward bound. I got to hug some dogs, watch a movie, and pray. I had a lovely Sunday, and I look forward to having a variation of again soon.  

Passing It On

I received a thank you card from my World Vision sponsored child. J is now a teenager, and she’s an honor student. I am proud of my girl, and sponsoring her has given me a sense of purpose through the years. Even if jobhunting and freelance work has been challenging, I still feel determined because my advocacy for child sponsorship has given my earnings more significance. 

Twelve years of child sponsorship has given me an appreciation for my work, blessings, and voice. I am thankful to have made an impact in a child’s life. She inspires me to continue job hunting and writing stories. She may be thanking me for a gift that I sent to her last Christmas, but I’m really the grateful one. Because of her, I am motivated to create a better life for myself, so that I can continue sharing my blessings with her.  

I hope that you will also consider child sponsorship with World Vision today! 

Culture Finder

Yesterday, I saw some beautiful bonsai trees at an exhibit in my nearby mall.  

I couldn’t resist having a pic taken with them! They were gorgeous!

Then, I went to a meeting at Ortigas, the CBD where I want to work again. The location is convenient for me, and it is close to malls, my uni, and several restaurants. 

There were donuts at the meeting! I was gravitated towards my all-time favorite, choco butternut.  

The meeting was insightful and productive! I hope to interact with this team again in the future.  

I checked out the #DontTellMeHowToDress exhibit at The Podium. I was disturbed with the clothes, especially the baby onsie. These were worn by rape victims. This exhibit hopes to raise awareness regarding rape culture in the Philippines, and how rape is entirely the rapist’s fault. 

The new Podium is always a treat to visit, as there are many new establishments.  

Naturally, I found some pretty tiles to feed my floor fascination.  

Before going home, I dropped by Kipp’s Chicken for some old-timey friend chicken.  

Their chicken burger steak did not disappoint! It was delicious, and reminded me of vintage fried chicken. I will definitely be back!

And one for the road- I had my usual Assam Milk Tea at Serenitea. 

 Culture is everywhere. We just have to look and be attentive to exhibits that can educate us, and food that can feed our soul. 

Happy culture hunting! 

Presidential Car Museum

Yesterday, I spent the day exploring my local park. But first, I began my day with a hearty brunch of gyudon and milk tea coffee (yes, it’s apparently a thing!) at a Japanese restaurant.  

Then, it was time for some culture at Quezon Memorial Circle. It was my first time at the park’s newest museum, the Presidential Car Museum. 

The imposing modern building blended nicely with the park’s existing trees.  

I was in awe of the vintage cars inside the museum.  

As a history buff, this was quite a treat! 

It was also lovely to see stamps inside the museum.  

I enjoyed my time with the presidential cars, and I was pleasantly surprised to see cute souvenirs for sale outside. 

The souvenir shop also carried NHCP publications at reasonable prices.  

For my next stop, I went to Museo ni Quezon to reacquaint myself with the founder of my city.  

I was delighted with my history trip, and it was time to have a snack. 

I chose a coconut ice drop for merienda to beat the heat. 

Coconut House inside Circle sells local products made of natural ingredients.  

Then, it was time to go home, and savor the memories from my day tour of my local park. 

Having fun doesn’t need to be expensive! Sometimes, a trip to the local park can be an educational and enjoyable experience. Hopefully, you also have nearby places where you can enjoy an afternoon of culture and history! 

Healing and Hugs

Yesterday, I got to enjoy my day after my transformation of work conference at AIM.

I checked out the Peek-a-Book exhibition at the Ayala Museum for my first stop.  

Here are my favorites: 

Then, I got myself some milk tea from Teaberi. Their cup looks fab with my cozy from The Attic Yarn and Craftery! 

I went for some pampering at a salon.  

I got myself some trendy hairpins! 

I rode the MRT and the LRT.  

Then, it was cuddle time with my furry friends at Barkin’ Blends Dog Cafe Sta. Lucia branch. 

I ended my day with a healing mass officiated by Fr. Fernando Suarez. 

I prayed for my terminally-ill father, as well as for my jobhunting journey.  

It doesn’t take much to make me happy. I just need some art, hugs, and healing from the challenges that each day brings. With faith and positivity, I know that I got this.  

Future of Work

Yesterday, I started my morning with some taho! 

I was in a cheerful mood for my conference at AIM.  

The conference, entitled Transformation of Work in the Asia-Pacific in the 21st Century: Key Policy Implications discussed how the workforce should adapt in the Fourth Industrial Revolution. 

As a freelance writer and blogger, I am confident that I am using technology wisely in promoting my message of mindful living and handmade life. However, I am also jobhunting, so it’s important that I am aware of the skills that are necessary to continue being relevant in the workplace. I am happy that there are conferences like this, and that I am able to learn that soft skills are the key to staying on top of the automation of work.  

Ladies First!

Yesterday, I went to Makati for an event. But first, I dropped by the Washington Sycip park for some sunshine and good vibes. 

After my short walk, I proceeded to the Keds Ladies for Ladies event at Acceler8 by Unionspace. 

I won the entrance to this party through Human Nature, the brand that I distribute on my online store. Please buy and support me today by clicking here!

I was delighted to see millennial details like board games, greenery, and books. 

I met up with Anna Meloto-Wilk and Camille Meloto-Rodriguez, who founded Human Nature along with Dylan Wilk (Anna’s husband) in 2008. 

I felt inspired by simply being there. There were ladies from different industries in that room, and while it was primarily to celebrate a sneaker line, it was magical to witness women leaders speak about their journeys and battles.  

The grazing table was the focal point of the event as food naturally brought ladies together for some hearty cocktails and pica-pica.  

The event started with a sharing from Stacy and Danah Gutierrez of Plump PH. Their body positivity movement needs no introduction, but it was their personal motivations that moved me. They began their cause from their struggles with their weight and self-acceptance. Now, they receive validation from celebrities and global brands like Keds. They’re truly an inspiration. 

My Human Nature girlbosses Camille and Anna warmed our hearts with their selfless goals to provide jobs for fellow Filipinos and provide natural alternatives that even the average Pinoy can afford. They have acknowledged that while it’s not easy to be perceived wrongly based on their looks and gender (they both look young for their ages!), their hard work eventually spoke for itself.  

The Cosmopolitan Philippines ladies Jilly Gatcheco-Cantada and Retty Contreras spoke about building a better workplace for women. Their stance on collaboration and kindness built in me a resolve to become a compassionate coworker in my next job. 

Lastly, Gabbi Garcia graced the event. Her poise, class, and anti-bullying stance in showbiz gave me hope in a society that tends to pull women down. 

I learned to appreciate opportunities such as this event because ladies do really have a voice in society. While there may be challenges along the way, we can get through them together as long as we collaborate rather than be mean to each other.

I look forward to being a more empowered woman this year, and beyond!

Assam Milk Tea Vibes

Last Sunday, I started my day with some handmade accessories: my ceramic earrings from Maria Ceramika and my stainless steel and crystal necklace from Made by KCA.  

I was happy to spot some pretty tiles while ordering milk tea.

I was feeling festive, so I got myself some Assam Milk Tea with Pudding and Pannacotta. This drink simply reminds me of good vibes and simpler times. 

Then, I got myself a bracelet spelled g-r-i-t from Bedazzled Accessories at The Craft Central. It should remind me to keep going during tough times because I’m resilient and resourceful. 

It was day two of the Destash Bash at The Craft Central Cafe! My favorite yarn store, The Attic Yarn and Craftery had a booth there, where they sold affordable yarns and makes.   

I got myself this lovely cup cozy crocheted with love by Ceryl, one of the women behind this brand. I am thankful to have found this brand, and I look forward to more years of friendship with them.  

I also returned to Made by KCA’s booth at the bazaar outside Vertis North. I got myself a moonstone ring inspired by my undying love for Bella Swan of the Twilight books. 

I will forever support handmade because it inspires me to be a better person! I may not have much, but because I have grit and a good eye for local treasures, I know that I will survive anything that life throws at me. 

And at the end of the day, there’s always milk tea.  

Human Nature Summer

Last Saturday, I attended the New Products Launch at the Human Nature Store The Block.  

Please support my Human Nature Online Store! Every purchase supports me and my family. Thank you!

This is the brand’s first branch in a major mall and I’m all for it! 

I am excited for the Sunflower Body Scrub because I’m a devotee of their sunflower beauty oil. Naturally, their scrub will be just as nourishing!

Summer is definitely here and I’m happy that I have natural products to keep me fresh and clean without polluting the environment. 

Buy Human Nature products from me today and feel the difference in your skin the natural way!

Handmade Gems

I dropped by the Destash Bash at The Craft Central Cafe yesterday. I was looking for new stud earrings, and I was not disappointed!

Maria Ceramika had accessories that spoke to me. I love handmade earrings because they perfectly complement my pixie cut. The brand is run by emerging ceramicist Aileen Viñas from UP College of Fine Arts. I’m a fan of her work and I’ll surely watch out for her brand’s growth. 

I also dropped by my friend Jensen’s booth. She sold some cute trinkets at her booth. She’s my favorite Craft Central employee, and she knows all the cool handmade brands to watch out for. 

There were other booths in the Destash Bash offering affordable art and home supplies.  

I ended up buying a couple of ceramic studs from Maria Ceramika. 

Then, I proceeded to the bazaar outside Vertis North to buy a handmade crystal necklace from local brand Made by KCA. 

I already got a pair of dangling earrings from the brand at the now-defunct Wanderspace Cafe last year. This time, I selected a trio of pendants for everyday wear: aquamarine, peridot, and rose quartz.  

I love my new accessories! I always choose stainless steel pieces because I have acidic skin. 

Here’s the handpainted pencil case I got from Jensen and my new necklace. I love how the colors match- and how handmade continues to make me happy. 

I’ll forever be a handmade fan! Do check out these brands and keep on following my blog for more local discoveries in the future. 

Corner Pixie

Yesterday, I got a pixie trim from our neighborhood salon. I am happy that there’s a reliable salon just around the corner. 

I love that the stylist knows how to cut a mean pixie! It’s not easy to find a skilled stylist who can make me look pretty and polished with my pixie cut. Some stylists in the past have made me look boyish, which is why looking for the right stylist is key to maintain this wash-and-wear cut. I am glad that I found my match a few steps away from home. 

I also had a delicious kani mango sandwich and caramel frappe from the cafe in our neighborhood.  I am loving how close these establishments are to my home, and that my interests- monthly pixie trims and daily coffee- are conveniently within my reach. 

It doesn’t take much to keep myself happy and looking sharp. I know where to eat, go for a haircut, and how to live a good life without breaking the bank.

Here’s to more adventures just around the corner! 

Ella and Vivaldi

Yesterday, I spent time with my beloved doggo buddies at Barkin’ Blends Dog Cafe.  

I was feeling cuddly with my favorite dog Ella.  

I received kisses from Stitch the Frenchie.  

For snack, I had the Chocnut Dinosaur froyo from Elait. This is my new favorite from this celebrated ice cream stand! It is delicious.  

Then, I commuted to the Ayala Museum for a night with the Manila Symphony Junior Orchestra.  

I had coffee and knitted while listening to them play my all-time favorite classical piece: Antonio Vivaldi’s Four Seasons.  

To combat stress and fatigue, I find ways to keep myself happy. Dogs, ice cream, and classical music are just some of my preferred pastimes. Surely, I’ll find another concert to enjoy, and another afternoon with puppies.