The Force and The Furs

Yesterday, I tried a new waxing salon for the first time. It was a relaxing place to chill out while getting my grooming done

Then, I had Kipp’s Fried Chicken for lunch. Their chicken burger steak meal comes with macaroni salad that is reminiscent of kiddie parties. The old timey taste of the meal brings back childhood memories, which was perfect on a Sunday afternoon.

After my hearty meal, I went to the PAWS Pet Cafe at Vertis North. Their pop-up cafe always draws a crowd of passionate animal advocates. I attended their last day because I could not miss out on their Star Wars-themed costumes and intergalactic ambiance!

I had a lovely time with their Doctor Dogs, who are therapy animals at work. They visit schools, hospitals, and offices to spread positive vibes and good cheer.

They provided me with comfort and messy kisses! I already follow some of the doctor dogs on social media, and their daily photos give me positive vibes.

To learn more on how you can donate to PAWS, please visit https://paws.org.ph/!

Before going home, I had Cocina Peruvia’s chicken pasta in huancaina sauce. It was a flavorful party in my mouth! I will definitely order this again.

Furs, the Force, and food. Just three things that make my heart warmer on a Sunday. I can’t wait to enjoy more of my simple pleasures next weekend!

Charmed

Yesterday, I went to Binondo for a special reason. I was not in the area to enjoy sumptuous Chinese food because spoiler alert, I’m not a fan of Oriental cuisine. However, I do love to shop!

I reached Carriedo LRT1 station by lunchtime. Good thing I had a hearty brunch before this outing, so I was game to commute as there is no parking in the area.

It was impossible for me to be in the area without paying homage to the heritage street that is Escolta. I admired the bygone grandeur of the vintage buildings before proceeding to Binondo.

The beautiful Carriedo Fountain greeted me as I reached the area fronting the Sta. Cruz Church. It was remarkable to notice that Manila is already cleaner and more organized under the newly-elected Manila Mayor Isko Moreno’s mandate. I was able to cross the streets and walk along sidewalks with ease (compared to previous visits).

My leisurely stroll then led me to the Chinatown Gold Center, where I was welcomed by several stalls selling Chinese gold jewelry! My agenda for the day was to buy classy yet affordable 24K piyao (good luck) charm bracelets for my mom and myself. I originally watched a vlog about Covo 24K Jewelry on Princess Mendoza’s channel, and I could not get the bracelets from this shop out of my head since. I linked the vlog episode at the end of this entry to provide you with more information on this store. (Also, this is not a sponsored post!)

I chose a rose quartz bracelet for myself, and a black mantra one for my mom. The store is a goldmine (literally!) of dainty 24K charms, but I was already set on piyao ones to adorn our wrists. You can select the charms, beads or string for a bespoke bracelet or ring. Skilled artisans make each bracelet by hand while you wait.

My bracelets were completed in 5 minutes. I am happy with my purchases, and the shop owners are accommodating. I will definitely be back, as they accept trade-in of 24K pieces. They also do re-stringing and bead replacement.

Do watch the linked video at the end of this post, and visit Covo Jewelry one of these days! They have handmade bracelets for every budget and taste. 24K is a timeless metal that goes well with everyone. I can’t wait to wear my own lucky bracelet everyday, and I’m sure that it will bring me love, fortune, and positivity!

Innovating Myself

A few days ago, I attended the Innovator’s DNA Coffee Collab at the new HiFI Campus at the College of St. Benilde. I learned that the quality of the innovation is based on the condition of the disruptor. Having reflected on the discussion we had, I realized that I have a long way to go to be an innovator in this rapidly-changing world. But at 33, I am still hungry to learn and grow.

They say that it is never too late to follow one’s passion. As a writer and blogger, I get to attend various conferences where the Fourth Industrial Revolution (FIR or 4IR) is discussed. I went to school and graduated with a Humanities degree, but I ended up working in finance and risk management. To say that I veered away from my degree in the workplace is an understatement. However, it is only now that I am my own boss that I realized that I did not stay far from my degree after all.

My liberal arts education has helped me analyze and think critically in an age where specialization and practical skills are in focus. My drive to innovate has also led me to attend seminars, conferences, and learning opportunities. And amidst all the books I have read and conversations I have started, I know by now that I can never fully be an innovator unless I trust the process and surrender myself to the will of God.

To help myself in this journey to maximizing my skills and increasing my chances of succeeding in the current labor landscape, I have decided to answer the activity we have been assigned to during the Innovator’s DNA event. I had a buddy during that time, and he was an interesting conversationalist and professor. Now that I am accomplishing this assignment on my own, I hope that I will be inspired to never stop learning, and to find ways to reinvent myself in a limitless technological atmosphere.

1. What personal experience or journey brought you here, into your current role?

   I have been blogging for two years now, and I use my website to share the insights that I have learned throughout my learning and creative journey.

2. What issues or challenges are you confronted with?

   I am currently recovering from the recent passing of my father from a terminal illness. I am also looking for a corporate job while finishing my freelance projects.

3. What about your current situation (work/personal life) frustrates you the most?

   I am frustrated by the bullying I have received on dating apps. Guys there would call me “lesbian” and other derogatory terms just because I sport a pixie (no offense to gays and lesbians. There’s nothing wrong about being gay, but I’m straight.). I am also struggling to find a good man to date in real life because I am not the conventional Filipino woman. I have short hair, I think independently, and yet I am still a devout Catholic. Most of my friends are discouraging me from dating because I am disappointed with the dating pool. I refuse to give up, though.

4. What are your most important sources of energy and happiness in your work and life?

   I enjoy knitting and crocheting. Those two hobbies keep my hands busy as I feed my mind through books and podcasts.

5. Watch yourself from above (as if in the helicopter). What are you doing? What are you trying to do in this stage of your journey as an innovator?

   I am blogging, attending conferences, listening to podcasts, reading, and networking.

6. Watch our collective journey from above: what are you trying to do collectively in the present stage of your collective journey?

   We are all trying to connect with each other and hoping that these connections can go beyond social media and into real-life conversations that can spark lasting change.

7. Given previous questions, what do you now need to ask yourself?

   What if you fly?

8. Imagine if you could fast forward to the very last days of your life, when it is time for you to move on. Now look back on your journey as a whole, What would you want to see at that moment? What footprint do you want to leave behind?

   I want to see the exact moment when I decided to give myself the chance to learn more so that I can innovate in the age of the FIR.

9. Now return to the present and crystallize what it is that you want to create, your vision and intention for the next 3 months to 3 years. What are the essential core elements of the future that you want to create in your personal, professional, and social life? Describe as concretely as possible.

   3 months- I want to be a graduate of a short course that can increase my chances of getting employed by equipping me with the latest technological and soft skills.

   3 years- I want to be a manager in a company that enables me to communicate to others and provide empathy to our stakeholders. Also, I hope to be settled with a partner or husband while still continuing my learning journey.

10. What would you have to let go of in order to bring your vision to reality? What is the old stuff that must die? What is the old skin (behaviors, assumptions, mental models, etc.) that you need to shed?

    My fear of failure, my limiting belief, and my fear of technology.

11. Who have been your “guardian angels” and helpers in your journey and who do you need as helpers in your future journey as an innovator?

    I am blessed to have my family and best friends who believe in me when I tend to put myself down. In the future, I hope to have a supportive boss and husband who can help me maximize my skills. Most of all, I must never cease to give myself a seat on the table.

I am ready to take on the challenges that lie ahead. For now, I will take this learning journey one day at a time, as I innovate to be the best version of myself!

Innovation Journey

Yesterday, I visited the newly-opened HiFi Campus at the College of Saint Benilde. I was there for two talks: the Innovator’s DNA Coffee Collab and The Founders’ Journey to Impact Entrepreneurship Engaged Talk. Both forums were informative, but it was the first one that really resonated with me.

Ms. Judith Claridades hosted the Innovator’s DNA afternoon. We were composed of individuals from various backgrounds, age groups, and perspectives. We had an interest in how innovation and the mindset that commands problem solving through design can improve our lives and uplift our present human condition.

Ms. Claridades focused on the importance of the self in the innovator’s journey. Being self-aware is the first step in bringing forth positive change. After all, it is only by effectively improving our own selves that we can begin sharing our skills, talents, and ideas to help others along the way.

It was also worth noting that empathy is essential in innovation. We cannot influence others if we are stuck in our own worlds and refuse to feel the pain that others have. It was humbling to be reminded that innovation is not just an act that benefits our physical beings, but our spiritual growth as well. When we help others, we feed our soul, and this is how we leave legacies that make the world a better place.

The Founders’ Journey to Impact Entrepreneurship was also interesting as Anna Meloto-Wilk, the president of Human Nature (a brand I love so much, that I actually sell their products on my online store- BUY NOW!) was part of the panel. I’ll never get tired of listening to Human Nature’s story from its humble beginnings to being one of the leading social enterprises today. As a Core Advocate for the brand, it is inspiring to watch our president unceasingly sharing our values to audiences that need more goodness in their lives.

As a blogger and freelance writer, I am always looking for inspiration to improve my craft and grow my mindset. It is always a treat to feed my brain with stories that uplift others while discussing how problems were solved through design thinking and empathy. Innovation should not be a big, lofty idea that is beyond everyone’s reach. Rather, it must be something that we practice by habit and instinct with each endeavor that we tackle each day.

We can all be innovators, if only we are determined to share what we know and believe in!

Done > Perfect

I have been knitting scarves for more than a year now. I started this hobby during the Knitting Adventure organized by Knitting Expedition in 2018. Since then, I have not looked back, as this has also led to my re-discovery of crochet. I knitted during meetings, in between appointments, during my commute, and in cafes.

I realized that I worked well with scarves, so I stuck to knitting these warm, cozy things. I also knitted beanies in the past, but I enjoyed the mindless process of making scarves. Working on a project without thinking about it, yet still being able to focus on a meeting or a task at hand has enabled me to multitask, expand my intellectual pursuits (I was able to knit while reading books and listening to podcasts!), and keep my hands busy. I have also shared my hobby on social media and here on my blog. It has been a joyful journey so far.

As I share with you this newly completed scarf made from yarns from my favorite yarn shop, The Attic Yarn and Craftery, I hope that you will be inspired to find a hobby that provides consistent purpose and meaning to your life. The world is already stressful as it is, so a hobby or two that can be enjoyed without much thought can free up your mind to focus on work, schedules, and adulting.

I am a firm believer in the saying that “done is better than perfect”. Yes, my handmade journey is not easy (ex. I have to bring extra tools everyday, I have to learn how to budget my time, etc.), but it has simplified my life because it has expanded my mind. By enjoying a “mindless” hobby, I was able to have a growth mindset. By starting to knit, I got projects done while improving as a worker.

I basically got it together, one stitch at a time!

Summer Knitting

Yesterday, I knitted while having lunch and coffee at Summer Cafe in Coron. It was a ray of sunshine amidst the gloomy day.  

I ordered the cheesy omelette and americano. It was a delicious combination!

For dessert, I headed to Pedro’s Gelato, a local ice cream joint in Coron. 

I had the ube langka and mango sorbet. It was so good!

Then, I visited the mangrove forest near the Maquinit Hot Springs. 

It was fun to knit, be my foodie self, and explore nature all one day. Hope to have more memories with the things that make me happy.  

Coron Adventure

Yesterday, I conquered my fears of the open water and narrow caves. Coron brought out the adventurer in me and I enjoyed it. Here are some photos proving that my fitness journey is all worth it.

Here’s to more tours with Mother Nature to come!

Rainy Boracay

It was a rainy last day in Boracay. I worked out, ate breakfast, and enjoyed the rain along the shore. The beach is gorgeous and the view is unforgettable.  

I hope to be back someday! 

Boracay Day 2

Yesterday was my second one in Boracay. I enjoyed swimming in the beach and walking along the shore. 

I braved the monsoon to eat the famous piri piri chicken plate at Spicebird. That was delicious!

I also went back to a Boracay Leathers to buy a coin purse. I highly recommend this store for quality handmade leather goods. 

Later that night, my friend Pia took me out to have gingertinis at Aplaya. It was so good!

I can say that the island life is a relaxing break from the busy city and it was a privilege to experience it. It was also lovely to catch up with a friend. On to our next adventure!

Knitting By The Sea

Yesterday, I finally got to knit at Boracay. 

It was a treat to watch the waves crashing by as I stitched my scarf. 

I also got to buy functional souvenirs from local handmade merchants, such as Boracay Leathers. 

When it was time for a cuppa, I went to Real Coffee to sample their barako and famous calamansi muffins. 

I bought myself a personalized anklet from a handmade jewelry vendor. 

And even if I’m not into swimming, I enjoyed the remarkable white sand and pristine waters of Boracay. 

Getting out of my comfort zone is part of the journey. For every new experience, there is always knitting to keep me going so I know that there’s something to look forward to. 

Crochet in the Sky

It’s my first time at Boracay! I started my day with black coffee before boarding my flight with my mom and maternal relatives. 

It was a dream come true to crochet in an airplane. I enjoyed my leisurely flight as I hooked my way to landing. 

I even crocheted in the ferry. 

Boracay is breathtakingly beautiful! I can’t get enough of the clear waters and fine white sand. 

Our bedroom came with a teddy bear named Bogart. It was a fun touch that I immediately warmed up to. 

I can’t wait to explore the island more as I crochet, knit, and enjoy!

Sailor Mercury Sam

My cousin Carmel Lucas is a graphic artist and illustrator who does kawaii images of people. I recently commissioned her to draw me as a 90’s anime character, and here’s the result: 

She got my pixie and crystal glasses right! I love it, and it’s a dream come true to be a cartoon character.  

Please support her by commissioning her for portraits and illustrations! Her Instagram handle is @ame_senpai_art. You get to have a colorful portrait customized for you, and you will also be able to support an artist. 

Let’s all continue to lift each other up! 

Barkin’ Break

Yesterday was a beautiful day to visit my favorite dog Ella and the other flufffy doggos at Barkin’ Blends Dog Cafe. 

I received plenty of hugs while having coffee.  

Dogs have a calming effect on me, and I can’t wait to be back in the loving arms of these babies. 

What’s your coffee ritual? Mine involves dogs and furry hugs. Hope you also find your happy place!

Hello, The Unknown!

This week was particularly difficult. My late dad recently had his 40th day, and not a single paternal relative called to support me and my mom. This event has made me realize that I have no one to rely on but myself. I can’t care for my mom if I’m not able to be strong for myself. Thus, I am resolving to embrace the unknown and bravely allow the world to surprise me, even if I’m not exactly sure of where I’m going. 

I don’t know who this character was but I gladly took a photo with it. Later during the day, I learned that this was one of the Transformers Autobots.  

Maybe life won’t be so bad after all, if I was able to survive the first 40 days without my dad. It can even be fun, just like when I got embraced by an autobot.  

Stitch And Smile

Yesterday, I took some time to have a latte while crocheting. 

I slowed down to meet Power Plant’s friendly K9, Basha. 

And I also finished weaving this piece, which is my second one off the loom. 

Living slow doesn’t necessarily mean going off the grid. It could be as simple as quietly enjoying a hobby over coffee, noticing the simple joys in life, and weaving the ends of a project together. As long as I can stitch while conquering each challenge that comes my way, I know that I can smile through anything. 

Library Theater

Last night, I had the opportunity to watch a movie at the Ortigas Library. 

The library was my hangout when I was still in uni, and also during my time working at a nearby mortgage management firm. Their Filipiniana books are ideal for research, and their events are worth attending. 

I enjoyed watching Birdshot  by Mikhail Red! It was a thought-provoking film about a farm girl who unwittingly kills a Philippine eagle. 

After the film, I got to view their display of Rizal books. As a fan, I’m always drawn to these books, and I hope that more academics will research on his life.  

I want to support more events and gatherings in libraries because they foster community amidst books. We can also learn more if we will visit libraries and get inspired to learn, write, and share.  

I hope that this is just the beginning of more library events to come! 

Rizal’s 158th Birthday

Yesterday, I celebrated my favorite hero Jose Rizal’s 158th birth anniversary with my usual visit to Luneta. 

I also revisited my favorite works at the National Museum of Fine Arts. 

I will never stop being fascinated with our national hero and the artworks that have shaped our national identity. I am truly proud to be Filipino!

Supporting Makers

I needed a reminder to keep on making, so I went to The Craft Central yesterday to buy a “maker” bead bracelet from Bedazzled. Cath, the woman behind the brand, was my classmate at the weaving workshop that I recently attended. It was beautiful to meet another maker who was passionate about her craft, and was able to launch brands out of it.  It is through making that I also get to release my stress and apply myself through each chaotic day. 

By choosing to make over wallowing in self-pity and disappointment, I am able to overcome challenges and daily struggles. I know that I can continue being creative by also supporting fellow makers, and learning from their own inspiring stories. 

Let’s support each other as we make it through each day!

Motivation Mondays

Yesterday, I got to visit Clock In - Ayala Vertis North for the first time. It’s awesome to have a beautiful coworking space close near my house. It is also home to several networking events, which is also the reason why I was in the building. 

I was there for Motivation Mondays, a series of talks for yuppies on interesting topics. Last night, we discussed Goal Diggers. In line with the theme, we fueled up on delicious vegetarian food and coffee. 

The evening’s guest speakers were Maura Alvero of Vela Manila, and Fabien Courteille of Plush and Play. It was inspiring to hear about their stories of purpose and determination. 

My key takeaways were:

1. Become a platform for creatives- create a brand that will foster a community of photographers, writers, advocates, and target consumers.

2. Go on until your people don’t need you anymore- work until the people you train can carry on without you  

3. Start with why

4. Keep hobbies that can become your outlet

5. Be vulnerable 

6. Persevere for others  

7. Know what’s for you

8. Be open for collaboration

9. Different minds foster creativity

10. Get to know the people you are working with 

11. Cultivate relationships  

It was a different kind of Monday and I was happy to have learned insights from social entrepreneurs. I look forward to more purposeful Mondays to come! 

Father’s Hey

It wasn’t easy celebrating the first Father’s Day since my dad’s passing last month. I felt very sad, but also lucky to still be alive and able to commemorate an important day with my family. I spent time with my mom and maternal grandfather, and we grabbed lunch at a coffee shop that we frequent in his area. I had a beer and crocheted while waiting for our food.

Life is a constant battle against ourselves. I could have wasted the day and simply refused to commemorate my late father’s memory. However, I chose to get over my sadness and celebrated with my grandfather, who’s still alive.

May we never forget to spend time with those who are still with us, and to create meaningful memories.