Coffee with Clapton

Yesterday was my second visit to Old Congress Coffee. My first visit was a memorable quiet afternoon with Bread, so I savored this visit for another peaceful solo date.

Again, I crocheted while having my delicious americano. This time, I paired it with a slice of their New York cheesecake, which was yummy! I will definitely have this combo again.

This visit was particularly noteworthy as it was the first time that I listened to Eric Clapton’s Unplugged album on vinyl. I finally got to listen to his track Layla for the first time on this medium, and it was a surreal experience. I love this song, and hearing it on a different way was magical.

This cafe has soul and vintage records. I will definitely be a regular here.

La Cathedral Cafe

Yesterday, I had an iced latte at La Cathedral Cafe. It is located right beside the Manila Cathedral, and its roofdeck has become internet famous for the view. I was not disappointed during my visit, and since I wasn’t planning to stay for long, I opted to just hang out at the roofdeck without a table.

The roofdeck gets full easily, so it’s best to go there early and list yourself so you will surely have a table. However, it is also fun to just drink coffee while basking in the view of Intramuros whilst standing up. I enjoyed a few minutes of peace while sipping their surprisingly excellent coffee. It was a relaxing experience, which I definitely recommend to you all!

Check this cafe out on your next visit to Intramuros. You will surely be in for a visually pleasing treat and have some strong coffee while doing so.

Katre X Hello Kitty

I attended the recent launch of local leather design house Katre’s collaboration with Hello Kitty. It was a marriage between chic and cute as the two brands worked together to produce grown-up versions of bags for Hello Kitty fans.

I myself had a red Hello Kitty shoulder bag when I was three years old. Now that I’m 33, I bought myself a stylish and updated version of my childhood bag. I am glad that I did, because it was a joy to use. The camera bag fits all my basic essentials, and the shoulder strap did not hurt my back.

The collection will be out online on March 1. Do check it out, as you will surely be reminded of your happiest childhood memories!

BFF Day

Last night, I got to have dinner and coffee with my college best friend Janis. We had burgers, then proceeded to Sunnies World for honey lattes by Cup Point.

I love this place for its unique aesthetic and retro interiors. The coffee is also delicious, and Sunnies everything is sold onsite.

We bought matching Silvio sunnies and had a good time.

And Janis cheered me on as I took a photo on Sunnies Face’s iconic floor.

She also took this photo of me just having fun at the store.

I was happy to spend a few hours with my best friend. She saw me grow from awkward college kid to someone who just wants to make the most out of the life I have.

I hope to see her again as every reunion turns me into a better version of myself.

Old Congress Coffee

I recently visited Old Congress Coffee along Visayas Avenue, Quezon City. I went there for the coffee and vinyl records, and I was not disappointed.

The cafe has an extensive coffee menu that happens to include light food pairings

The cafe also has cakes to go with your coffee

They serve Yardstick Coffee, and I got a taste of this smooth blend when I ordered my americano. My sardines pasta was deliciously al dente. It was a pairing that I will definitely enjoy again as it was flavorful and awakening.

The cafe plays vinyl records on their Pioneer sound system

As for the vinyl records, I enjoyed the Bread and Coldplay songs that I heard during my stay. It was quite an experience to listen to songs which happen to be my style on HiFi.

The author’s crochet project with her sardines pasta and americano

I will definitely go back to this magical place!

Bayleaf Sunset

Yesterday, I was lucky enough to have dinner at the Bayleaf Hotel Intramuros. It has long been on my bucket list, and it certainly did not disappoint. The view was enough for me to feel satisfied, considering that I commuted there all the way from Ortigas.

I ordered a Cerveza Negra and the Bayleaf Burger. Both were delicious!

My solo dinner was a quiet time for me to be grateful for a productive February. I look forward to an even better month ahead!

Sunnies Clarity

I spent my holiday Tuesday at Cup Point SM Megamall. I ordered their bestselling honey latte, crocheted, and had some custom Peggy specs made in rose taupe.

I like having different pairs of specs because it makes me feel like I’m in control of my look. Glasses for me are a style statement. They’re an easy way for me to highlight my features without spending a fortune or putting on a ton of makeup. They’re also risk-free and functional, as it corrects my low-grade astigmatism.

I am glad that Sunnies Specs at Megamall has Cup Point as it makes the 20-minute wait for my specs sweeter. I got to crochet and people watch. Before I knew it, my glasses were done and I already had another pair to use.

I will definitely be back for more clarity and coffee!

Art Fair 2020

I recently attended Art Fair 2020 at Makati City last February 21st, and I must say that I wasn’t disappointed. While I can’t call myself a serious art collector, I still appreciate fine art. I love what it does to me as a person. I feel better whenever I look at works by artists because they speak to me and convey emotions that I sometimes bury inside myself. As a result, I leave the annual art fair as a better person and a more emotive human being.

I hope that you will also attend Art Fair not just to purchase art, but to appreciate yourself in the scope of the artists’ works. You will surely be enriched by the intense collective energy and joy. Who knows, you might even learn more about yourself in the process.

The author at Art Fair 2020

The author with some Rodel Tapaya works

Heirloom Technomarine

After bringing my late grandpa’s watch to the shop, I later brought my late dad’s watch for some custom love. I chose thick black rally straps in artisanal leather to complement my father’s Technomarine. Reader, I wasn’t disappointed.

From my father, I learned some blobs of wisdom that enrich my life to this day:

• Cash is king

• Choose someone who will love you and still give you space because you’re an only child

• Work for yourself and never for your employer, even if you are employed

• Pray and believe

• Never be afraid to want good things for yourself.
  

I miss my dad, but I know that he is closely watching over me. I will surely live my life to the fullest because he is just hovering nearby. For now, I will live without abandon, and love like today is my last one on Earth.

Heirloom Seiko

I recently brought my late grandpa Cedric Bernardez’s Seiko Kinetic to the shop for some thick custom leather straps. I wasn’t disappointed. I selected rich brown artisanal straps with wax thread stitching to honor the man who taught me to appreciate the finer things in life. Among those are the following:

1. Write down your feelings and analyze them later. And write your name on everything your write, hence this eponymous blog.

2. Drink alcohol with refinement and never with intense emotions.

3. Beer should be appreciated anytime, just like coffee.

4. Jewelry is a form of self-care. Never be afraid to indulge in bling for oneself.

5. life is too short.
   

So here I am, wearing his watch and living his legacies. This is Samantha Gail Bernardez Lucas, bearer of my late grandpa’s name and passions in life. I will never take this life for granted.

Life is too short to be half-lived.

Filipina rapper Alex Bruce teams up with BTS collaborator August Rigo on “Going Crazy”

MANILA, Philippines – Here’s another upbeat jam that embraces a more eclectic sound. Alex Bruce’s second single “Go Crazy” under Sony Music Philippines is a collaboration with Filipino-Canadian songwriter and producer August Rigo, the other half of the songwriting duo behind BTS’s worldwide smash “Black Swan.”

The sophomore track takes listeners to the Filipina rapper’s musical journey and the struggles that she has to overcome in her bid to discover a bigger world outside of dreams and opportunities. “The song is all about me dreaming big,” the young talent reveals in a statement. “It’s also about my vision of how the world will interact with me and my music. Literally, it’s about pushing through my blueprint and perspectives, no matter how hard it is.”

Having written or produced songs for Justin Bieber, One Direction, Kehlani, and BTS to name a few, Rigo takes pride in being part of Alex Bruce’s upcoming release. The hitmaker who co-wrote three tracks on Justin Bieber’s multi-platinum album, My World 2.0 and brought a distinct flavor to several pop, R&B, and hip-hop releases of the last decade, once again enlisted his fellow songwriter and producer Vince Nantes to come up with a potential hit that appeals specifically to Bruce’s charismatic persona. 

“My management and I had been speaking to Sony Music’s Roslyn Pineda about possibly working together, and they thought that Alex and I would be a great fit,” Rigoshares about how he ended up writing for the rap sensation. “I wanted to make sure to capture the energy and vibe of Alex’s current music because I really loved what they had going on. I just wanted to incorporate some of my vibes with hers to create something real fresh and new but still true to her and what she has built thus far.”  

Alex returns the favor by expressing how truly honored she is working with the musician for the global stars. “Actually, I didn’t know him at first, until I was introduced to his body of work. I was a big fan of those artists he worked with. I remember the first time I chatted with him over Skype, and got amazed after finding out how down to earth this person is. He’s so kind, accommodating, and friendly despite his accomplishments. He just unlocked a new version of me.” 

Bruce previously released “Pull It Off,” her first single under Sony Music Philippines. It peaked at number 3 on Wave 89.1’s weekly countdown, setting the record for the youngest female artist to chart in the R&B/hip-hop radio station’s history. 

Alex Bruce’s latest single “Go Crazy” is now available on Spotify and other music streaming/download platforms worldwide.

Tipsy Tales’ Lambana Valentines Special Php 2000 – Two for One Tickets

Catch Tipsy Tales’ Lambana: Immersive Folklore Experience this Valentines with a special Php 2000 for 2 ticket price this February 7 – 23, 2020 at the Tipsy Tales Immersive Theater in Eastwood Mall, Quezon City.

Visit your long lost grandmother, hear her love stories and get to meet your favorite Filipino Folklore creatures in the dark, whimsical world of Lambana where you get bring the love of your life.. or leave them there forever.

Don’t miss your chance for a multi-sensory, cultural experience unlike any other. Be the hero, the villain or the spectator in this immersive theatrical experience where you’re the main character.

Tipsy Tales has shows daily (except Tuesday) at 1:00pm, 2:30pm, 4:00pm, 5:30pm, 7:00pm, and 8:30pm. We have special group rates and discounts available. Each slot can only accommodate up to 15 people. Wheelchair-bound guests can be accommodated, please inform the Tipsy Tales Team Team at least 3 days before your scheduled experience.

The recommended age for guests is 12 and above, but children younger than 12 can be given a special children’s version of the show upon special request.

Book your Valentines Date before slots run out!

About Tipsy Tales

Tipsy Tales is an immersive experience company based in Metro Manila that develops unique entertainment that allows people to create unforgettable moments with the people that they love. Founded in 2017, Tipsy Tales transforms physical spaces into multi-sensory worlds where they experience culture and adventure.

Tipsy Tales produced the Philippine’s first permanent immersive theater in Eastwood Mall, Quezon City.

About Lambana: Immersive Folklore Expereince

Lambana is Tipsy Tales’ pioneer immersive experience that uses multi-sensory spaces, live performers and interactive, dynamic theatrical lights and sounds wherein every show can end differently depending on audience interactions. It is a 75 minute cultural attraction where the audience is the main character in their every own Filipino fairytale adventure.

For bookings, questions and concerns, you may contact us through email at hello@tipsytales.ph, our Facebook page at http://facebook.com/tipsytales.ph/, check our website at www.tipsytales.ph, call us at +63 2 8362 3456 or visit us at the Tipsy Tales Immersive Theater, 4F, Eastwood Mall, Quezon City, Metro Manila, Philippines

Human Nature Cubao

Last February 15, I attended the opening of Human Nature Cubao. It is located along the LRT2 concourse, making it a convenient shopping location for commuters.

The franchise is owned by Mr. Steven Tan and family. They started as core advocates at Human Nature, until they opened the Human Nature kiosk at Farmer’s Plaza. Now, they run their own branch and aim to capture the direct selling market at the crossroads of the railways.

It was an honor to witness the opening of this store. It is a testament to the advocates’ faith in Human Nature, and the transformative power of this social enterprise that I am also part of.

I look toward to shopping for my personal needs and orders here! Coffee is also served here with every purchase.

I hope that you will also support Human Nature Cubao soon!

Makati Days

I’m currently working on a project at Makati City this week. It has been fun so far, and I do miss the area! My first office was right around the corner, so I visited some places that I used to frequent. It was a nostalgic trip that made me happy to be in that part of town again.
I hope to rediscover more places this 2020! It shouldn’t be that challenging.

Earle’s

I used to frequent this sandwich shop called Earle’s along Ayala Avenue. I was a fresh graduate with an entry-level job, and I was always hungry during lunchtime. I would cross the street to order my usual: the Black Forest ham.

I would finish off my meal with coffee and a walk around the block. I had simple joys then which still continue to this day. I still eat good food and walk to burn calories.

Today was a good day to be reminded of how far I’ve come, and how the best memories can be triggered by something as simple as a sandwich.

Udon and Beer

I have a new comfort food. It is Marugame Udon’s curry udon and beer. It is perfect after a tiring day. Do give it a try soon!

Taal Relief Goods

I recently spent two days packing relief goods for Taal Volcano eruption victims. We filled dry bags with supplies to help victims get back on their feet.

To continue helping Filipinos in time of disasters, I highly recommend ABS-CBN Foundation. You may like their Facebook page to be updated on upcoming relief operations and donation drives.

Godbless you!

Borealis Diamond

Ever since I started collecting rings from homegrown brand Borealis Crystals, I appreciated fine craftsmanship more. This PWD-owned and managed social enterprise works with local artisans to produce handmade jewelry made out of the finest precious metals and gems. The most important part here is that they choose to offer budget-friendly bling to customers who with a taste for handcrafted and bespoke quality.

The author wears her tiny teal diamond ring on her ring finger

Here is now my current Borealis stack: my Borealis heart, my green sapphire fruit drop, and my latest from this shop, the Tillie. It is a teal tiny diamond in 10k white gold which I wear on my ring finger. All three rings are sparklier in real life and are worth every single peso.

I hope that you will also support Borealis Crystals! This is not an ad, rather, I am just a happy customer who recognizes fine workmanship when I see it. Trust me, you won’t be disappointed and the wait for your jewelry is definitely worth it.

For My Grandpa

Please include in your prayers my late grandfather, Cedric Bernardez. He passed away last January 15th due to cardiac arrest.

It was from him that I learned to appreciate fine wine, beer, eyewear, and Manila. I will forever be grateful to this OG influencer who used to hold office at Escolta.

Cheers!

Katsu for Taal

I recently supported Yabu’s katsu for a cause. All proceeds from their sales last January 28 would go to Taal victims. Since I love Yabu and charity, this was a no-brainer for me.

I had the menchi katsu set and a cold pale pilsen. It was an amazing lunch, and it felt great to help out.

Please join me in doing more for others this year. It’s easier than you think!