Today, my Zumba group was featured at Bagong Pilipinas, a morning show. It was fun to dance in front of a live video camera and I enjoyed grooving to the beat as our instructor was being interviewed. I used to be conscious about my dancing because I am not a skilled one, but I realized earlier that I no longer care. Here's to letting go and dancing to the beat of life!
Sam's Singapore
Singapore for me is an easy place to unwind and relax. As an urbanite, I find more tranquility in city noise and busyness. Being on holiday amidst a progressive and modern city is my kind of paradise. Here are a few vacation tips I have if you are planning to visit SG.
1. Go to the library@orchard for a free! If you are a bibliophile like me, you will definitely enjoy spending hours reading in this gorgeous space known for its wave-shaped bookshelves. There are also comfortable seats and nooks for you to plug your gadgets and your mind.
2. There are ice cream uncles selling cheap ice cream sandwiches for only SG$1.20. My favorite flavors are durian and mint chocolate chip. Do ask uncle to serve it in bread.
3. If you like quality stationery, drop by Kikki.K at iON Orchard for Swedish-designed leather notebooks, planners, paper, and office supplies. You will fall in love with the simplicity of each piece. You will find yourself eager to plan ahead with their planners and paper inserts.
4. Never skip a visit to the National Museum. The story of Singapore is creatively told for each visitor to understand the determination of this island nation to succeed amidst insurmountable challenges.
5. Another museum worth visiting is the National Gallery. You will be blown away by its extensive collection of definitive exhibitions featuring the best of Southeast Asian art. Do appreciate the beautiful architectural details as well which can be found all throughout the gallery.
6. Take the MRT! It is reliable, safe, and easy to grasp via Google maps. Singaporeans are also helpful and polite so do not hesitate to ask questions if you need directions or assistance with train stations and lines.
7. If you are too exhausted to take the MRT, you may also ride a car using Uber and Grab.
8. Do workout everyday and walk as much as you can!
9. It is advisable to exercise the day after landing home to ensure that all the delicious food from your vacation is efficiently burned.
10. Do unpack immediately to effectively transition yourself to your life back home.
Those were my tips for making your SG holiday memorable. If you get tired, you may want to chill out with a cup of Kopi (coffee with evaporated milk) which can be found along any hawker food hall or food republic court. Make the most out of each moment and just enjoy yourself in SG!
Causes for Animals SG
I swung by CAS SG's Animals Day Out. I donated a small amount to have photos taken with friendly doggos. I got pupper kisses and cuddles. Definitely worth smiling for charity!
Breakfast Matters
I enjoy eating breakfast so much because it energizes me throughout my day. It is also a requirement for me to eat breakfast forty-five minutes after I take my thyroxine hormone tablet. Because of this, the first meal of the day has become an important part of my lifestyle. I build my meals around the first one I have, and I tend to indulge in it the most because I usually have it after I workout.
The past three days have been special because I have been eating breakfast at the Mandarin Orchard Singapore. I workout every morning at the hotel gym so I am starving by the time I reach the buffet. This is the best breakfast buffet I have ever had. My favorites are the matcha muffin, pancakes with condensed milk, lor mee, cheese, and teh tarik.
It is awesome to have fancy breakfasts every one in a while. I do hope I can get a job soon so I can have breakfast at an office again. For now, I am enjoying my last brekkie here. I look forward to more filling mornings to come.
National Gallery of Singapore
I spent my morning at the National Gallery of Singapore. It was breathtaking. Here is my photodump of my visit.
library@orchard
I am thrilled to have explored one of the branches of Singapore's National Library here at Orchard Gateway. I am stunned by the flowing architecture of this space. It is conducive for reading, writing, and just plain hanging out. I am inspired by the openness of this place.
Commuting Alone
I enjoy commuting alone because it keeps my mind free to think of things that matter like this blog or my jobhunting. Unlike driving, commuting gives me a sense of being one with the collective. I find joy in going places faster. Singapore's MRT system is modern and efficient. Having experienced the country's convenient public transport was a memorable break from the horrendous commute I have back home.
Slinky Friday
I justness finished my visit at We're the Furballs, the popular dog cafe here in Singapore. I had a lovely time with all the dogs, especially with Slinky the dachshund. She's so soft and silky! It was worth the train ride. I am so thankful to my friend Addy for recommending this to me🐶!
Lourdes at SG
I survived the MRT here at SG! I just visited the beautiful Church of Our Lady of Lourdes in Bugis. Mama Mary has granted me many miracles, and I am praying for more. I have faith that her intercession will always be my most effective secret.
Eating Colorfully
My lunch yesterday was at Food for Thought, located at the National Museum of Singapore. Their Smoked Salmon Hash was heavenly! There was salmon, avocado, hash, poached egg, and greens. It was amazing and healthy. I am continuing my creative journaling whenever I can to prove that I can eat healthfully and colorfully.
Just Wear That Dress
I am currently wearing a dress I bought for less than Php250 at a department store. It fits me perfectly and I am giddy that I am finally able to wear body fit outfits. Here's to continuous fitness goals and confidence!
Eat That Ice Cream!
I am currently on vacation and I worked out this afternoon so I can EAT! I decided not to deprive myself during this trip. Yes, I had the ice cream that my heart has been set on for so long. I had durian ice cream from a sidewalk vendor along Orchard Road. It was so good! And also, I had the corn ice cream twirl at McDonald's. It was refreshingly satisfying. Vacations should be enjoyed. Just like my ice cream, which I devoured before it even melted.
Keeping You Posted
Today, we got to explore the Fullerton Hotel, which was formerly the main post office of Singapore. Now, it is a lovely hotel with a charming vintage charm. It is also the gateway to another destination of ours, the Merlion Park. I have decided to make the most out of my vacation. I may not have much right now, but I can totally live in the moment and that is surely the best thing about making life beautiful.
Stay Drawn
It has been quite a while since I last played with my art journal. I have been engrossed with books and yes, surviving unemployment. Being stuck in a plane with good food was the perfect catalyst to my hiatus from journaling. I was inspired by the colors in my breakfast to draw and long my meal. The result is a delicious blur on my tastebuds and traveler's notebook.
Lugaw Luxe
Eating arroz caldo at The Philippine Airlines Mabuhay Lounge has become a tradition for my family whenever we travel. It is fascinating that the simple breakfast staple I buy for P25 at my local park can be elevated to a luxury. I am aware of how fortunate I am to have been given the privilege of traveling with them to Singapore to celebrate my mother's birthday. I am unemployed so I am unable to afford this without their support. I am very lucky to be able to have a short break from reality, and I am praying that by the time I get back, I will already have job interviews to attend. I really miss working, so I hope to be able to join the workforce soon. For now, I am enjoying my porridge while we await our flight. It is a priceless family memory.
MIBF 2017
Today was fun as I spent my morning and afternoon at the Manila International Book Fair. It is my annual event, no matter what my economic status is. Now that I am unemployed, I only bought Shepherd's Voice books and 2018 Didaches for me and A. I still enjoyed my day because I LOVE being surrounded by fellow bibliophiles. The energy was just positive and it gives me a renewed belief in the power of the written word to unite people from all walks of life. If you are in a budget like me, read my survival tips below:
1. Ask for a map (from the secretariat booth) of the exhibitors and bookstores you plan to visit in the book fair. That way, you get to economize time and you will know where to go!
2. Make a shopping list of books and stick to it.
3. Bring your own eco bag. If you have a limited budget, just bring one small eco bag like I did. I already pre-filled half of that eco bag with a shawl and a bottle of water, which will help you survive the air conditioned SMX Convention Center. You will need the water. Trust me.
4. Albergus has catered meals within the venue. Prices for the set meals are P150 and P200. I got the P200 meal, which has two viands. It was really good and I always eat at Albergus because it is one of the reasons that make the book fair worth attending even if I live in QC.
5. If you want to go for the book signings, consult the schedule which can be found at the Secretariat booth.
6. CoCo Milk Tea now has a branch at SMX. It is still my favorite milk tea brand and they are still the most reasonably-priced Taiwanese franchise for me. Do check them out. My favorite is the large CoCo milk tea without pearls.
7. Lastly, if you intend to go back to the book fair within the day, do have your wrist stamped by the guard so you will be granted re-entry.
MIBF continues to be an amazing event for book lovers and I cannot wait to attend next year's edition! I am sure you will not regret attending it too. Hopefully, I will have more budget next year so I can buy more books!
Raindrops
I am staying at home today as the raindrops sound ominous at the moment. There are moments when the rain weakens, and it is reduced to a drizzle. However, I would not want to take a chance especially since some roads are already flooded by now. I have decided to stay in and workout using my YouTube videoes. It was refreshing to burn calories in the comfort of my own home after spending several weeks following my Zumba classes at the park. Since I have a small space, I chose power walking combined with toning videos. By the time my workout hour was over, I was dripping in sweat and I could feel my thighs and bum on fire.
I had pandesal, peanut butter (I am allergic to peanuts and nuts but I can tolerate peanut butter), banana and coffee for breakfast. I love slow mornings because they are conducive for reading and catching up on social media. I also enjoy planning my upcoming days and weeks over a cuppa. I am supposed to go out later but we have postponed our get-together as the typhoon is expected to intensify as the day goes by. For now, I am enjoying the sound of the rain and the book in my hand.
Fluffy Love
Yesterday was a fun-filled day for me and A. We attended the third anniversary bash of Barkin Blends, the first dog cafe in the country. We had an amazing time because it was a Harry Potter-themed event! We were personally welcomed by Bernadette, the entrepreneur behind the cafe, who outdid herself this year. All her dogs are adorable, friendly, and trained to entertain guests. Whenever I can drop by, I make it a point to hang out at the cafe and have a cuppa with my favorite dog Ella, who is a chiweenie. If she is not in the cafe, I spend time with the other dogs and they do cheer me up when skies are gray and whenever I just need some fluffy kisses. I tried visiting a cat cafe before but it's just not the same. I'm a dog lover through and through, and I am very happy that Barkin Blends has become a haven for human floof fans who cannot have pets of their own.
I attended the weekday mass today at a new chapel near my place. It was serene and calming, and I was glad to have spent my time with the Lord. The closing song was "Give Thanks", and it struck a chord with me. These past few weeks have been challenging as I am still unemployed, but if I will maintain an attitude of gratitude, then my perspective will be more accepting and positive. I later had a snack at Dunkin Donuts. I may not be able to afford expensive meals for now, but I am capable of treating myself. Having me time after my Sundate and prayer hour is uplifting. I should do this more often so I can keep my priorities and plans in check.
Who knew that a few hours with loved ones and the Lord could jumpstart my week? I'm stoked to carry on with whatever life will throw at me this week. For now, I am enjoying my coffee and solitude.
Sundayness
There's something about Sundays that make me reflective and thankful. I realized this while driving to breakfast. I was craving for a chicken fillet ala king breakfast meal with large coffee, so I drove to McDonald's. The sun was shining, the sky was insanely blue, and Katipunan was free of its signature traffic jam. It was a gorgeous morning.
I was eating my meal when this beautiful Golden Retriever appeared with his owners. He was smiling the whole time and he charmed me while I was enjoying my breakfast. His owners packed his treats and made sure he was hydrated while they were eating. The doggo looked joyfully at peace with himself. Whereas here I am, worrying about my joblessness and lack of resources. I realized that it is a lovely day and I am still able to workout, eat breakfast, and read books. I am blessed beyond what I can comprehend and I am certain that there is an opportunity for me out there. I still have yet to seize it.
For now, I'll take from this doggo's cue. Be cute and stay hydrated. Because life is too beautiful not to be enjoyed.
Communicating with Guys
I am in a stable relationship with A. We have worked out our issues through counseling and we have discovered that building our life together is not a one-time deal. It is a journey that constantly needs care, attention, and mutual respect. While we are not married yet, we are both improving ourselves. I am fond of reading books that resonate with me, either through self-help or inspiration. These books provide the perfect balance to my fictional novels which make my life interesting and colorful.
Last week, I bought this affordable book at Nationals Bookstore. I was browsing through it when I realized that it is the ideal book for me. I am not daydreaming that A should marry me right this moment. Rather, I know that like any working relationship, we need to communicate effectively with each other if we want to grow and mature together.
I have just finished reading it and it is a goldmine of wisdom for any woman who is in a relationship. I now understand why A tells me that I am a nagger. I believed that I was only asking him to do something, but thanks to this book, I have learned that it is the approach that makes men think that a woman is nagging. Once a man thinks that a woman is nagging or forcing him, he shuts down. In the same manner that when a man makes insulting comments to a woman, she also shuts down. There were many points of interest in this book, and I highly recommend it. It is an easy read and it is a wise investment for your relationship. I guarantee you that it will strengthen your bond and improve how you and your partner communicate with each other.