Jogging Blogger

I started jogging at UP three days ago. It was the last day of 2017, and the air was chilly. I was excited to try a new hobby, and I figured that brisk walking along the carless campus would do me some good. It was a breathtakingly silent experience, and I was struck with how much I enjoyed the meditative workout. It was delightful to be with other joggers and walkers. 

I returned the next day, as it was the first day of 2018 and I wanted a fresh start. The cool morning breeze was the ideal accompaniment to my brisk walk. I was surprised that I returned yesterday, and this morning. I had fish balls, Rodic’s tapsilog, and instant coffee. And I had my fair share of sunshine, silence, and peace. It was the perfect way to welcome the new year, as I will literally walk to the beat of my goals. 

Girl at the Museum

I visited the National Museum the other day to appreciate beautiful artworks. The museum has been my sanctuary during my student days when I was still doing my majors for my Humanities degree. These days, I still admire beauty and I find having a sense of wonder on sublime pieces a refreshing respite from the busyness of the everyday. It was a lovely break from reality, especially as I was still high from my visit to Rizal’s grave. I was inspired to fill my 2018 with beauty, wonder, and a continuous hunger for meaningful experiences!

Do pay the National Museum a visit soon! Entrance is free for everyone, and it is fully airconditioned. You will get inspired and proud to be Filipino.  

At the Beginning

I am thankful to begin 2018 with a recap of my visit to the National Planetarium on Rizal Day. It was my first time to go there, and my inner science geek was not disappointed. I enjoyed the show (unfortunately photos were not allowed inside the theater) which showed stars, planets, and how unimaginably vast our universe is. I think it is fitting to begin the new year with a retrospective on how our universe began, on how small I am in the sea of stars, and how valuable our planet is because it supports life. I may not know what the new year has in store for me, but my path is in my hands. If our planet can hold its own place amidst our galaxy, then I will surely be able to evolve, grow, and thrive this year. It is a fresh beginning, and I am going to do everything I can to make this my year!

Luneta On Rizal Day

I am a Rizal fan! I think it comes naturally for me as I am a Humanities graduate. However, I have not yet been to Luneta to visit the Rizal monument. So, I was fortunate that we are in the country this time of the year and yesterday, I finally visited Rizal’s final resting place on the day of his martyrdom, no less! It was worth the trip, as I felt emotional to be close to my favorite hero. I even wore my millennial pink Noli Me Tangere shirt to show off my fandom to the world. It was a great day to be a Filipino, and I am proud to call our national hero my personal favorite. 

If you have a hero who inspires you to become a better individual, I suggest that you also make the effort to visit his or her final resting place. It will put things into perspective and it will also motivate you to aspire for greatness. It is worth the time and honoring sacrifices never goes old. Do yourself a favor and schedule it soon! 

Fun on Target

Yesterday, I had coffee with my college friend Mae. It was fun to have some time to catch-up over soy latte. I definitely enjoyed her company and I look forward to seeing friends like her again. 

Afterwards, I tried archery again. It was my second time to do so. My main objective is to have fun, so I kept on shooting arrows as I felt all my stress melt away. It was amazing how this sport totally made me feel that I could learn something again with ease. I enjoyed the vulnerability of being clueless about something. I am still learning archery, so I still have a lot of pointers to remember and apply. However, if fun is the target, it is easier for me to enjoy something. I look forward to my next archery session and I hope that I will also enjoy it regularly.  

Archery Noob

I have always wanted to try archery but I never had the time to do so. I was always too shy to try it out with a date, so I opted to finally take the plunge yesterday alone. I was able to get a private lesson from an instructor at Arrowland, and before I knew it, I was enjoying myself with my bow and arrow! I even got a bow with my lucky number 13 on it. Of course, I was a first-timer so my initial shots were not perfect. But I did manage to shoot the bullseye! Finally I have a sport that I really enjoyed playing. I look forward to practicing more and hopefully improving as time goes by. 

Here’s to first times and happy endings! 

Wednesday with Charlotte

I had a great dinner with my Canadian friend Charlotte last night at Sunnies Cafe. We got to discuss life, work, and plans for the future. It is fantastic to have friends like her who are goal-driven and have the same kind of ambition as I do. It is also valuable to have people who got my back. I am thankful to know her and it was a lovely Christmas dinner at BGC, which I rarely even visit due to the traffic.  

I even got to spend a few minutes browsing through Fully Booked, which is my favorite bookshop. It was nice to check out new titles to read soon. Surely, life will never run out of possibilities as long as there are books! 

Friends and books make life more meaningful. I hope to make more time for people like Charlotte, especially in 2018! Here’s to more girl time, risotto, and good reads in the coming year! 

Boxing Day 2017

Yesterday, I celebrated Boxing Day by myself. I got accustomed to going out on the British holiday, which was a habit I developed from my years working in an Australian company. I treated myself to a new water bottle from Starbucks, then I had lunch at Bonchon. Then, I watched Siargao  on a recliner seat. It was a feel-good movie with stunning cinematography. I capped off my day at the mall with my monthly pixie trim. I tried a new salon, and I enjoyed the experience! 

I look forward to more simple joys and me-time days. Surrounding myself with positive vibes is crucial to offset the negativity I have harbored in the past months. For now, I am breathing in the good and immersing myself in self-care.  

Blessed Christmas

Yesterday, I began my Christmas celebration at the St. Clare Monastery, where I made my weekly offering and prayed for all my intentions. I also expressed my gratitude for a wonderful Christmas with family and friends. 

Most restaurants are closed on Christmas morning, so I ate a hearty breakfast at a convenience store. I also enjoyed my coffee while reminiscing on past Christmas celebrations and memories. I later proceeded to my workout and danced my brekkie away! 

The festive mood carried over to lunch with my parents. We ate at Crisostomo and had dessert at Sebastian’s.   

Yes, that’s sapin-sapin ice cream! 

Christmas called for extra special cuddles with my furry family at Barkin’ Blends. My favourite dog Ella was taking a nap, so I spent the afternoon with Loki and Robin, who would not let me go home. 

I had a simple but joyful Christmas Day, and I encourage you to also celebrate important holidays your way as best as you can! I wanted to feel the warmth of my family and friends’ company this season. I look forward to celebrating the Yuletide festivities with someone special someday. For now, I am thankful for what I have, and yes, I feel so blessed.

Christmas is for Kate

Yesterday, I was able to catch-up over lunch with some of my Lucas relatives. I was able to give my Christmas present to my goddaughter Kate (daughter of my cousin Bianca). I got her a Hello Kitty Flik Flak watch and she seemed to like it! I realized that Christmas is really for children and to see it through Kate’s appreciation for her gift is priceless. While I may be cynical about a few matters, I will never get over the magic of Christmas. The season may be for children, but the meaning of Christmas who is Jesus Christ lives on. I look forward to more catch-up meals this week and I will treasure the friendships made through the years. 

Inspired with Faith

Yesterday was my sponsored child’s birthday, and I celebrated it with a mass in her honor. It was also special because I thanked God for her academic honors. I am very proud of my girl and I prayed for her health, schooling, and growth.  

I decided to have dawn mass at Pink Sisters because I received this in the mail from them. When they want to pray for me, I will definitely go to their place and offer my intentions! 

But first, I had cookies baked by my childhood friend Chesca. She also gifted me with Lava Cheese Tarts, so I included one in the mix. It was a decadent combination! 

By the time I arrived at the Pink Sisters convent, I was greeted by angelic voices and a full house. I lifted up my intentions to the Lord and thanked Him for granting me the gift of fantastic health.  

After mass, I proceeded to Kanto Freestyle for some tuyo (dried fish) and kesong puti (white cheese). I paired the awesome meal with some barako coffee. My hearty breakfast powered me through my workout. 

I had an intense Zumba and cardio session to burn all the goodies I enjoyed. It was enough to make my abs emerge, and I had a laugh while taking these selfies at the parking lot. 

My last stop for the morning was my late friend Diane’s vault. I showed her our dream abs because I am the only one left here to workout on her behalf. It was a joyous occasion, and I made sure to wish her a Merry Christmas, wherever she may be.  

I am truly thankful for all the good cheer I am experiencing now. I look forward to sharing this love to others this holiday season and beyond! 

Blood Donor

Last Thursday, I have witnessed a miracle. 

I was able to donate blood for the first time! 

This is momentous for me because I have been diagnosed with hypothyroidism for most of my life. However, I have also been diagnosed as euthyroid by my endocrinologist since my body has been positively responding to my thyroxine medication. I am constantly being monitored through blood tests, and yes, I am fit to work. However, I have already been used to being rejected as a blood donor because of my hypothyroidism. So imagine my surprise when I was given the green light by the doctor at the Red Cross Blood Drive at St. Jude! According to him, the revised Red Cross guidelines already allow euthyroid patients to donate blood. I was so excited, that I practically smiled through the process (even if I was a little nervous!). It did not hurt at all and I even got a brownie and juice afterwards. It was a priceless Christmas miracle and I look forward to donating blood again next year!

I am thankful for miracles. Please be a blessing to others and consider donating blood too at your nearest Red Cross blood bank! 

Barkin’ Christmas

Yesterday, I decided to hang out with my furry friends at Barkin’ Blends Dog Cafe. I am in love with them and my favorite dog Ella was there to spoil me with kisses. I am a huge believer in creating my own positive vibes, so if I need to go to a dog cafe to feel loved, then I will do so. Being in the spirit of the holidays can be tough when I am single, but it should not be that difficult now that I know how to create my own happiness. I realized while cuddling Ella that Christmas is about sharing love with my (human or furry) friends. I felt incredible sipping dark chocolate milk tea with Ella on my lap. Love indeed does not need to come from a guy. I am enjoying singlehood for now, and I will definitely return to Barkin’ Blends soon!

Sunday Beauty Queen

Yesterday, I was able to catch the closing film of UP Film Center for 2017, which is Baby Ruth Villarama’s Sunday Beauty Queen. This award-winning documentary has caught my attention because of its pageant plot and focus on domestic helpers in Hong Kong.

I was pleasantly surprised that the pageants being organized are for charity, such as the Bethune House, which helps troubled women workers get back on their feet. I was touched by the movie and I realized that people can uplift their circumstances if only they will find a passion to pursue.

I am inspired by the women in the film, and I was thrilled to take a selfie with Mylyn Jacobo. She was one of the brave and admirable stars of the film. And I was happy to hear that she is now living in the Philippines for good, and she is taking acting workshops! I wish her all the best and I look forward to catching her on the big screen soon.

I am excited to catch more films at UPFI’s Cine Adarna next year! Here’s to more impactful movies and charmed moments! 

Sick but Not Stuck

I have often shared about my journey with hypothyroidism, and it has been a lifelong roller coaster ride. This week, I have experienced an extra challenge as I am currently down with fever, sore throat, and colds. It has been a struggle to get up and carry on with my workouts. But the important part is, I still worked out! And I also continued reading and making plans. 

Today, I had pizza and coffee for lunch, then I proceeded to Sta. Clara for my weekly check-in with my intercessor. It is my last visit before Christmas, so I made sure to whisper all my intentions for the holidays. I am grateful for her continuous prayers, and I am banking on the Christmas spirit to level up my intentions! With a little pixie dust from above, I am sure that my prayers will be heard and answered.  

I hope to recover from this rut soon. I am lucky to have found my routine, and that my flow is unending even when I am sick. Here’s to continuing my fitness goals and sticking to my plans amidst the medications! 

LOL at the Past

The past few months have been daunting, to say the least. I have experienced challenges which led me to decide on ending my stay in an unhealthy situation. Of course, it was not easy to say goodbye. I had hopes and dreams for myself which that situation could not fulfill, so I pulled the plug and carried on. Right now, I am simply enjoying the present and flushing the negativity out of my system. I have been sleeping soundly and eating more balanced meals. Also, I have been relaxing and sound tripping. I have also decided to make this Christmas a joyful one, because I deserve it. 

I am hoping that my decision to be happy during this festive holiday season will lead to better experiences and meaningful relationships. I am done with being pessimistic and I am now opening my life to beautiful memories. It starts now.  

Joy to the World

Yesterday, I dropped by my dermatologist’s clinic for some pampering. I decided to pose by the balloon installation which was displayed in time for their anniversary. It was fun to pretend that I’m only sixteen hahaha! And it was delightful to have a good laugh after a zit shot. 

My family and I then proceeded to Den Lim’s at Pampanga for a reunion with old friends. We enjoyed the the food and wine. It was a wonderful gastoronomic experience.  

I realized that this Christmas, it is possible to have joy because I am aware that happiness starts within. I am taking care of myself and meeting people. I am also focusing on the real meaning of Christmas, which is Jesus Christ. I am excited for upcoming events and I look forward to sharing joy to the world!

Cups and Chaos

I went back to my favorite Sunday Market this morning. I needed to be surrounded by my vintage things, and it did not disappoint. I dropped by my usual stall selling classy china and table wares, and I could not resist takin g this photo. I am a coffee and tea drinker, so I fancy a fine cup or mug for my perusal. Of course, it should have character. It should tell a story. It should elevate my coffee break to something more than a space between tasks and errands. It should inspire me through design while keeping my drink warm. Lastly, it should remind me of happy memories, as I plot my next plan while intaking caffeine.

I usually sort out the chaos of my life through coffee. Cups should bring me warmth and joy, so I choose people to have coffee or tea with wisely. I dislike hanging out with people who bring more chaos and destruction. I prefer to have someone with plans and principles. Such is my dream for my future over coffee. I want to have someone who thinks positively and who plans for the future while enjoying the present. 

For now, I am enjoying my coffee solo. I have let go of some chaos in my life, and I am replacing it with cooler memories which are better for my character. 

Holiday Fitness

These days, I am always meeting my friends and relatives. It is the holiday season once again, so it is expected to have subsequent events. Naturally, there will be a lot of food and drinks. I cannot say no to a hearty meal, but I can always say yes to a power workout every morning. 

To psyche myself up for a workout, I think of my fitness goals. I want to maintain my weight and abs, so I usually pop a video on YouTube which targets my core. I follow it up with some cardio, and I cool down to a slow song. I cap off my morning routine with breakfast and coffee. 

I never break my workout habit, especially during the holidays. It is more difficult to shed some pounds, so I simply shake off the laziness and focus on maintaining my figure. That way, I always manage to workout everyday. Fitness should be observed all year round. The holidays should never be an excuse to achieving and keeping my ideal body.  

Beer and Pasta

Yesterday, I had beer and pasta with my grandfather. It is always fun to hang out with him as he is inherently wise. I got to listen to his stories and it was fascinating to hear his take on my challenges. I am thankful to have him rooting for me and I will keep his advice in mind now that I am going through transitions in my life. 

I recommend quality time with grandparents because it is never going to be boring with them. Spend time with them while you can, and listen to their words of wisdom. You won’t regret it.