Toasted Creativity

Last weekend, I surprised myself by returning to creative journaling.  

Those who know me well are aware of my passion for creative journaling. I enjoy drawing and watercoloring my food, and I am also into brush lettering. However, some recent changes in my personal life have required me to step back from my hobby. I needed to focus on self-care and self-compassion first.  

I was not sure if I could draw and paint again, until I finally had the urge to do so after my killer lunch. 

I ate my favorite toasted naked longganisa from Breakfast Bin. As always, I had it with brown rice, egg, and coffee. It was heavenly. ​

It was also the perfect inspiration for creativity. ​

By the time I got home, I was itching to draw my meal. I retrieved my Traveler’s Journal, pens, watercolors, and waterbrush.  

It was time to journal.  

By the time I was done, I felt alive again.  

I am back, friends! 

I am no longer dormant. Here’s to a creatively journaled year ahead!

Launching the Weekend

I began my Saturday with a brisk sunrise walk at UP Diliman.  

The weather was cool and conducive for an early morning workout.  

I tried cheese corn for the first time at UP and it was delicious! Get the Php20 serving and mix the corn, cheese powder, and butter together until it becomes one gooey, orangey combo. 

It was an energizing brekkie. 

I went home to freshen up, then I proceeded to the Human Nature flagship store for the launch of their pollution defense facial cleanser. It was refreshing on the face!

And this was my fresh-faced smile.  

I also sampled the new Cashew Bliss butter from First Harvest and it was yummy, I’m telling you! 

We were asked to write down our pledges for the new year. I pledged to blog about Human Nature this 2018 and this entry is a testament to my commitment to the brand and its Pro-Poor, Pro-Environment, and Pro-Philippines advocacy! 

We toasted to success and happiness this year.  

Then, I had some sweet nibbles paired with brewed coffee. 

We were asked to wear something colorful, so I gladly obliged with my rainbow shirt. I have never felt more Rainbow Brite-ish in my entire life!

I enjoyed launching the weekend with good vibes and positivity. Here’s to more productive weekends and brilliant moments! 

Pasta and Pancakes

I usually go to Brewing Point Cafe along Congressional Avenue whenever I am craving for a generous serving of pasta. And they never disappoint! My favorite on their menu is the vegetarian pasta, which is a medley of colorful, tasty goodness. I do not even miss meat whenever I devour this. I finish it off with their Nespresso americano.  

For dinner, I passed by a nearby 7-Eleven and bought the pancakes and Fiesta Ham meal to go. I was not expecting it to be the bomb. So imagine my surprise when I finally microwaved it and tasted it.

OH MY GOODNESS IT ​IS DELICIOUS I AM TELLING YOU. 

Do not let the underrated aesthetics fool you. It is a beautiful plate of Christmas feels. I swear it is worth more than Php59. I will definitely order it again. ​

Oh, and I finished it off with coffee. Again. Because the best meals always have to be with coffee. ​

Faith and Arrows

I am the type of girl who follows rituals. One of them is my weekly (I try my best!) visit to St. Clare Monastery along Katipunan. I offer eggs and lift up my intentions for the week. 

After visiting St. Clare, I proceeded to DMZ Archery Range to shoot arrows. I liked their Gwen Stefani x Justin Timberlake playlist during my visit. 

Also, I adored my bow which had my lucky number 13 on it! 

I was able to have fun and release all my stress during the game.  

Archery also helps in improving my posture. 

I think I have a favorite sport now. 

I look forward to more routine days which in time will be productive habits. Mindfulness has taught me to pursue the good and the meaningful. I sure hope am doing a great job this 2018!

Gravy and Cheese

Yesterday was all about comfort food goodness. I finally gave in to my cravings and I am enjoying my favorite food, one day at a time. 

I had the chicken ala king rice bowl from KFC. I usually top it off with four pumps of gravy. Yes, four. 

Next, I had a cheesy binatog with salt, sugar, and milk. It was deliciously filling and at Php35 for the large serving, was a fantastic deal to boot.  

I watched The Commuter starring Liam Neeson and it was enjoyable. As per my usual custom, I enjoyed the movie with McDonald’s premium roast coffee. I do enjoy action movies so if you have anything to recommend to me, do let me know! 

And then, I had this glorious Chicago White deep dish pizza from Sbarro for dinner. This is how they usually serve it.   

And here’s how I enjoy it: with lots of oregano, granulated garlic, and chili flakes! 

Of course, I do enjoy food in moderation. I make sure to burn calories with exercise. Life is too short for boring food. Make each meal count and burn it all with a workout while listening to your jam! 

Sunrise Kabab

Yesterday, I drove to Mister Kabab for breakfast at 6:00AM. 

This was before my workout so I had every reason to satisfy my craving for their special chicken chelo kabab.  

I was eager to sample my all-time favorite food at Mister Kabab. 

This is how they usually serve it. 

This was how giddy I was to eat my usual again.  

And this is how I usually enjoy it: with plenty of yogurt sauce and hot sauce! 

It was worth the drive! And yes, I prefer to eat there very early in the morning so there are less people, less cars on the road, and most importantly, I am able to burn all that food throughout the day! 

If you want to reboot your life, I suggest that you surprise yourself more with random treats. Take yourself out to brekkie. Listen to music or read a book while you’re at it. And enjoy it like it’s nobody’s business.  

Always remember that life is too short to live a blah existence. Go eat that breakfast you are craving for. You deserve it.  

Nourishment

I have always appreciated a delicious meal. I eat to nourish myself, but I also make it a point to make each meal count. To achieve this, I go for food which is both healthy and memorable. I also do not deprive myself, as I workout everyday and I need nutrients to sustain me. 

I have recently started eating taho again as a morning snack. It is satisfying after my brisk walk, and I like it warm and served with lots of sago.  

Another regular food I enjoy is Pho Hoa’s chicken vermicelli bowl. I eat mine with lots of sriracha. 

For a cheap and yummy dessert, I go for McDonald’s strawberry or hot fudge sundae. Both flavors complement their brewed coffee, so I often pair it with a large cuppa. 

Whenever I find myself at Cibo, I usually have the Farfalle alla Genovese. However, I felt like having my other favorite yesterday, which is the Penne Al Telefono. It is creamier, cheesier, and more gooey compared to the farfalle. However, it is simply as comforting as my usual. It felt like a hug from a close friend, or a shower after a long workout. Believe me, it is that good!

I will be eating more meaningful meals this 2018, and I look forward to sharing them with you via this blog! For now, I am looking forward to my next walk, my next breakfast, and my next cuppa. 

Here’s to staying hungry for positivity this year and beyond! 

Furballs and Faith

Last Sunday, I visited Barkin’ Blends Dog Cafe. It was my first visit for 2018, and it made me feel incredible as I missed my favourite dog Ella to bits.

Okay, I also missed their dark chocolate milk tea. 

Ella may not look happy but she was licking me before these pictures were taken. 

I’d like to think that she missed me too. 

Cuddling Ella (or any of the cafe’s numerous dogs) was therapeutic. That is why I keep coming back to the cafe even if they already moved to Cainta. 

The trip is always worth it. 

I get to hangout with dogs who love me. 

Each visit is golden. 

I will definitely be back, Barkin’ Blends! 

After playing with the dogs, I proceeded to St. Joseph along Anonas to visit the huge statue of the sleeping patron. 

I whispered my intentions and prayed that I will worry less this year, 

I had a great Sunday. I hope to enjoy more restful weekends this year and beyond! 

Anna and the French Kiss x Crepe

When was the last time that you ate something because you were hungry from reading about a particular food? 

I reread Anna and the French Kiss by Stephanie Perkins yesterday to celebrate my recent trip to Kilometer Zero in Manila (Point Zero in Paris was a crucial scene in the book). The novel had scenes of the characters eating crepes, so the next step was for me to actually eat one too. 

No, I did not go to Cafe Breton or La Creperie (my usuals for crepe). Instead, I went to Crazy Crepes and ordered the cappuccino with cookies and cream ice cream. ​

It was delicious! It was crunchy, ooey, gooey, and satisfying. ​

Now, what would my next book food be? I can’t wait to find out!​

Faith and Food

Yesterday, I visited Sta. Clara for my weekly check-in. She is already part of my routine, and it always gives me a sense of calm and serenity whenever I am there. ​I usually keep my visits there short and straight to the point. I offer eggs, ask for her intercession, and reflect on my current blessings, needs, and wants. Praying keeps me centered, and doing so at the monastery takes it to another level. It also helps that I have established it as part of my routine, so I no longer have any excuses to not drop by. 

After my visit, I ate breakfast at another regular hangout of mine, Oinkster. I had their ​toasted naked longganisa with brown rice and egg. Of course, I paired it with freshly brewed coffee. I enjoyed reading while eating my favorite brekkie. 

It was the perfect Saturday morning. Coupled with my workout, my faith x food routine is already essential to my lifestyle. Do you also have a regular routine that keeps you centered? I hope that you find yours this 2018, and when you do, keep doing it! It is fabulous to maintain positive habits for a better and more fulfilled life. ​

Surprise!

Yesterday, I received my first-ever present from Amazon. It was a book from my US-based aunt, and she got me Manifesting Your Greatest Self by Nick Ortner. 

I was practically beaming once I flipped the envelope over.  

The gift bag made me feel giddy and excited to see what’s inside!

I could not contain my happiness once I saw the book. It is exactly what I need right now, and I have been asking for new books from the Universe. Indeed, if you ask for stuff to happen to your life, you have to make it clear enough to be heard. 

You just might be surprised with its fulfillment, just like what happened to me! 

Requited x Specs

Yesterday, I had another afternoon adventure at UP Diliman. This time, I watched an indie film at Cine Adarna. It was entitled Requited, starring Jake Cuenca and Anna Luna. It was a movie which was centered on biking, unsettled feelings, and longingness. I enjoyed it because it reminded me that life should be spent traveling and exploring. I hope that there will be more local films centered on the wanderlust theme. 

After the movie, I claimed my Harry Potter-style frames from Sarabia Optical inside the Shopping Center. I was happy to finally wear it and yes, the frames are incredibly lightweight and comfortable. I love them! 

I decided to have a light snack of fishballs and kikiam. Then, I bought a fresh strawberry shake from Roma and Charlie. It was a delicious snack, and I think I will be a regular at that fruit shake stall. 

A meaningful day-out does not have to be expensive. With a little planning and openness to new experiences, we can enjoy more things in life. This year, I hope that you will also have more adventures. Here’s to a life well-lived, and the will to explore more this 2018!

Specs and Street Food

Last Monday, I finally got to have a pair of glasses made by the legendary Dra. Nella Sarabia. She is a huge supporter of Filipino rock artists and her interesting clientele has made her optical shop at UP Shopping Center a destination. Her shop is decorated with vintage cameras and photographs of the Mexican revolution. I just had to meet her and purchase a pair from her curated selection of stylish specs. 

Even if my vision is 20/20, I do enjoy wearing prescription-free glasses as accessories. I have them fitted with photochromic lenses so I can use them as sunglasses, which is convenient when I am driving or composing a blog post in a sunny area. I have a penchant for vintage frames because they add character to my style. So imagine my joy upon entering Dra. Nella’s shop, which was a vintage lover’s dream. She was also hip and really generous with providing discounts. I ended up choosing a pair of black round frames, which will be available for claiming later this week. I am so excited!

After paying for my glasses, my friend Chesca and I had some kwek kwek (deep fried quail eggs), kikiam, and avocado ice cream. Our trip to the UP Shopping Center was a simple and delightful moment which did not cost a lot.

I always find myself back at UP because it is a happy place for me. It does not take a lot for me to be happy. As long as I have a few vintage possessions and a steady supply of yummy eats, I’m good. 

Targeting Joy

Last Monday, I met up with my childhood friend Chesca. We had lunch at Salta!, which is my go-to place for delicious carbonara in Quezon City. 

Everything was yummy!

I like their handmade pasta because I can really taste the love behind the whole process.  

After an ice cream and Sagada coffee run at Papa Diddi’s (yes, another handmade food, but this time, it was ice cream), we proceeded to DMZ Archery Range to shoot some arrows. 

It was my first time to try archery with a friend and I enjoyed the afternoon! 

I was really there to let go of bad vibes and simply have fun.  

And it seems that Chesca also enjoyed her time at the range!

This was my favorite moment.  

We were so happy with our progress. 

Of course, the experience would not be complete without some photos on their logo wall. 

I got to hold this badass crossbow. It felt empowering!

I think we found a new hobby.

I surprisingly felt amazing during lunch and archery with Chesca. I was nervous that I might screw up my shots because I have only previously tried archery on my own. Nevertheless, it was fun to sneek in some laughs in between shooting arrows. I feel that archery will be my regular pasttime this 2018 and beyond! And yes, I look forward to spending more time with friends like Chesca.

Friendship Goals

I ate my Sausage McMuffin with Egg al fresco.  

Then, I was pleasantly surprised to see my high school friend Luti at the oval. We had to document this through a selfie! 

I went home to freshen up and then, I proceeded to Cinema Centenario to watch Patay na si Hesus starring the sensational Jaclyn Jose. It was an LOL movie with a killer script. 

I enjoyed my movie so much that I had to take another brisk walk around UP.  

Before I knew it, it was time for me to meet my college friend Gretch for some street food and convo.  

She was overjoyed to eat fishballs again! 

I was also this happy during that moment.  

We ordered pancit canton.  

Pancit canton and fishballs do make an interesting pairing! 

I was craving for something new so I ordered dynamite, which has chili, ham, and mayo inside the wrapper. It was delicious!

I turned down the heat with some dirty ice cream.  

After our food coma, we proceeded to Grape Escape for some red wine and a more comfortable ambience.  

That was a lovely day. I look forward to catching up with friends like Luti and Gretch again. As cheesy as it sounds, I am lucky to achieve friendship goals these days. I think I am doing just fine.  

Sakaling Hindi Makarating 2018

Last Saturday night, I watched Sakaling Hindi Makarating by Ice Idanan at Cinema Centenario. I have previously been to this microcinema at Maginhawa, and of course, it was perfect to view one of my favorite local films in my new hangout. 

I first watched SHM back in 2016, during its gala screening at Shangri-La Plaza. I was fresh from a breakup then, so the movie resonated with me. I watched it for the second time last year during its nationwide commercial release, and back then, I was in a relationship so the movie had a different feel for me. This time around, it is already 2018. I am single once more and I am determined to be happy by myself. Of course, it wouldn’t hurt to be with someone soon. But it is also important to realize that happiness begins with myself.  

SHM in 2018 was the ultimate reminder to self that a breakup is not the end of the world, but the beginning of a newfound love.  

This love is for myself, which is dedicated to pursuing new experiences. I will no longer dwell on the heartbreak. Rather, I would rather focus on moving forward with a zest for life and adventure. 

After the screening, the director Ice Idanan had a forum to answer questions regarding her movie. I learned that the film was inspired by her own heartbreak many years ago. As I am also healing from my own breakup, I am finding the will to live from fitness and mindfulness. Hopefully, I can emulate Ice and create something wonderful too as I trust the process of recovery. 

Watching this movie for the third time has made me realize that love is a journey which begins and ends with myself. If I will fall in love again, I will be able to share this love. As long as I continue loving myself, I will be fulfilled. Finding myself is a lot of BS because I have already found the secret to happiness. It is up to me to sustain it and pay it forward.  

Kilometer Zero

Yesterday, I visited Kilometer Zero at Luneta. I got the idea from Stephanie Perkins’ Anna and the French Kiss. Without providing spoilers, the protagonists had an important scene in their love story at Point Zero, which is the kilometer zero in Paris. Beyond the novel, Point Zero is still a hotspot for rituals involving luck and wish-making. As a result, I became eager to test this in our local Kilometer Zero located in front of my beloved Rizal’s final resting place. 

When I dropped by Luneta last Rizal Day, I was so moved by our late National Hero’s presence that I failed to notice that Kilometer Zero was literally in front of me. I only realized my oversight when I was already home. Thus, my determination to return to Kilometer Zero grew stronger during the week until I simply had to make the trip once and for all. So, after my workout, I took advantage of the traffic-free roads and made the commute to Luneta. 

I was greeted by history. 

I am very excited to visit this museum once it opens this May 2018.

Of course, this never gets old. 

A train named Pepe and Friends goes around Luneta for a minimal fee. 

It was a beautiful morning.  

This was morbidly gorgeous. 

I was about to cross the street when I first spotted Kilometer Zero.  

Finally, I made it!

I took my first selfie at KM 0. 

I wore another Rizal shirt for the occasion.  

I felt a sense of peace and hope whilst standing at the beginning of all roads in the Philippines. 

I just had to take another selfie with my homeboy Rizal. It felt good to see him again. 

I had a fruitful morning, and it was awesome to finally be at the beginning of everything geographically measured in the Philippines. I wished for all the best this 2018, and it was perfect to begin the year at KM 0. It was worth the commute!  

Do visit KM 0 at Luneta and make a wish or two! While you are there, take a brisk walk and appreciate history in the hallowed grounds. You will definitely enjoy your time.  

Post-Holiday Shopping

Yesterday, I finally spent the gift card from my Ninong Oscar to buy a basic black handbag from the department store. In keeping with my “buy local” advocacy, I bought a genuine leather number from Zoe Bags. It is sleek, reasonably priced, and stylish. I cannot wait to use it as I bag better opportunities this 2018!

I also had the chance to have my photo taken with the Sanrio holiday display. It made me feel like a kid again and it cheered me up! It pays to always be game to smile and seize every chance to have a memorable photo to capture moments of joy. 

I am all for simple pleasures in life. While I do own branded stuff, I still enjoy buying affordable pieces from department stores, bazaars, and online shops. I go for quality though, and I make sure that my money is spent well. As long as the item can serve me well, is made of materials which will enable it to last, and is within my budget, then I will definitely purchase it. Through the years, the most treasured items I own are those which are simple in design, yet thoughtfully made. I will be on the lookout for more blessings to come, and hopefully, these will spark joy into my life this 2018 and beyond.

Contemporary Art AM

Yesterday morning was chilly and I liked it because it was perfectly for my brisk walk around UP Diliman. After a quick breakfast of Rodic’s tapsilog  and instant coffee, I was on my feet, people watching while sound tripping. It was exhilarating, and it makes me wonder how come I only took up walking at UP now. Maybe it is because my heart really belongs to nature (think trees, grass, fresh air...). Or maybe I just need a fresh start this new year. 

After a few rounds around the oval, I proceeded to the Vargas Museum, which is one of my favorite places to explore for an art fix. Their current exhibit features contemporary art, and it did fuel my interest in beautiful paintings and sculptures. I enjoyed roaming around the museum, even if I am a frequent visitor. There is always something new here, and it pays to follow their Facebook posts for their exhibitions. Do check out the Vargas Museum at UP and experience the best of Filipino art and culture, at an accessible and inspiring location. 

Who knew that art and fitness could both be experienced in a single morning? I encourage you to try this out someday! It will definitely bring you joy.  

Microcinema Time

I have previously shared about my fascination with film and indie movies. I enjoy watching movies alone to destress and gain more empathy. I have learned from experience that film is more than just an escape from reality. It is a burgeoning art form which reflects our culture and history, as well as the direction that our society at large is taking. Thus, it was a real treat to discover that Cinema Centenario is now open at Maginhawa, my favourite street for food and indie culture. My first movie in the microcinema was Ang Larawan, which did not disappoint! It was a beautiful and moving musical, and I highly recommend it.

Cinema Centenario has an inclusive restroom, which is clean and is the first of its kind which I have encountered in Manila. They have film merchandise, snacks, Sagada coffee, and an affordable ticket price of Php200. They also have comfortable, elevated seats which is important in a microcinema as it shows that the management really cares that their viewers are able to watch movies in a conducive environment. Their sound system is also commendable. My experience was totally rad and I will definitely be a regular.

If you like indie films, small businesses, and quality experiences within your reach, do check out Cinema Centenario. You won’t be disappointed!