Barkin‘ Blends Year of the Dog Date

I visited Barkin’ Blends Dog Cafe today to celebrate Valentine’s Day and Chinese New Year. I am particularly happy that this time, it is the Year of the Dog. I am a frustrated dog lover, so the next best thing when my family is allergic is to visit a dog cafe. 

I started my celebration with lunch: Ella Pesto Pasta and dark chocolate milk tea. 

Their food and drinks are delicious and comforting.  

Of course, the cafe was decorated with hearts, lucky doggo charms, and post-its from customers. 

After finishing my lunch, I proceeded to the dog zone to bond with my favorite pooch Ella! 

I missed her so much. She did not seem scared of my green lippie. 

We bonded and she gave me her usual sloppy kisses.  

I knew that she was sleepy so I let her take a nap.  

I had a lovely visit as always, and I look forward to more chill afternoons at the cafe. See you soon, Ella and friends!

Pawlentines Date

I spent Valentine’s afternoon at the PAWS shelter along Katipunan Avenue. I went there after my family lunch and Ash Wednesday mass. 

I was excited to join their PAWS Furst Date event, which is their Valentine’s Pop-up Dog and Cat Cafe. For only Php300, I get to spend time with a shelter animal, a cup of coffee, cookies, treats for my chosen doggo or kitty, and lots of cute photos.

I was super thrilled by the time I reached the cafe area. 

I selected senior dog Ruff because of his smile. He was so delighted to spend time with me! 

He was huggable, kissable, and adoptable! Unfortunately, I can’t adopt him. But if you are thinking of taking a dog home this year, please consider adopting him. He’s the sweetest. 

We entered the cafe area and I chose the Paris corner.  

He devoured his dog muffins from Whole Pet Kitchen in between photos. 

I fell in love with this cutie and I really wish he will find his furever home soon! 

We walked around the compound and I made it a light jog. This buddy was able to keep up with me. I was impressed! 

The pop-up cafe will run until February 17, from 1-5 PM. Please drop by if you can! It’s the best Valentine charity event I have ever been to. Who knows, you might also fall in love with one of their adorable and sociable shelter animals!

Galentine’s Day

I had dinner with my girl friend Chesca on Valentine’s Eve. We checked out 150 Maginhawa and we both had a lovely dinner. She had a Chinese rice bowl, while I had another meal in mind.

I had this beef burrito rice bowl from Molcajete, and it was delicious!

Then, I had this Davao Tablea chocolate cake from Wadough’s, the cafe from the MMFF 2017 tearjerker All of You starring Jennylyn Mercado.

Oh God, it was to die for. 

Meanwhile, Chesca had this chocolate ice cream cloud from Up in the Clouds. 

I also had my photo taken by the pretty wall. 

We then proceeded to Grape Escape for some red wine and catching-up.  

It was a fun and laidback Galentine’s Day with one of my favorite gals! Til next time! 

Gnocchi Hearts Day!

 Buon San Valentino!

Yesterday, I turned thirty-one and a half years old. I celebrated Valentine’s in advance as well since February 14 is Ash Wednesday.  

I had lunch with my family at Bellini’s Cubao X. Imagine my surprise and glee when I saw that their menu contains gnocchi !

I simply had to have their spinach gnocchi. I mean, it’s Valentine’s!

We started with this pizza. It was delicious.  

Finally, I had my gnocchi and beer. You have no idea how long I’ve been looking for delicious gnocchi in Manila. 

It was yummy!

For dessert, I had a slice of their delectable orange cake. It was the perfect ending to a lovely meal.  

Also had their house dessert wine.  

And since this was the setting of one of my favorite movies, One More Chance, I had to have some photos by the famous table. 

Basha (Bea Alonzo’s character) has been my style icon for years! 

John Lloyd and Bea forever.  

I had a heavenly lunch at a memorable place! Thank you Bellini’s for bringing my gnocchi dreams to life! 

Sam Lucas, 31 1/2, single and happy! 

From Lourdes to Pares

Last Sunday, I attended the procession in honor of the feast day of Our Lady of Lourdes. It was through her intercession that I was healed from Fibromyalgia and my eyesight became 20/20 when I was a teenager (trivia: my eyesight is STILL 20/20! My glasses are purely for fashion). I took an Uber to the National Shrine of Our Lady of Lourdes at Retiro, Quezon City since parking will surely be a problem. 

I was welcomed by a fiesta atmosphere.  

I bought a candle from a street vendor for Php20.  

It started to drizzle while waiting for the procession to start. 

Good thing it didn’t last long.  

Here we go!

I got to tour the surrounding areas of the parish and it was fascinating to witness faith in action.  

The procession lasted more than two hours.  

By the time we got back to the church, I was determined to give thanks and whisper my intentions to Our Lady.  

I went up to the altar to pray.  

And I witnessed the fiesta fireworks! I exited the church to briefly watch the spectacle. I love fireworks! 

I returned inside to pray in front of Padre Pio.  

Before I knew it, it was time for the procession image of Our Lady to return to the church.  

It felt like a rock concert! 

The lighting was surreal.  

And here she is! 

I stood on top of a pew like most people to get a better view of Our Lady. 

I felt blessed.  

I was so happy to have witnessed this firsthand. 

Thank you Mama Mary! 

So after the festivities, I was starving! I looked for the pares place my best friend recommended to me, and I hope I found the right one.  

It looks legit.  

I ordered beef pares with rice.  

IT WAS DELICIOUS!  

That was a magical and enjoyable night. I hope to enjoy more new experiences like this one in the coming weeks, months, and years.  

February Coffee with Diane

I started my weekend with an Ebe Dancel concert last Saturday at Trinoma. I appreciate his music because it reminds me of the best days of my college life. I had all the feels as he sang my favorites, such as Tulog Na and Burnout. 

The next morning, I did some brisk walking at UP. 

There was a color fun run, so I had the chance to peruse their pink powder. 

I had my usual ice cream sandwich: avocado and cheese!

And since it was a Sunday, my strawberry taho vendor was there to dish out this sweet dessert. 

I had to deal with some personal matters, so I was hungry by noon. I drove to Breakfast Bin for my beloved toasted naked longganisa. 

But first, I went twinning with the drinking glass.  

Finally, it was time to devour my lunch.  

I listened to some pop music while enjoying my slow Sunday meal.  

After lunch, I found two teen girls selling balloons. I bought a heart one for Diane, and I had my photo taken while holding their merchandise.  

I have always wanted to do this! 

Confession: I do buy balloons every now and then to spruce up my room. I’m forever a kid at heart! 

Then, I went back to UP to burn my lunch.  

After my afternoon walk, I bought French Vanilla coffee from a convenience store.  

And then, I delivered my Valentine’s treats to Diane. 

I tied her balloon around her stuffed flowers.  

I also got her a bracelet with a meaningful saying from Papemelroti. I hung it around her bud vase. 

As always, being with Diane was a time warp. I spent some quiet time with her. 

Before I knew it, it was time for me to go to my next engagement.  

Spending time with Diane gives me a sense of peace and tranquillity. Whenever I felt sad in high school and college, I would always run to her for advice and comfort. Now that I’m already thirty-one, I still do so. I am lucky to have her in good times and in bad. Like me, she was an only child. She knows how it is to cheer oneself up. Her memory inspires me to continue doing so. Her life motivates me to keep going.  

Thank you Diane! I will see you next month.  

Mac and Matcha

I have always wanted to eat at Le Petit Soufflé, but I never had the chance to do so.  

Until now. 

I finally had the opportunity to eat at their newly-opened branch at Mega Fashion Hall. I was fresh from the Book Binge Bazaar, and I was hungry! 

Once I saw their dreamy window, I knew I had to enter their lovely restaurant. 

I was welcomed by an interesting menu. 

I settled for Just Mac and Cheese and a hot matcha latte. While waiting for my order, I snapped some photos. 

I was delighted to sort of match my drink!

My mac and cheese was served after a few minutes, and I asked the staff to take photos of me with their dreamy interiors. It is so pretty. 

Their mac and cheese is one of the best I’ve ever had. The cheese was perfect and not cloying. It was a grown-up version of a childhood favorite. 

Plus, it goes well with their delicious matcha.  

It’s as yummy as it looks!

Everything appeals to me. 

My solo lunch at Le Petit Soufflé was a memorable one. I do recommend this place for your next lunch out! And while you’re there, take pictures, savor the food, and appreciate your surroundings. It is the ideal oasis in the middle of a busy shopping mall. 

Book Binge Friday

Yesterday, I went to the Book Binge Bazaar at Megatrade Hall. It was a Friday and I needed some new books, so it was practically a no-brainer. 

But first, I took some selfies next to these adorable balloons which matched my dress! 

I went there after lunch so my commute would be more chill. I got there at around 1:30PM. 

There were so many bibliophiles!

Crowded book fairs make me so happy! 

I got a rolling basket and got five books from the P275 area.  

This was my haul! 

Being surrounded by books makes me smile.  

This was the line to the cashier. It took me around half an hour to reach the finish line.  

I enjoyed my shopping spree because I got a delightful selection of lifestyle books. I can’t wait to read them and I hope my book adventure will give me good luck this Year of the Dog!

Begin Again

Yesterday, I claimed my bespoke ring from Studio 925. I “drew”/doodled my design for a new ring to be made out of an old one. I believe in the importance of being eco-friendly, even when it comes to jewelry. That is why for Valentine’s Day, I decided to go to Janina for a redesigned silver ring with amethyst. 

I was excited to see the finished product, and I was overjoyed when I claimed it. It was better than what I had in mind!  

Stacked with my Nawa rings

If you want to feel special, you have to start with treating yourself right. Trust me, I feel better after having this ring made because I know that it is uniquely mine. I am going to add this to my Nawa rings and I am also happy that they do not clash. 

It seems that handmade is the way for me to go this year and beyond! I hope you will also consider buying handmade and from small businesses. Oh, and if you also have silver bling at home which are in need of an overhaul, bring them to Janina!

It is always better to buy something which is locally made- and not manufactured in a mechanical assembly line. 

I am beginning again this year with a handmade lifestyle and a love for all things local! I hope you will also find your own handmade finds soon. 

Loving Vincent

I watched Loving Vincent again at the UP Cine Adarna. It was a solo movie date on a weekday, and the gloomy weather set the tone for the movie. 

I had to watch it again because a) it is showing at UP Film Center this February, b) I can’t say no to Van Gogh, and c) it is a visually arresting movie.  

Here is Cine Adarna’s schedule for February 2018. Tickets are Php150 each. 

I had a lovely solo movie date. 

The seats at Cine Adarna are mall-standard and comfortable. 

I had Rodic’s tapsilog for dinner.  

And for dessert, I had fresh strawberry graham shake at Roma and Charlie. 

If you want to unwind at an affordable price, drop by Cine Adarna and eat at UP Shopping Center. It is beginning to be my favorite campus.  

Museum of A History of Ideas

I have always wanted to visit UP Manila’s Museum of a History of Ideas, and last Saturday, I finally got to do so!

I was welcomed by a beautiful white building and lush greens. 

The museum traces the early beginnings of the University of the Philippines, which ushered in the beginning of secular education. It also features the modernization of medicine in the country.  

I love the clean design of the museum, and I also appreciate the continuity of theme in their souvenirs. I got this shirt to remind myself that ideas matter.  

I also found the inclusion of greenery refreshing and inspiring.  

Vintage medical equipment from the Philippine General Hospital are also found in the museum. 

The light and airy building removed the morbidity. 

I also got to watch a short video on the history of UP and PGH.  

The museum may be small, but is was full of information, artifacts, and light.  

There were also personal mementos from the first students of UP. 

Ended my visit with some photos by the stunning displays.  

I was glad to have made the trip to UP Manila for this museum experience. It was a breath of fresh air.  

Quiapo Church

Would you believe that I only got to visit Quiapo Church last Saturday? I did so after my San Sebastián tour. Since Quiapo Church was a few blocks away, I decided to go for it.  

I passed by some old houses along Hidalgo Street, like this one. It is a contrast of old and new.  

I found my way to Quiapo Church in no time. 

I immediately felt the vibe of a thousand prayers. It was magical. 

My short visit was worthwhile. I got to pray and reflect on the immense faith of the people who visit this popular church everyday. 

This was my second basilica for the day, and it was wonderful to finally drop by this church of the people. 

I had a simple lunch at Chowking Quiapo. My table was right beside this sidewalk vendor. I was humbled by the busy atmosphere and it was truly a memorable break from my usual weekend endeavors. 

I hope that I will experience more meaningful new things this 2018! 

Metal Health

Last Saturday, I went on a tour at the San Sebastián Minor Basilica. As a heritage conservation advocate, I am constantly on the lookout for experiences which could enable me to witness restoration efforts first-hand. Since the church is undergoing extensive restoration, I joined the tour to help support the worthwhile endeavor. 

This beautiful church is located in Quiapo, Manila. It is the first and only all-metal building in the Philippines. 

It is important to help save the basilica as it is already a part of our history. 

I was there early, so I got to roam around the church and warmed up to my beautiful surroundings.  

I also bought merch from their souvenir tent. Proceeds from the sale of their Save San Sebastián merch go to the restoration fund.  

There was no shortage of beauty in this metal wonder. 

The lighting of the chandeliers signaled the beginning of our tour.  

We began our tour by testing out the metallic surfaces on the church. I used my souvenir magnet, and yes, the basilica really is all-metal. 

This is Ysabel. She is the one-woman restoration tour guide and tech person behind the cause.  

I opened the doors and it was fascinating to see the church with awe. 

Ysabel gave us a sense of place with vintage photographs from another era.  

All the walls, columns, and ceiling panels were painted to conceal the rivets and metal parts. This church is a beautiful masterpiece in concealment.  

The restoration is being undertaken by an international team of experts in their own fields.  

As you can see, the paintings on the wall are fading fast. 

They need to be restored using the latest techniques so that the grandeur of this basilica can be preserved and brought to life. 

Our tour continued to the choir loft, where the best view of the house could be enjoyed. 

I relaxed a bit on the pews and appreciated the majestic view. 

The gothic architecture resonated with my steampunk leanings, I must admit. 

We then proceeded to the upper levels, where the concealment ends. Here, the rivets are clearly visible, and the metal parts are bare. 

Even the hidden upper levels are filled with unexpected beauty.  

I found the upper part of the ceiling beautiful. It reminded me of a ship. 

This is a sample of the restoration undertakings.  

As you can see, rust is the enemy of a metal structure. This is why it is crucial that this gem gets restored stat.  

The dome is a piece of beauty amidst the urban skyline.  

I enjoyed this, and I highly recommend that you join one of their Saturday tours! It is a chance to appreciate history, architecture, engineering, and art all in one morning. Plus, you will help support the restoration as well. 

Join the tour, take pictures, and experience Manila as it should be- with a renewed appreciation for our rich heritage. 

Film, Self-Love, and Friendship

Last Thursday, I spent the afternoon doing things I love. I got a haircut from a new salon and I was satisfied with it! Trying out new salons fascinate me because I want to know where I can get the best care for my pixie. The latest one seems fabulous!

After my haircut, I proceeded to Cinema Centenario to watch Deadma Walking. 

It was hilarious! Joross Gamboa is my all-time favorite straight-actor-who-plays-gay-roles. He was amazing here. I am a babaeng bakla (girl who has a happy and gay sense of humor) so this movie truly resonated with me. 

I had to have a couple of photos taken by the Cinema Centenario signage because a) new haircut, b) new dress, and c) LOL movie.  

Then, I had late lunch at Bonchon for a Bibimbowl. 

I also finished Day 21 of this book after my meal. Yay! 

I also did some grocery shopping. The supermarket is a therapeutic place for me. I enjoy looking at different food items and toiletries. I bought this month’s needs (read: mostly hot chocolate and coffee because, priorities). 

Before I knew it, it was already time to meet my BFF Jay for dinner and chika (catching-up).  

It was our first time to try Botejyu. I had an okonomiyaki. 

And this was Jay’s sukiyaki. 

Everything was delicious! 

We then had dessert and I had to snap this pic of some pretty tiles we saw.  

I am thankful for my day of pampering, film appreciation, and catching up with my best friend. I look forward to more happy days this year! After all, there is still a lot to look forward to this 2018. 

Nawa

When was the last time you wore something that inspired you to be a fighter?

I experienced that when I purchased my Nawa bangles and rings. I received it the other day, and it honestly felt like Christmas all over again.  

My bling was packaged in eco-conscious materials and the rings were housed in this adorable woven pouch. 

I ordered three bangles because I already have ten Natalya Lagdameo ones, and I needed to make it a stack of thirteen (it is my lucky number). I also got rings, because I thought it was cool to have stacks on both my wrist and finger. 

Nawa donates to the Lake Sebu School of Living Traditions (SLT) with every purchase. 

I feel thankful that I selected these bangles and rings for my Valentine’s gift to self this 2018. It is a gift that gives back to the T’boli tribe in South Cotabato who created these bling. Also, their culture and traditions are preserved and kept alive through the efforts of SLT.  

Also, the girlbosses behind the brand (Timmy Potenciano and Jopie Sanchez) are rad and they are totally supportive of the community and their customers. I personally like how Timmy designed the jewelry to have rounded ends for comfort and ease of wear. Putting them on is a breeze and the quality is superb. The bangles and rings are lightweight and they have a modern look (Read: they are not your usual tribal jewelry!).

They sell individually too if you prefer ordering just one ring or bangle. If you want a full wrist of bangles, they sell stacks of ten as well! 

Nawa is your go-to brand for boho to boardroom jewelry- with a story to tell.

Not to mention that these babies are still minimalist enough to join a stack or blend with your existing jewelry without making you look tacky.  

Whenever I feel challenged or troubled, all I have to do is look at my warrior bangles and rings. I immediately feel empowered with my North to South stack, but I am more partial towards my Nawa pieces because they are social enterprise-made (handmade by Filipino craftspeople) and inspired by centuries of rich T’boli heritage. 

It is my turn now to go further in life and continue being a fighter, with meaningful bling to boot! 

National Museum of Anthropology

I visited the National Museum of Natural Anthropology in Manila the other day. I had a free afternoon, and I was eager to immerse myself in culture, local textiles, and traditions. 

I am partial to local textiles, so it was a delight to see different kinds of woven masterpieces from various regions. I was also able to see the Laguna Copperplate in person for the first time. 

I am a firm believer of experiential learning. Museums make me learn more than books or documentaries because I get to appreciate artifacts and artworks in the flesh.

As always, I took photos to document my visit. I hope that they will inspire you to also visit this beautiful museum soon. Admission is free, so bring the whole family- or go there by yourself, just like I did! It’s therapeutic. 

I hope you will appreciate local cultures and traditions too this 2018! 

Soul Flower, Co.

I dropped by the Soul Flower, Co. studio along Malingap, Quezon City to resurrect an old bling. It was good to see Janina (silversmith/designer/teacher/GirlBoss) of Studio 925 (and Soul Flower, Co. along with Pat, who is her fellow girlboss, and she teaches leathercrafting) again after almost a year. I wanted a bespoke piece and she is one of the easiest people to talk to. 

If you have old silver jewelry that needs redesigning, bring to to Janina. She’s your girl for breathing new life into your accessory game.  

Now, going back to the studio. How dreamy is their display? 

I want all these bags.  

Everything is handmade with love and design thinking.  

They also sell supplies, findings, hardware, leather, and silver! They also offer studio rental and workshops which are announced monthly on social media. 

I can’t wait to see the finished product!

If you want to learn silversmithing, leathercrafting, or simply want to buy handmade, do swing by the Soul Flower, Co. studio. It is an inspiring space and you will definitely find a piece to bring home with you- whether you’re into quality genuine leather or jewelry that lasts a lifetime.  

Papemelroti Artisan’s Workshop

Yesterday, I spent the afternoon crafting, making, and simply being myself. 

I dropped by the newly opened Papemelroti Artisan’s Workshop to chill out and get lost in arts and crafts. I was eager to take a break from reality, and I was not disappointed at all.  

I was lucky to find a parking slot in front of the Korben Building. I was able to look around the Papemelroti Flagship Store at the ground floor, where handmade goodies were on display.  

I am a huge fan of Papemelroti merchandise because they are locally made and most of them are crafted by artisans in need (their accessories are made by the Kidney Friends Foundation members).  

The second floor houses racks of vintage clothing which are in good condition! Proceeds from the sales of these clean thrifted fashion go to charity.  

The clothes are affordable and most of them are branded.  

A few steps from the clothing boutique is the Artisan’s Workshop. I was greeted by shelves of kits awaiting customization.

I also found this napping area.  

This taka horse is reminiscent of the papier-mâché horses at Paete, Laguna. 

They have paper dolls in the workshop. Perfect for a nostalgic play session. 

The workshop is open from Monday to Saturday from 8AM to 8PM. You do not need to book or schedule a crafting session. You simply show up, purchase a kit, and pay the Php50 borrower’s fee for materials such as paint, glue, pens, and old magazines.  

The space is inspiring and it brings out the artist in you. Notice the natural light, murals, and handmade decor.  

The tables and chairs are inviting and I was excited to spend time crafting!

When I saw these papier-mâché sitting pretty dolls, I knew I already found my kit for the day. 

Their menu features affordable price points and various craft options for all ages. 

So I finally settled for a 2018 planner and sitting pretty doll as my crafts for the day. Yes, I chose two because, why not? 

I began my crafternoon at the stamping station which is reminiscent of similar setups at tourist spots abroad.  

I personalized the first two pages and I knew that it will be a productive session. 

I also got an old book so I could tear the pages off for decorating my planner and doll. As a bookworm, this broke my heart a bit. But then again, this is also eco-friendly. And words look pretty.  

I did my thing and enjoyed the sunshine on my window.  

I was assisted by workshop staff Lyn, who was not just a proficient teacher, but also a skilled photographer! 

I gave my doll magazine cutout hair and curled it using scissors.  

Before I knew it, I already spent four hours in there and I was done! 

Lyn was game to take photos of me with my crafternoon work.  

I was really into the taka horse.  

This place made me feel young, carefree, and capable of having a dream. As you know, one of my dreams is to live a handmade lifestyle. I think this afternoon perfectly upholds that! 

Meet my sitting pretty doll! I enjoyed decorating, painting, and styling her. 

I made her heart wings, which I later removed and turned into a separate decor for Valentines.  

I had a productive crafternoon and my journal is basically my vision board for the year. I pasted magazine cutouts, painted words, and placed stickers to spice up my days.  

Spot my creation among her sisters! 

By the time I was done, I was starving so I drove to Breakfast Bin Maginhawa for my favorite toasted naked longganisa with brown rice and sunny-side up egg.  

I had a gorgeous day and I recommend the Papemelroti Artisan’s Workshop for your next art session! Bring your friends and family. Or if you want to spend some quiet time by yourself, it is also fine! Then eat at your preferred restaurant. You deserve self-love and handmade goodness all-year round!

For the Love of Handmade

Last Thursday, I decided to take a P2P to Alabang to visit the Common Room & Co Pop-up and Common Room Store at Alabang Town Center.

I felt spiffy as I came from a conference at AIM so I had to take a selfie in the bus.

The trip was quick and I was there in half an hour. 

Finally, I was able to catch the pop-up before it closes on 31 January! 

I was giddy to be there as I am a huge fan/believer of handmade. 

I also had to pose by their most photographed spot.

Note to self: what if I fly? 

 Every spot is filled wih beautiful murals and quotes.

See how dreamy it was? This was why I made the trip to the south! 

I was there to look for a necklace and some Valentines gifts for my parents. 

They even painted on the floor and I was ecstatic to find this hopscotch setup. 

As a fan of indie sellers and locally-made goods, I stand tall for small shops! Also, handmade is better. Always. 

How cute was this tic tac toe setup? 

They had everything for every budget and style. These flowers look dreamy. 

I had to have my photo taken by this massive wall filled with Christmas wishes! Yes, these were actual wishes posted by customers and handmade fans. 

It was difficult to ignore the writings on the wall. 

Every time I purchase handmade, I feel as if my dreams are coming true because I have always wanted to transition to a buy local/handmade lifestyle! Supporting shops and pop-ups like Common Room keeps the dream alive and lets me buy from makers as well. 

After touring the pop-up, it was time to drop by the Common Room ATC shop. This one is a permanent location.

Like their Katipunan store, this also sports a dreamy yet edgy ambience.

I found Blue Flame Jewelry’s gorgeous display. I wanted to buy everything! But I decided to look around first.

This was Blue Flame’s sterling silver display. All her pieces are handmade. 

This was her brass and copper display.

Everything was beautiful and created with so much love. 

It was delightful to see Knitting Expedition’s shelf!  I already own their black dachshund plushie and I named it Ella after my favourite dog from Barkin’ Blends Dog Cafe. 

These handmade flowers are giving me life. 

I eventually decided on this delicate silver necklace from Blue Flame. I am partial to onyx, stars, and oxidized metal.

Isn’t it lovely? 

This sign is everything. 

I had my purchases wrapped and I looked around some more. 

This was my mini-haul: a Habil terrarium bulb for my dad, a pair of handmade earrings for my mom from Piesa, and my dainty necklace.

Of corse, I had to try the earrings on!

And then, I wore my new necklace inside P2P. It felt like a new beginning.

If you like handmade as much as I do, check out Common Room and support makers who create pieces with passion! 

January Coffee with Diane

Every month, I try to visit my late friend Diane at the columbarium where her remains have been laid to rest. I make it an event for the both of us. 

I started my day with an early morning walk.  

Then, I had a streetfood classic for brekkie: chilimansi (chili calamansi) pancit canton with a huge bun and sunny-side up egg.  

It was a breakfast that Diane would approve of. I eventually turned it into a pancit sandwich. 

I was still hungry so I had a small serving of taho for Php10. It was the perfect ending to a blissful morning meal.  

I wrapped up my walk and bought my favorite French Vanilla from a nearby convenience store. Diane and I loved to have coffee back in the day so I still continue the tradition to this day.  

I finally reached the columbarium. I set up a cozy nook in front of Diane’s vault.  

I usually bring an ebook or a book, my Traveler’s Notebook, and the aforementioned coffee.  

Being with Diane can be a time-warp as I enjoy reading by her side. 

I also share with her my latest food trips and sketches (which are usually of food).  

I also update her with the latest on my life, my blog, and my fitness journey. She used to be a fitness buff at some point so I would like to think that she is cheering me on from wherever she is now! 

I read The First to Know by Abigail Johnson during my visit. The protagonist is a softball player who’s growing up and discovering love, and I think Diane would have enjoyed this too. 

I was comforted by a brown butterfly which flew in front of me as I was reading and sipping my coffee.   

Hi Diane! 🦋  

If you want some quiet time to read and simply relax, why don’t you visit your late loved ones every now and then? Turn it into a mini event so you will be motivated to do so. Who knows, you might also get to know yourself better through the loving gaze of your loved ones!