Fear and Friendship

Yesterday was a fun one. I started my day with a visit to Philippine Artisan Trade, where I saw these cute plushies from Knitting Expedition. I knitted with them at Banaue last February, so it felt like a homecoming. 

Afterwards, my friend Luti and I settled down over Bukidnon coffee and cinnamon rolls at Hineleban Cafe.  

Hineleban was the venue of this month’s Word of Mouth night. The topic was fear, and I spoke about overcoming my fear of heights, being single, and expressing my feelings. 

I was grateful to speak in front of my high school friends Luti and Jamie. My childhood friend Chesca was also there. It felt awesome to have my friends with me.  

I love having different friends together!

We then transferred to Milky Way for some halo-halo and catching-up.  

I crashed at Luti’s pad for the night, and woke up feeling fabulous after being with friends.  

I had so much fun! I need more of this. Here’s to  more coffee and excellent company!

Spam and Pizza

Yesterday, I attended to some personal matters which required me to suit up on a Friday! It was fun to adult and explore possibilities for my future. 

I went to mass at Megamall Chapel for some thanksgiving and quiet time.  

I was pleasantly surprised to discover that they bless religious articles after mass. Any amount to be donated to Caritas Manila will do. I had my new necklace blessed. 

I rewarded myself with a flat white...

 ...and a yummy caramelized spam rice bowl at Sunnies Cafe. 

I spent some time at the mall and I had pizza for dinner. 

It was a learning experience for me to discover opportunities, blessings, and delicious food! Here’s to more possibilities ahead. 

Hello Good Vibes

Yesterday, I decided to let go of my fears. I realized that I cannot progress if I let my negativity hold me back. I have to keep myself open to opportunities by expecting them to happen instead of fearing them. 

I reflected on upcoming opportunities and plans over breakfast. Things really take shape whenever plan ahead, and it is always better to think when I am in front of comfort food. 

I had my toasted naked longganisa and read a book to ease myself into saying yes to the plans I have made. I have realized that I simply need to keep on going, as I am already in the right path. I just have to remain consistent and yes, more positive.  

I am excited to take on more opportunities. I will need plenty of coffee, prayers, and courage. I think I will be okay.  

Gino’s with BFF’s

Yesterday was quite memorable. I started my day with knitting and this chicken x mac n’ cheese dish at Conti’s. 

I had my usual derma treatment, then I knitted some more. 

Then, I proceeded to my BFF’s office. I liked the natural light during my ride.  

And I even got to enjoy some art since I was early. 

Then, it was finally time for dinner. We had this yummy burrata caprese along with pasta at Gino’s. I was with my college and high school BFF’s so last night was special. 

I was so happy! 

I had delicious craft beer too.  

Later, we watched Rent at Ateneo. (College BFF not pictured). 

We had late dinner 2.0 after the show, but we had no decent pictures. Nevertheless, it was great to have my two dear friends with me last night. More memories please! 

Trim and Pray

I enjoyed knitting while waiting for my lunch yesterday at Pho Hoa. I had chili shrimps with rice and as always, I enjoyed it with sriracha. 

I had my pixie trimmed at the salon after lunch. 

Then, I went to St. Clare Monastery to pray and give thanks. 

I always treasure days that are productive yet still chill. I hope that I will have more days which are a balance of leisure, work, and prayer. 

Back to Walking

I was feeling under the weather yesterday, but that didn’t stop me from taking a brisk walk at UP. 

It was a beautiful day for walking and jogging. I couldn’t resist the picturesque weather. It was therapeutic to do some cardio while listening to Top 40 hits.  

I had shredded corn with cheese and taho for breakfast.  

I was happy to workout even if I wasn’t feeling well. The sunshine energized me and gave me positive vibes. Whenever I feel down or under the weather, I find myself going back to walking. And everything just gets better from there.  

Sunday with Friends

I was able to spend time yesterday with my high school friends Luti and Mabs. We ate lunch at Japan Fudo Street. 

I liked my oyakodon as it was flavorful and filling.  

We bought drinks at Serenitea, where I had this delicious Okinawa Tea and Espresso mix. Yes  

It was so good! 

We then watched Never Not Love You on recliner seats.  

For early dinner, we bought Samyang spicy noodles.  

OMG IT WAS SPICY! But it was a memorable experience.  

I am thankful for true friends who are willing to enjoy new experiences with me. I hope to create more memories with them in the future. 

Swimming ‘18

I am not a huge swimming fan but I enjoyed my  swim at my high school friend Luti’s condo. It was fun to simply relax and enjoy the pool with my friends. 

We had a lovely staycation and I will forever cherish these happy moments. Thank you for having me and Mabs at your new place, Luti! 

Ox Brain and Knitting

I had my first taste of ox brain yesterday at Mister Kabab, and it was a delicious experience. I have been stalking this meal on Instagram for a few months now. I felt that I had to be brave enough to eat this, but when I finally did, it didn’t feel like a big deal. It was simply yummy and filling. The consistency was creamy, and the meat melted in my mouth. 

I had it with rice and this heavenly yogurt shake. 

Of course, I snuck in some knitting while waiting for my order.  

I drizzled garlic sauce on my meal. It was the perfect lazy Saturday lunch. 

I then proceeded to Human Nature to purchase my personal needs for April. 

Every visit to Human Nature is a pleasant experience. I had coffee after paying for my things. 

I feel better after overcoming a certain fear. Yesterday, I felt badass after eating ox brain. I guess it may not mean that much to most people, but for me, it was quite a milestone. If you want to feel better about yourself, I suggest that you also eat or learn something new. Your soul will thank you for it. 

Project Aral Flip Flops

I was fascinated with these flip flops and notebook sets at National Bookstore. I am a longtime supporter of their Project Aral campaign, where customers can buy kits to be donated to public school students. This season, they included flip flops in every kit. 

I hope that you will also donate a kit or two this summer! Let us help more kids walk with confidence this sunny season. 

Knitting x Kori Kohi

Yesterday, I spent the morning knitting and reading. 

I am currently reading The Great Alone by Kristin Hannah. It is a novel set in Alaska, and the protagonist always wears flannel shirts. I knit and dressed like her, just because. 

After hearing First Friday Mass, I went to UCC for my usual spicy puttanesca pasta. 

I also had kori kohi, which consists of coffee ice cubes and warm milk. It is really comforting and delicious!

Knitting has helped me find my comfort zone as I explore opportunities to improve my present and future. I can’t wait to weave a better life for myself. For now, I am steadily creating a life that is memorable and meaningful, one stitch at a time.  

Strawberry Ice Cream

These days, I usually begin my day with a workout.  If I am on the stationary bike, I like reading and knitting while doing some cardio. Yesterday was no exception as I read my ebook and knitted at the same time. 

Then, I had lunch with my BFF Jay, who’s a professor at UP. 

We went to SGD, where I had this yummy etag carbonara. 

And for dessert, I had this delicious Cordillera Strawberry Ice Cream. 

SGD never disappoints! 

I also got this magnet from my BFF, who was recently in Cebu. Thank you!  

I really want to have that carbonara, strawberry ice cream and SGD black coffee again. ‘Til next time!

Prism Scarf

I finished knitting this prism scarf for a close high school friend of mine. It is made of self-striping yarn called Shawl in a Ball purchased from Gantsilyo Guru. In true branding form, I was able to complete a whole scarf using only one ball of yarn. 

I enjoyed knitting this baby as it was fun to watch the colors change from one color to another. It was magical to see the transition from my needles. It was also easy to work with despite having tinsel woven through the yarn.  

This won’t be my last time to knit using this kind of yarn. It was a joy to complete. I hope to knit in more interesting places and see colors pass through my needles again! 

Knitting, Kabab, and Coffee

I woke up extra early today, so I worked out before the rush hour. 

Afterwards, I decided to eat at Mister Kabab for breakfast. Their special chicken chelo kebab (double ground!) is my all-time favorite brekkie whenever I am up at an ungodly hour. It is best paired with coffee and knitting. 

It was an awesome idea to treat myself to a Persian breakfast at my usual place. I love knitting at my go-to locations where I can let my hair down and simply be myself. I hope that you have that kind of place in your life. The kind that you drive to when you’re up extra early or when you simply need to soundtrip, eat, and chill (for me, it’s knitting!). When you do find that place, always make time to come back. It is good for your soul. 

Easter Monday with Ella

I celebrated Easter Monday with a visit to Barkin Blends Dog Cafe. I missed my furry friends, and I also got to enjoy my favorite dark chocolate milk tea and pesto pasta. 

Also, how adorable are these dog treats for sale at the cafe! 

After paying for my meal and one hour stay, I finally received kisses from Forrest, Ella (I’m not supposed to have a favorite, but I do love this little girl), and Skye. 

Each visit to the cafe is a relaxing endeavor. It transports me to another world where problems don’t exist.  

Everything can be solved with a nap and milk tea! 

After my cuddle time with the dogs, I watched Never Not Love You starring James Reid and Nadine Lustre. I loved it! It was real, gritty, and well-acted. 

I got home to my new necklace and earrings from an online store. I am happy that yellow gold is on trend again, and I am pleased to sport 90’s jewelry these days. 

My Easter Monday was fun and chill. I do have my constants, and Barkin Blends is one of them. I hope that you will also find your own go-to happy place.   

Easter Sunday 2018

I celebrated Easter Sunday by getting fit and eating out!

My morning was spent brisk walking at UP.  

I missed soundtripping while walking. Also, the weather was really nice.  

My breakfast consisted of shredded cheese corn...

 ...and a dirty ice cream sandwich!

I knitted before mass.  

Then, we had lunch after church. We chose Torch as we were craving for meats, pizza, and maki. 

This was the volcano roll. It was a deliciously spicy dish. 

This Philly cheesesteak pizza was a crowd pleaser. It was satisfying and flavorful. 

The steak, fish and chips, and chicken yakitori were all yummy as well! 

My Easter with family was well-spent. I hope that next year, it will also be fabulous! 

Black Saturday 2018

I began my Black Saturday with a workout and a hearty breakfast. 

I posed by the townhouses near our hotel which resemble the San Francisco houses in Lola and the Boy Next Door.  

On our way home, we passed by the Calamba Rizal Shrine. I am a Rizal fan, so this felt like a homecoming. 

The Php1 coin I was holding was a tribute to my idol, as he is featured on the currency. 

Rizal had a dog!

We also dropped by the church where Rizal was baptized. 

It was located right next to his house. 

That was a fun visit!

My family and I had late lunch at Mom and Tina’s. Their Shepherd’s Pie is still so good after all these years!

I enjoyed reconnecting with my idol and eating delicious food. What a way to celebrate the Holy Week break. I look forward to more memorable moments in sentimental places. 

Good Friday 2018

Yesterday, I got to unwind in Batangas with my family. I started my day with my usual workout. 

After which, I had breakfast at our hotel’s cafe.  

The egg white omelette and cinnamon rolls were my favorites! 

I had local coffee of course. Then, I cleaned up and went to Montemaria for some Holy Week reflection. 

I knitted on the way there.  

Finally, I saw Our Lady. She was breathtaking.  

We visited other churches as well during our fime here, and had dinner at the hotel. 

This Asian Spicy Fusilli was divine.  

So was this blueberry cheesecake! 

I worked out before bedtime, just because. 

My view while doing cardio wasn’t too shabby!

I had a productive day combining prayer, balanced eating, and working out. It was a nice vacation in the country. I look forward to more meaningful breaks on special occasions. 

Revisiting Padre Pio Shrine

Yesterday, I got to visit the Padre Pio Shrine For the second time. This time, I was with my family. 

I started my day with a breakfast takoyaki rice bowl. It was surprisingly delicious! 

I knitted in the car.  

And before I knew it, we were already there at the shrine. I purchased a magnet for my collection and a bottle of pain relief oil for a friend. 

We walked along the Shrine and prayed at the various spots in the compound. My favorite spot there was at the main church, where this huge sign serves as a reminder for everyone. 

The place holds a special spot in my heart because Padre Pio is a powerful intercessor. His life is also a shining example of the transforming ability of faith. 

Indeed, I will pray, hope, and remind myself to don’t worry!

I also bought personalized keychains from this fun stall. 

I feel blessed to have revisited the Shrine and I am thankful that this time, I am stronger in faith. I will keep on going, because I am confident that Padre Pio will always pray for my intentions. 

Breakfast and Blush

Yesterday, I started my day with a hearty brekkie at Breakfast Bin. I had my usual toasted naked longganisa with brown rice and egg. 

I was still hungry, so I went to Papa Diddi’s for dessert. 

I love brands with a story, and small ice cream stores with unique flavors. 

I always appreciate how affordable Papa Diddi’s ice cream is. 

I chose the Treat serving in coffee addiction and cookies and cream. It was a delicious combination!

I ran some errands in the mall and later found myself at Yoshinoya for late lunch. Their beef bowl is still so good!

I walked around and found myself at blk cosmetics’ boutique at Trinoma. I tried on their lip and cheek tint and fell in love with the cherry shade. 

It was great value for money, and the color payoff was fantastic. 

It was pigmented and it goes well with my strong lippie from J.Cat. 

Last night, I did my weekly facial detox by applying my favorite Human Nature Pollution Defense Mask. It is made of bamboo charcoal, and is locally-made! You may purchase it from my online store. 

I hope that you will also find time to indulge in food that brings back wonderful memories. Also, don’t be afraid to discover new favorites, like makeup from local brands! You will definitely be surprised on how affordable (and empowering) it is to achieve your desired look.