Pawsibilities

Yesterday, I had to attend to some personal matters. I knitted while waiting for my appointment. 

After my scheduled meeting, I went to mass in this lovely chapel. 

The weather was conducive for walking, so I took a stroll along Ayala Avenue. I chanced upon these sunflowers! 

I had my eyebrows threaded, and I was pleased with the results. 

Then, I went to Barkin’ Blends Dog Cafe to celebrate this day of possibilities. Here’s Forrest being extra clingy. 

The next clingy dog was Robin! 

He demanded for belly rubs, which I obliged. 

My celebratory mood was heightened when Ella was handed over to me. She’s my favorite dog, and yesterday was her fourth birthday! 

She is the sweetest chiweenie. 

We spent the afternoon cuddling and “napping” (at least for me). 

Being with Ella has reminded me to celebrate the small wins and look forward to the possibilities in my life. With a dash of prayer and a lot of pixie dust (I have the hairstyle to boot!), I am surely going to conquer greater heights, one day at a time. 

Common Room Katipunan Trip

I went to Common Room Katipunan after my event at the Ateneo Art Gallery to buy some handmade trinkets. I have always advocated  conscious consumerism by buying handmade and supporting local. So whenever I feel like shopping, I prioritize those that fall under these categories. 

Common Room is a shrine for those who love the handmaid lifestyle. 

They have a swing! 

Feast your eyes with all the handmade goodies inside the shop. 

I even saw some Knitting Expedition plushies!

The store also has a respectable leather goods section. 

I ended up with a coin purse, monogrammed cord ties, and a couple of pairs of basic stainless steel earrings. 

The store has an ongoing recycling campaign, so I donated the labels that came with my goodies. 

Buying handmade always makes me happy. There is a sense of fulfillment in buying from small, independent brands. I hope Common Room will have more successful years in business. And I look forward to going back to shop for more handmade goodness someday!

Ateneo Art Gallery x Elmer Borlongan

Yesterday was a series of field trips to some artsy places. I began my day with a veggie skillet at Breakfast Bin. 

I dropped by St. Clare Monastery to pray and give thanks. 

I then went to the Ateneo Art Gallery for an ArtSpeak featuring Mr. Elmer Borlongan. 

The Arete building was gorgeous. 

I was excited for the event to start, but first, I had to check out Mr. Borlongan’s ongoing exhibition in the gallery. 

I also checked out the various artworks which are permanently displayed in the gallery.  

Finally, it was time for the ArtSpeak! Mr. Borlongan introduced his wife, Plet Bolipata to the audience. She’s also an artist.  

He introduced her as his cheerleader. 

As indicated in my notes, Mr. Borlongan has chronicled the everyday and turned them into art. He has emphasized the importance of always bringing a sketchbook so that his drawing and artistic process never ends. He also chose to focus on the everyday as this is timeless and can surpass art trends and movements. 

I had an insightful morning. Thank you for inspiring me, Ateneo Art Gallery and Mr. Elmer Borlongan!

Coffee and Cheese

Yesterday, I had my usual toasted naked longganisa with brown rice and coffee at Breakfast Bin. 

I was feeling adventurous so I ordered a new dessert to end my delicious meal. I had coffee and farm cheese ice cream from Papa Diddi’s. IT WAS HEAVENLY and the combination was a true winner.  

If you ever find yourself in Maginhawa, remember this combination. Longganisa, coffee, and cheese will make your day! 

With Kate

I saw my goddaughter Kate yesterday and for a few minutes, my life was filled with cuteness!

Being with her inspires me to see the world with eyes that look for happiness and pastel colors. 

I hope to see Kate again so I can feel young and cute enough to be hugged by this little girl. 

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.