Sunnies Cafe UP Town

I am a huge fan of Sunnies Cafe. I first tried their food at their Bonifacio High Street branch, and I immediately fell in love with their unique California-cool ambience and hip eats. I also became a regular at their Megamall branch, which became my go-to cafe whenever I am in Ortigas. So you can simply imagine my joy when I found out that they finally opened their UP Town Center branch, which is near my place!

Finally, there is millennial pink goodness close to home! 

I ordered the caramelized spam rice bowl, which never disappoints. I soaked in their hipster interiors and enjoyed my meal.  

I consider eating out by myself as sacred me-time. It is during my solo dates that I get to discover my interests, plans, and upcoming goals. It is fortunate that I have developed the habit of recording my musings during these outings, and these frequently turn into my future blog entries.  

After my meal, I took a selfie at their famously pink washoom. 

I had a lovely time as always at Sunnies Cafe, and I will definitely be back! Here’s to more millennial pink plates and fabulous coffee shop realizations. 

SCbit

Yesterday, I drove to the UP Main Library to catch SCbit, an exhibit to remember the UP Shopping Center. Despite having been burned down, many people have wanted to relive the memories in this nostalgic place. I myself had a lot of happy memories here even if I wasn’t a UP student. I drank strawberry chocolate shakes, ate plates of tapsilog, brought my books for photocopying, and even had a pair of fashionable specs made.

The facade of the library was lovely! 

I think it is commendable that students from the UP Library Science department have taken the time to put this exhibit together. They have diligently looked for photos, interviewed stakeholders, and researched at the University Archives.  

My photos were included in the exhibit! I am thankful that Nicole, one of the organizers, has reached out to me to ask for permission. I gladly said yes!

I miss the Shopping Center (SC), primarily for the food, cheap photocopy shops, and the Sarabia Optical Shop, which was where I got these fashionable specs!

The exhibit was a walk through memory lane. It was touching to see the efforts of the students in putting this exhibit together. I hope that the SC will be rebuilt so that more people will be able to have a one-stop shop in the middle of UP again. 

St. Joseph’s Blessings

Yesterday, I celebrated Labor Day and St. Joseph’s feast day by visiting the Pink Sisters Convent in Quezon City. It is incidentally dedicated to St. Joseph. 

I prayed for blessings, opportunities, and love! 

I then proceeded to Breakfast Bin for a hearty bowl of toasted naked longganisa, egg, and talangka brown rice. I also read You are a Badass  by Jen Sincero, which is very timely in my life. My BFF kindly lent me his copy, and it is helping me process things. 

I also took advantage of the traffic-free roads and drove to St. Clare Monastery. I echoed my prayers and gave thanks for everything good in my life.  

This May, I want to grow as a person and worker. I am thankful and excited for all the opportunities I have yet to receive. Here’s to a productive month ahead! 

Kate, Pasta, and Gelato

I recently got to have lunch with my Lucas relatives. The highlight of my day was that I got to spend time with my goddaughter, Kate!

At two years old, she’s already a seasoned selfie pro. 

She diligently wears the watch I gave to her last Christmas. She also accepts edible gifts, like cookies. 

I ate this delicious bowl of aglio olio pasta as Kate watched cartoons on her iPad. Amici is always ideal for family gatherings. 

We took more selfies between our mains and desserts. 

I got my usual mint chocolate gelato and coffee for dessert. 

Kate seemed fascinated with my handcrafted bangles! She tried removing them, but they’re practically attached to my wrist. Heck, I cannot even remove or tighten them without the assistance of a strong guy. 

I had fun with Kate, and it will be her third birthday soon. Time flies indeed, and I look forward to taking more selfies with her as the years go by. 

Sunday Sunshine

Yesterday, I started my day with a brisk walk at UP.  I took this selfie at home to motivate me before my workout, and believe it or not, this tactic works whenever I feel too sleepy to move in the morning. 

I enjoyed my walk as I listened to early 2000’s music. 

I satisfied my craving for beef tapa by eating at Breakfast Bin. I customized my tapa rice bowl with brown talangka rice!

It was delicious and filling! 

It was my first time to try their tapa and I am now a fan! I will definitely continue working out and eating breakfast so that my days will continue to be sunny, bright, and full of opportunities.  

Toastmasters and Food Trip

Yesterday, I ate breakfast at Mister Kabab. I had my usual special chicken chelo kabab, double ground! It was the perfect way to start my day. 

Then, I drove to the Pink Sisters Convent in New Manila to pray for my intentions. 

I was my BFF’s guest to the Camanava Brunch Toastmasters Club meeting at Kitchen of Cakes and Coffee. 

It was actually enjoyable!

Of course, I ate dessert first. Their cheesecake was to die for. 

For lunch, I had the salted egg linguine. It is must-try!

Then, my BFF and I had crepe and lemonade. I had my usual strawberry choco crepe at Crazy Crepes. 

That was a fun Saturday! Here’s to more happy days ahead. 

Hey Jude

I visited the National Shrine of St. Jude Thaddeus the other day to pray for my urgent personal intentions. 

It was a Thursday, so I was able to hear mass.

I also stayed for the novena prayer to St. Jude. 

I joined the crowd after the novena in approaching the statue of our patron. 

I visit St. Jude whenever I can because he is a powerful intercessor. I am praying for needs which are beyond my comfort zone. Please keep me in your prayers as well. I hope that I  will receive the blessings that I am yearning for. 

Public Forum on the Philippine Competition Act

Yesterday, I was privileged to attend the Public Forum on the Philippine Competition Act at the Rosemary Ballroom of the City Garden Grand Hotel, Makati. 

I began my day with knitting.  

Then, I registered and enjoyed the view with a cuppa. 

It was a productive day filled with insightful talks on the Philippine Competition Act (PCA). I understand the PCA more after in-depth explanations have been presented by key experts from the Philippine Competition Commission (PCC). 

As a consumer, it is important to know my rights to a free market that is fair, just, and kind to enterprises. Also, I am proud that our government has the PCC which is actively educating the public regarding the PCA through forums and talks such as this one.  

I am thankful to have been fortunate to attend this seminar. I enjoy these events because they sharpen the saw, so to speak. I also learn from experts from relevant fields. I am sure that the learnings I will gain will benefit me when I rejoin the corporate world soon.  

Until the next seminar! 

Purposeful Inspiration

I received a thank you card from my World Vision sponsored child. I treated her family to Noche Buena last Christmas. My gift also let her choose a present for herself. I was humbled when she asked for a water bottle as her gift.  

I always appreciate the letters I receive from my sponsored child because it allows me to see the bigger picture in life. I am looking for a corporate job not just to sustain myself, but also to support a child’s education. I am thankful that World Vision lets me share my blessings in the simplest manner. Being a child sponsor for eleven years has taught me the value of sharing and giving. I will never stop supporting World Vision for as long as I have the means to do so. 

In addition to that, I also received thank you letters from the Pink Sisters. They always pray for me, as I frequently drop by their convent to give them my letters containing my intentions. I am thankful that these sisters keep me in mind, and yes, I will continue visiting their convent for as long as I can!

Sharing, praying, and giving are just some of the ways that work can be meaningful. Having an income will let me support these causes, which will in turn inspire me to work hard and persevere in my job. It is my prayer that I will land the best job for me soon, and that I will continue to support my sponsored child and sisters in Christ.  

Corned Beef and St. Clare

Yesterday, I tried another dish at Breakfast Bin which is not their toasted naked longganisa. I ordered corned beef, egg, and brown rice. It was delicious!  

I love eating at Breakfast Bin because the staff are attentive to my needs. They also whip up the tastiest all-day breakfast meals that keep me coming back for more. 

After my meal, I went to my dentist for cleaning and catching-up. Then, I proceeded to St. Clare Monastery for my weekly (I try my best!) visit. 

The Monastery also has a statue of St. Jude, whose intercession I always implore.  

Whenever I feel challenged, I go to safe places like Breakfast Bin and St. Clare. I nurture my soul by nourishing my body and praying for my intentions. It also pays to give thanks for all the blessings I continue to receive.  

May you also find your own rituals to renew your spirit and reset your system.  

Talangka Rice and Cheese

I decided to shake things up a bit when it comes to my regular toasted naked longganisa at Breakfast Bin. I requested for talangka brown rice instead of my usual plain one. I knew it would be delicious, but I was unprepared for the way it amazed me. 

It was the best longganisa meal I have ever had! 

For dessert, I walked to next-door neighbor Papa Diddi’s for another unusual ice cream combo. This time, I chose cheese closed and tsokolate de Cagayan.  

Again, I was unprepared for the deliciousness that ensued. The cheese chunks blended well with the strong tsokolate taste. It was a full-bodied ice cream experience I will definitely enjoy again. 

I still have more flavors and combinations to explore in my upcoming visits!

If you feel that there is something missing in your life, or if you feel bored, eat something new! It is inexpensive, nourishing, and great for your soul. Post pictures and share your food trips so that more people will be inspired to enjoy eating new treats as well!

Estate Planning Talk

I attended the Ayala Rewards Circle (ARC) Estate Planning Talk at Seda Vertis North to educate myself on managing my family’s estate. I was there early, so I was able to sit back, eat breakfast, knit, and enjoy my cuppa. 

I learned heaps from the seminar, and I am really cautious with how I manage my resources. I am conservative in terms of investing, as I operate with a Risk Management-orientation. I hope to learn more from future seminars on how to be practical and intelligent with estate planning, asset management, and resource allocation. 

April Coffee with Diane

Yesterday, I visited my late friend Diane’s vault for our monthly coffee date. 

I decorated her vault with rhinestone stickers which I bought from VC Trading. 

I was fresh from my workout and I didn’t have much time since I still had to prepare for a conference. 

I also showed her my current knitting project. It is in her favorite color- red!

Visiting Diane each month reminds me that life is too short. I have to do everything I want with the time given to me in order to maximize my life. Thank you Diane for always looking after us and for reminding me to live life to the fullest. See you next month!

From Alabang to Manila

I went to Alabang after my breakfast forum at the AIM the other day. I took the P2P to Alabang Town Center, and I took sips of coffee in my tumbler during my trip. 

I visited Common Room ATC because my visit to their Katipunan branch earlier this week was not enough! 

I bought the necklace and wood chips for my mom, who bought me so many goodies from her recent trip to Osaka, Japan. I got myself cord ties from Punch Crafts and a skinny brass ring from Blue Flame. 

I recently misplaced one of my Nawa rings, and I was eager to replace it with another locally-made ring. Luckily, Common Room has a handmade brass ring in my size. Blue Flame is also a brand close to my heart as I have previously bought a sterling silver necklace from this maker. 

I also spent some time at the seesaw outside the store. 

I took the P2P back to Makati. I checked out this Pia minaudiare from my friend Rafe’s brand. 

I was hungry, so I had a couple of silvanas from Dumaguete-born bakeshop Sans Rival. I had the butter and choco silvanas. Both were so good! However, I was partial to the butter variant. It was perfection. 

I then took a sidetrip to St. Jude to pray for my personal intentions. 

On my way home, I saw these K9 poodles! 

Here’s to more adventures in search of handmade, good food, and blessings from up above!

Business Insights Over Breakfast

Yesterday, I was fortunate enough to attend the BIRLA Breakfast Forum at the Asian Institute of Management. The topic was Traversing the Family Business Path: Insights from Non-Family Leaders. I was there early, so I was able to register and eat brekkie before the event began. 

The speakers were business leaders from the Philippines’ top corporations. 

I have learned from these leaders that trust is important in a family business. Non-family leaders do not necessarily have to use (and show) their talents all the time. They must be good listeners and balanced thinkers in order to win their employer’s trust and confidence. A family business cannot grow if they will not hire the best talent, and this means expanding beyond their family ties. It is also important to hire people with skills who could complement the family’s vision and values.

I have learned heaps from this morning, which I will eventually apply on my future corporate job. Most of my roles were in family businesses, and as a non-family employee, I did have to earn their trust by listening to their requirements and advice. I look forward to attending more business forums at the AIM.  

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.