Skin Dare

​Yesterday, I paid my dermatologist a visit. I wouldn’t say that I was thrilled to be back for an acne treatment, but I am happy that my last visit for the said purpose was last year. I am fortunate that my skin is definitely improving with skin care products from both my dermatologist’s clinic (Flawless acne toner) and Human Nature’s acne defense line. 

Going for my skin care treatments make me feel more confident with my imperfections. Here I am with a pimple patch on my chin and a bare face from the clinic.  I am lucky to have access to affordable skin care and medical treatments. I think the next step is to own my imperfections and rock them everyday. 

Being confident is not easy, but it starts with what I have. I have a face than I am happy to bare even after a treatment. I keep on smiling even when times are rough. I move on from pain but I learn from my mistakes. 

At the end of the day, confidence is showing up no matter what, and controlling my reactions even to things beyond my control.  

So what if I occasionally have acne? It’s normal, and it’s treatable. I have skin care products that manage that, and keep me fresh. If you also suffer from acne or any skin condition, please don’t despair! There are dermatologists who can help you, and products that could ease your way into recovery. We are more than the skin we are in. Use your skills to propel yourself forward, while taking care of yourself.

Dare to be confident today! 

PAWS Pet Cafe Sunday

Yesterday, I got to spend another afternoon with dogs at the the PAWS Pet Cafe, a pop-up fundraising event at Vertis North. Donations are welcome in cash and in kind! For every P200 donation, you will be able to spend forty-five minutes with PAWS Doctor Dogs, who are trained to be sociable around fellow animals and humans alike. In fact, these Doctor Docs visit hospitals and schools to provide cheer and happy vibes. 

I was able to spend time with Storm... 

...and Bailey, who thinks that he’s a lapdog!  

While the Doctor Dogs are not adoptable as they already have furever homes, PAWS still has animals in ther shelter who are in need of foster or furever homes. Please consider adopting, fostering, donating, or volunteering! There is definitely a way that you could help the dogs and cats at the PAWS shelter.  

The PAWS Pet Cafe will run from Fridays to Sundays, 1-9PM, all weekends of June and July! Please consider donating and spending your precious time with their doctor dogs. Better yet, I hope that you will also adopt a pet instead of buying one from a breeder.  

Have a great week ahead, everyone! 

Knitting Expedition Starter Pack

I have previously shared with you about Knitting Expedition, a social enterprise that employs mothers from Banaue to knit toys, home decor, and now, bags! Their first bag, the Tiyargo (which means summer in Ifugao), was originally meant to be a beach or market tote. Since I am a city girl at heart, I have reinterpreted it as a carry-all, and yesterday, I brought it with me to Human Nature. 

The bag was chic and sturdy enough to house all of my purchases for the month of June. 

It can also stand on its own and hold its shape. For a multitasker, it’s quite a looker too. 

It also matches all my outfits, whether I am shopping in casual clothes, or hauling daily essentials on a work day. The possibilities seem endless for this bag, especially when its owner plans to carry it to opportunities along the way. 

If you also want your own Tiyargo bag, you may check out Knitting Expedition‘s social media pages, such as their well-curated Instagram account. Their website contains their catalog and online store. Do support this business, where every item has been knitted with love. Who knows, it might also encourage you to visit Banaue someday, just as I did!

Brush Lettering and Dinner with Friends

I finally got to update my brush lettering supplies with this haul from The Craft Central. I got a journal insert for my TN, a pack of black brush pens, and a practice workbook. 

I tried them all at The Craft Central Cafe and it was worth every penny! 

I had the good tapa from the cafe and it was good! My friend also told me that the chicken picatta was also delicious. 

Their latte was also to die for. 

It was a happy night with my friends in a crafty cafe! I hope to enjoy this again soon. 

PAWS Pet Cafe

Yesterday was the first day of the PAWS Pet Cafe at Ayala Vertis North. It is an amazing experience for everyone to support the charity, and to possibly consider pet adoption as well. 

A purchase of at least P200 worth of dog food, food and drinks from select restaurants in the mall, and cash donation will entitle you to 45-minutes inside the pet cafe. 

Sebastian’s Ice Cream even has a doggos delight dairy-free ice cream for dogs!

I opted for the cash donation and enjoyed my afternoon with the dogs assigned during my stay. 

It was fun and relaxing!

I even fed them with treats. 

With Dr. Dong-dong...

 ...and Dr. Yan-yan!

The PAWS Pet Cafe runs until July 29, 2018, from Fridays to Sundays, 1-9PM at the lobby of Vertis North. Hope you can check it out soon!

St. Jude, San Beda, and Toastbox

Yesterday, I finally tried Habitual Coffee at Vertis North. I was with Luti, and interestingly, their playlist consisted of Pearl Jam’s greatest hits!

Their flat white was right on the money. It was bold and satisfyingly apt for the sunny afternoon, and grunge rock!

Next on our agenda was the novena to St. Jude at the patron’s shrine in Manila, where we were able to pray for our intentions and give thanks. 

Our next stop was the Our Lady of Montserrat Abbey inside San Beda University. I love the interiors of this quaint chapel, and it has a charm which is cleverly unexpected from the outside. 

It is still one of my favorite go-to places whenever I need silence and peace for reflection. 

For dinner, I had the blueberry and cream cheese toast with tea at Toastbox. They have closed their Philippine operations yesterday, and they begin operations today under a new name, called Nanyang. It will be a rebranded local version of a kopitiam. 

I definitely had a lovely day with my friend Luti and it was fun to explore churches and have coffee while listening to Pearl Jam. I was also lucky to have Toastbox for one last time. I will treasure today as it was truly meaningful. Hopefully, I can have more days like this. 

Lasagna Foodtrip

Yesterday, my friend Luti and I went to House of Lasagna to satisfy our cravings for their signature pasta dishes. 

We had the lasagna carbonara. It was good, but a little on the sweet side. Very Pinoy.   

Their garlic bread was just right to balance their cheesy lasagnas. 

We also got the beef lasagna. It was yummy and it tasted like childhood.  

It wasn’t the best lasagnas we’ve ever had, but they were good considering the affordable price points.  

Here’s to more food trips with great friends like Luti! 

How I Learned Food Illustration

A year has passed since I took my food illustration workshop with Teacher Jane Gaspar. Back then, I was still actively sketching my meals on my Traveler’s Notebook, and I wanted to hone my craft.

Enter Jane and her skills- she is one of the best food sketchers in the country today, and her Instagram account is a testament to her talent and dedication to her craft. 

My workshop with her last year was not only fun, it was also inspiring! I am not traditionally talented in art, but Jane somehow made me believe that I can draw my meals and post them online. Anyone who knows me well will not be surprised with this hobby of mine as I am such a foodie. I carried on with drawing, posting, and sharing my food illustrations, which I continue to do today.  

Take this meal I had a few months ago, which I haven’t shared with you yet. This was at Nord’s Bread Hub at SM The Block.  

I had this delicious salted egg and smoked fish pasta...

...and freshly brewed coffee.  

I illustrated my food as follows on my Traveler’s Notebook, using watercolor inserts from another local crafter and illustrator, AireesCreates.  

I still occasionally sketch my food, and it has given me joy. It is my hope that more people will learn this hobby and enjoy it as much as I do. Thus, I am promoting Jane’s Food Illustration workshop next month! 

I can guarantee that you will learn heaps from her, and she will guide you throughout the whole class. She will also continue giving you feedback and support online after the workshop. She has since become my friend and has been supportive of all my endeavours.  

I hope that you will consider attending the workshop. Jane is also open to private workshops and art classes. You may contact her through 09773296777 and jane.u.gaspar@gmail.com. 

Enjoy eating and sketching, friends!

Knitting Along

I am currently waiting for updates from the opportunities I have recently been exploring. While doing so, I have been reading, working out, eating right, listening to music, visiting Barkin’ Blends Dog Cafe, filtering my social media accounts (think deleting people whom I do not personally know and interact with), blogging, and of course, knitting. 

 I learned how to knit in Banaue with social enterprise Knitting Expedition. I realized that I work best without a pattern, so I knit scarves which do not require one. Freestyle knitting has brought me immense joy and peace, as it has enabled me to find solace in silence and repetitive stitches. Working with yarn has a calming effect. I have also brought my knitting projects with me, such as in seminars and conferences.

Knitting has also allowed me to meet other people, such as local online and offline sellers of yarns and notions. I have since become a buyer of yarns from Gantsilyo Guru, The Craft Central, and Dreams Yarnshoppe.

Knitting has also become a hobby that I could take alone with me, whether I am visiting family or catching up with my late high school friend Diane. I have even tried knitting while sipping beer and while waiting for my turn the dermatologist’s!

My favorite knitting pairing is definitely with Philippine craft coffee. Knitting while sipping Sagada coffee with my high school bestie at SGD was fun. Their coffee is to-die-for. 

I know that knitting will take me places, and life will surely get better for me. For now, I am taking my yarn and needles with me as I explore opportunities for me to grow, learn, and succeed.  

It is only the beginning. 

Faith and Furbabies

Yesterday, I decided to eat at Breakfast Bin again. I had my usual toasted naked longganisa with brown talangka rice. 

For dessert, I had scoops of rural chocolate and purple love (ube!) from Papa Diddi’s. 

I offered eggs and had some religious articles blessed at St. Clare Monastery. 

Then, it was playtime with the furbabies at Barkin Blends Dog Cafe! Ella, my favorite, was busy with other customers, so I spent time with their doggos. 

Here I am with Vader! 

Kaoroo seems to like my bracelet watch. 

With Ella’s son, Chocnut!

With Toffee!

Martha and Forrest!

And lastly, our sleeping angel Loki (he’s tame and nice, promise! This is just his default sleeping face).

I hope that you also have places to go to when you need to renew your faith and catch some furry hugs. For all the days in between, there will always be ice cream. Enjoy life, because it is definitely too short. 

Diane’s 31st

Yesterday, my friend Luti and I remembered our high school Diane. She would have been thirty-one. 

We went to UP Town Center for a food coma worthy of our late friend. She was a foodie as well, so we planned on eating nothing but the best. 

First stop was local favorite The Chocolate Kiss.  

Luti had the taco salad, while I had chicken satay with nasi goreng. Both of our orders were delicious!

We stopped by Biblio, a secondhand bookshop for good measure. Diane loved to read. 

I bought a bamboo toothbrush holder for my toothbrush made of the same material. I also got a pack of world map postcards. I was able to score free Sagada coffee with my purchases. 

Diane would have loved this bookstore, as well as their local coffee.  

Next, we went to Waffable by Rustic Mornings. I got an apple crumble waffle. It was amazing!

Later during the day, we had an early dinner of hotdog and mac n’ cheese at Starr’s. 

Then, we returned to The Chocolate Kiss for cake slices in honor of our birthday girl. 

Luti chose the devil’s food cake, while I had my favorite, dayap chiffon!

Happy birthday Diane!

Lastly, we passed by Diane’s final resting place. 

We all miss our friend. 

We hope that shes in a better place now. 

And someday, we will see her again. 

We hope that Diane likes our simple tribute to her in the form of yummy mains and cakes. It was a food coma to remember, and a celebration that we look forward to observing again next year.  

I hope that you will also make time for your late loved ones, and continue praying for their eternal repose. They are our guardian angels. Let us never forget them.  

#TheCrimeCircle

I am honored to be part of the Blog Tour for Filipino multi-genre author, Yeyet Soriano’s latest novel, The Crime Circle. I received a review copy from the author, and since I have previously read her other works, I already knew that this book will be awesome. 

I was not disappointed, as it was everything I needed during the past week. It helped me relax and get lost in the world of four novellas which told the story of four different crimes.  

Interestingly, the four novellas are released separately, enabling readers to have a dose of crime and mystery the whole year. The first novella, 3B4U, was already relased as an ebook on Amazon last March 24, 2018. 

The Crime Circle print versions are now available in its entirety via the local print order form and the international print order form. 

It follows the journey of David Roces from 90’s fictional rock god to social hermit. The unexplained deaths of his fellow rock musicians have caused him to disappear from public view. It was a fun read because I felt so invested in the story as I am a 90’s rock fan! I felt that Ms. Soriano has truly captured the grit and spirit of that era- and its tendency to be conducive to fan obsessions. 

3B4U is already available online through the local print order form, the international print order form, and via Amazon. 

Lost  follows the story of Zia, an artist who is haunted by childhood traumas. Her mother-figure, Steph, helps her emerge from the shadows to eventually overcome her demons. I enjoyed this novella because I also had some battles to fight in the past (didn’t we all?). It is truly inspiring to follow a female protagonist as she uses art to empower herself. 

Lost will be released as an ebook on Amazon on May 31, 2018. It is already available via the local print order form and the international print order form. 

 Climb was about Pablo, an IT professional/erotic fiction writer/subdivision heist intel broker. Wait, what? If that doesn’t interest you yet, then I don’t know what will! Also, I think anyone who lives in a subdivision will feel the chills as this novella narrates a series of home robberies. You will definitely rethink about who you trust, and how you secure your valuables.

It will be released as an ebook on Amazon on August 2018. It is already available via the local print order form and the international print order form. 

Last but not the least, Breathe was an entertaining read as it followed a fictional Filipino female crime author who writes about her memories of a childhood crime. I am happy to see female protagonists who have unconventional jobs, like crime authors!

It will be released as an ebook on Amazon on October 2018. It is already available via the local print order form and the international print order form.

So pour yourself a cup of coffee, and give your usual novels a break. Give The Crime Circle a chance as it was an engaging read. It will restore your faith in our country too, because while we have so much crime in our society, we also have a lot of goodness around us. Congratulations to Ms. Soriano on another successful novel- and I look forward to reading more from her in the near future. 

Solo: A Single Story

Yesterday I celebrated all things Star Wars at SM The Block. They had an exhibit with these stormtroopers and action figures. 

I had a chorizo plate for lunch at Mary Grace. It consisted of delicious local greens with smoked fish dressing, chorizo pasta, and dessert of the day, which was apple crumble.  

I went to Eastwood in the afternoon to eat dinner before my block screening. I ended up at Aysee (yes they have a branch a time Cyber Mall!), a popular sisig place near my uni, UA&P. I got the solo serving for P70, and it was still delicious after all these years. 

Before I knew it, it was time for my Solo: A Star Wars Story block screening for the benefit of our Gawad Kalinga-assisted brothers and sisters in Marawi. 

After the movie, I had Japanese pork curry for midnight snack at 7-Eleven. It was surprisingly delicious!

Being single doesn’t mean being lonely. I know how to enrich my life with meaningful experiences and yes, food! Of course, everyone, including myself, yearns for love. I hope to find that eventually, but for now, I am solo but not lonely.  

World Competitiveness Yearbook Results 2018

Yesterday, I was able to attend the World Competitiveness Yearbook Results conference for this year at the AIM. I am a keen follower of competition in business, and I was eager to learn about the position of the Philippines in the ASEAN region and among the world.

While our country has been performing well these past few years, I have learned these key points from the conference:

1. We need to strengthen our SME’s as this will drive innovation.  

2. We need more master and doctorate graduates in STEM in order to sustain innovation.  

3. We need to educate OFW’s and BPO workers (two of the most productive types of contributors to our economy) on how they could sustain their livelihoods outside of their jobs. This could be done by proper financial education, further academic studies, setting up their own businesses, and even being involved with trade organizations in their field. 

4. We need to learn how to learn, and in order for the Philippines to effectively sustain its competitiveness, we need to learn fast.  

It was an insightful conference, and I am sure that I will be able to apply these lessons as I continue blogging and exploring corporate opportunities. I look forward to attending more conferences and seminars to sharpen the saw and engage with business leaders. 

Gantsilyo Guru

Yesterday, I finally got to visit Gantsilyo Guru’s yarn shop at Pasig City. It is located along Shaw Boulevard, and it is best to search for it via Waze or Google Maps. 

I have already ordered from Gantsilyo Guru online, but being surrounded by her yarns is still better than the virtual store!

I was overwhelmed with her inventory and dreamy store. 

I went there for plastic knitting needles in 6mm, and I was not disappointed as Trey (Gantsilyo Guru herself) has them on-hand. 

Part of my knitting journey is the purchasing of yarns and notions. Being able to visit yarn and craft stores across Manila is thrilling and inspiring. I hope that you will also find a craft to commit to, and while you’re at it, visit stores which sell materials and handmade items. It will truly enrich your life and develop discipline which you never knew you had. 

Here’s to more stitches and yarn options!

Handcrafted you Harl’s

I am happy with my new handbag by Philippine social enterprise Handcrafted by Harl’s. They employ PWD’s to make leather goods by hand (cut, punch, and stitch). They do not have a catalog as they constantly update their on-hand inventory based on the available leather, and they never make the same bag twice as they are fond of using rough or rugged-finish leather. Each bag or wallet has unique markings and scratches which give them a distressed, vintage finish. 

My unlined handbag is perfect for my petite frame. It is roomy enough to hold my daily essentials, but still structured enough to make me look polished. The vintage look is something that will definitely improve with age. 

I was personally assisted by Harl and his wife, Sheila. My ordering process was quick and seamless. They were also helpful with my queries, as they do not have a catalog and I was only referring to the information they provided to make me decide which bag to pick. 

I am happy with my new bag and it is really beautifully made. It matches all my outfits and I can see that it has been designed well. I hope that you will also consider buying a bag from Harl (just message him via Facebook or Instagram) and other social enterprises in the near future! You will be able to empower others while getting something made with so much love. 

Pasta and Yarn

Yesterday, I was able to enjoy knitting while eating delicious Italian food at one of my usual restaurants, Cibo. This time, I tried something I’ve never had before- the penne al’amado with burrata. 

The braised beef beautifully complemented the cheese, resulting in a flavorful meal that brightened up my Monday. 

My red grape shake and coffee made lunch- and knitting- relaxing.  

After finishing my meal, I proceeded to a store I have never been to before: Dreams Yarnshoppe. I was looking forward to it, and I was not disappointed.  

The store had a killer inventory for such a small space! 

Prices were reasonable for the thrifty crafter.  

I ended up with a variegated ball of yarn and a pair of oversized needles to go with it. I also got some extra point protectors.

I was definitely happy, and I carried on with my shopping. I got a 90’s pair of sunnies to update my look.  

It was similar to my old pairs of sunnies during my childhood. I am happy that skinny frames are back because I can be my 90’s self again somehow! 

I am lucky to have been able to enjoy my Monday with delicious food, a memorable retail experience, and some crafting along the way. I hope to discover more stores to inspire me create, write, and explore!

Faith, Food, and Film

Luti and I were able to go to Padre Pio Center at Libis, Quezon City yesterday. She is one of my best friends from high school, and we both had intentions to pray for. 

It was a solemn, quiet place of worship. We did not feel like we were still stuck in the city.  

We were able to do some shopping at the chapel store. I stumbled upon these cookies made of leftover bits of host from Dauis, Bohol. I had to buy a few packs to try at home. 

The center has a spacious chapel where masses are held daily. 

We then proceeded to St. Clare Monastery for more prayers. 

We were also able to have our Padre Pio souvenirs blessed by the sister at the convent.  

A hearty lunch at Breakfast Bin followed our prayerful journey.  

Of course, dessert was obligatory thanks to the scorching summer heat. We both had ice cream at Maginhawa favorite, Papa Diddi’s. I had roasted strawberry and ube this time! 

After our meal, I went to UP Cine Adarna to watch my grade school friend Ida Anita del Mundo’s film K’na the Dreamweaver. 

It was a beautiful love letter to the T’boli people and their rich culture.  

Lake Sebu was stunning onscreen! 

There were several scenes of t’nalak weaving, which was my favorite part about this movie. I love local textiles, so I’m all for promoting the art of weaving on film. 

I was fortunate to be able to spend time to pray, appreciate delicious food, and watch a friend’s film. I also had the chance to do so with my friend Luti. Life is definitely more fun with a little help from our friends- and a lot of faith. 

Puppies, Coffee, and Cinnamon

I had a latte with my favorite dog Ella yesterday as Barkin Blends Dog Cafe. You can expect to see me here on Sundays as it has already become my default happy place. 

It was time for Ella’s nap so I let her snooze on my lap. 

Of course, the cafe also has other dogs! I couldn’t resist having pics taken with the whole gang again. 

After my fluffy adventure, I returned to Lil’ Orbits Mini-Donuts to have their cinnamon dozen. 

It was heavenly! 

If you want to be happy, spend time with dogs and have some mini-donuts! That formula has never failed me. 

Have a great week ahead, friends! 

Human Nature Launch

Yesterday, I attended the magalogue turnover and new product launch at Human Nature, a social enterprise that is close to my heart. The company launched its new anti-dandruff shampoo and reformulated body lotions. They also kicked-off their tenth year anniversary, which is happening this 2018.  

I sell Human Nature products via my online store. Please do support and buy today! The company provides employment to Gawad Kalinga residents and beneficiaries. Plus, the products are affordable and effective. My favorites are the sunflower oil and Radiant Grace moisturizer. 

Of course, a visit to Human Nature is never complete without their free-flowing brewed coffee (on the house!) from social enterprise Cafe Lugud. 

Light snacks were served and this Pinoy pasta was delicious!

I also met Gel of Aurae Natura, a new social enterprise which sells essential oils! Their products look promising, and I love their packaging. 

I continue to be a core advocate for Human Nature because they pay it forward. I have deep respect for a brand that champions the poor and encourages Filipinos to buy local. I hope that you will also buy Human Nature and experience the goodness today!