Singing Along to Life’s Music

Yesterday was all about doing the things that make me happy. 

I started my day with  workout, and a small treat for myself at M&S.  

I also got these cherry earrings from Papemelroti. The best part about them? They’re made by artisans from the Kidney Friends Foundation!

I crocheted while waiting for my truffle penne pasta at Amici.  

And I spent an arfternoon with Ella and the other buddies at Barkin Blends Dog Cafe!

I dropped by legendary textile store VC Trading to purchase yarn.  

And then, I proceeded to the Smart Araneta Coliseum for the Aegis concert! 

I am such a fan because their songs speak to the heart. My favorite Aegis song is Luha.  

I watched it with my high school bff Luti, who joined me for dinner at Cafe Adriatico. 

We both had lengua estofado.  

And we also had Claude’s Dream! 

Finally, it was time for our concert.  

I even purchased their greatest hits album.  

Oh, we had a magical time singing along to all their songs.  

I enjoyed the things that matter to me, and it was great to spend it with my best friend. I hope that I will have more chances to simply be myself and enjoy the things that bring me joy! 

Faith and Crafting

Yesterday, I carried on with my auditing duties. I went to Pasig City Hall, and I stopped by their chapel after completing my tasks.  

It was fun to say hello to images of my patron saints, St. Clare and Padre Pio. 

They also had a beautiful image of St. Joseph.  

I also had to pose with their summery entrance! 

Then, I revived my old planner and jazzed it up with fresh kikki.K inserts, and various sticky notes, stickers, and washi tapes. 

Then, I took my paints out and sketched some food I recently had.  

I stamped the wrong date. It was supposed to be the 12th of July already. Handmade does have its imperfections! 

I was also able to finish this cowl using cotton yarn from Dreams Yarnshoppe and my Furls hook purchased from The Attic Yarn and Craftery. 

And just like my status quo, I ended my productive day on a high note- by beginning again, with fresh yarn in a fresh aqua green shade.  

Scheduling Joy

I dealt with errands yesterday morning, and I must say that I adulted with only good vibes in mind. 

I crocheted again in between my meetings. I am beginning to understand why so many people are hooked on crocheting, pun intended! It is a time warp, and it feels good to hold the yarn in my hands while stitching this scarf.  

Then, I had lunch at Yoshinoya. Their Go Solo meal was a delicious combo consisting of their beef bowl, coffee jelly, and iced tea. 

After accomplishing another round of errands, I went crazy at the stationery section of Landmark Department Store. They have so many cute and affordable stuff for planner girls like me!

They have washi tapes and sticky notes! 

Van Gogh notebooks were available in various prints and sizes.  

Thankfully, I exercised some restraint and just bought three washi tapes and three books of sticky notes.  

Then, I went to The Craft Central.  

I bought more planner essentials: two washi tape holders, one frosted divider, and a ruler divider.  

I am so excited to fill my planner with new schedules! For now, I am buying the basics. 

I am reviving my planner journey with washi tape!

I wrapped-up my day with dinner at Ok Street, the new Korean food court at Vertis North. 

I ordered their kimchi fried rice. It was tasty and filling! I’ll definitely go back.  

I am building my planner because even if I am constantly blogging on the go, I still prefer using pen and paper to organize my life. By buying these bits and pieces, I am giving myself room to customize my agenda. Having a planner lets me enjoy a tangible experience of “fixing” my day. In the next few weeks and months, I will be going through changes which will surely make me learn, improve, and grow. For now, I am planning, hooking, and scheduling things. 

There will always be room for happiness, one day at a time.  

Opportunities Ahead

Yesterday was a busy one. I worked out, then I dressed for success as I had meetings throughout the day. 

For merienda, I had this coffee chip bun and coffee combo at Country Style. It was a delicious pairing, I must say!

The coffee bun was as big as my face!

My meetings went well, so I went to church for thanksgiving mass. 

And I had creamy curry beef rice and bulgogi soup at Bon Chon. 

Also, I enjoyed crocheting this cowl in between my meetings. It is still a work in progress, just like me.

I am eager to welcome opportunities into my life, one day at a time. For now, I am crocheting, enjoying life, and staying positive that the odds will be in my favor. 

Pixie with a Purpose

Yesterday, I worked out at 6am. 

I ate my favorite toasted naked longganisa with brown talangka rice at Breakfast Bin. 

Then, I bought some office essentials from Human Nature. I am especially excited to use my Mori Notes gadget case in a cheery pineapple print. It is designed to smaller gadget essentials like cords and plugs. 

It is sewn by underprivileged artisan moms, allowing them to earn as they work from home.  

I also had coffee... 

...and I finished crocheting this gray cowl for my friend Bernadette, who’s celebrating her birthday this week. 

I also started crocheting a cowl in sky blue and pink hand-dyed yarn.  

I do like investing in quality items, but occasionally purchase trendy things too. I bought the Adeline sling bag from local vegan leather goods store, The Satchel Diva. Their bags are lightweight and on-trend, which are two factors I look for in an everyday handbag. 

Then, I went to the dermatologist... 

...and had my pixie trimmed at the salon next door. 

I offered eggs and prayed for my intercessions at St. Clare.  

And I had a lovely late lunch at Barkin Blends Dog Cafe.  

They have doggo burgers as take-away treats for puppers at home. 

I had their delicious carbonara... 

...and latte! 

And I had the best time with their doggo buddies.  

I couldn’t resist my favorite dog Ella!  

Finally, I ended my day with a 90-minute massage at our neighborhood spa.  

I enjoy self-care and crafting because I feel centered after doing the things I love. I can’t wait to go back to work after unwinding with some fiberarts, dogs, and retail therapy. That’s how I live balanced life, with a little pixie dust for good measure.  

Hooking, Burning, and Yearning

I started my day by crocheting while waiting for my workout to start. 

Then, I satisfied my craving for cheap pares by having it for breakfast.  

I continued hooking while having cofeenut.  

I later rode the BGC bus (which was efficient and comfortable) to Net Park.  

I took a few selfies  (using self-timer!) at the lobby. I was wearing a scarf that I quickly knitted using chunky yarn and 10mm needles from Dreams Yarnshoppe. 

Then, I proceeded to Manila House...

...for the Katutubo Pop-Up Market!  I bought a woodland garland for my mom from Knitting Expedition, one of my favorite social enterprises. Their stuffed animals and home trimmings were handknit in Ifugao. I also joined their Knitting Adventure at Banaue last February!

I caught up with some of my mom’s friends from the fashion industry (she used to be a ramp model).

I also saw Candy Reyes, Knitting Expedition’s girl boss and master knitter! 

I also looked around the fair. Everything was beautiful. I saw this wallpaper in the premises, and I loved it because it was somewhat related to my crocheting and knitting. 

I sat down for a cuppa. 

And I transferred to Fully Booked to enjoy their sale.

I wrapped up my Sunday with a visit to the PAWS Pet Cafe. My favorite shelter dog Ruff was there! If you want to adopt him, please contact PAWS!

I also saw other PAWS dogs in the cafe.  

I ordered my favorite tapa from The Craft Central Cafe. 

I had a productive Sunday! I worked out, crocheted, and supported my favorite advocacies. The way I see it, is that I get to hope and yearn for a brighter future for myself by sharing my blessings with social enterprises and causes I believe in. I am claiming that more blessings will pour into my life in the coming days, weeks, and months! 

Crafting My Love Story

Yesterday, I started my Saturday with a workout...

...pancit and lumpia for breakfast...

 ...and coffeenut (coffee brewed in coconut water and served with coconut milk and coco sugar) and crocheting. 

Then, I bought a new project bag from the weekend bazaar at my local park. The smallest pouch bag for my crochet projects costs only P35. 

I got one in this cheery pineapple print. 

I strolled around the tropical garden inside the park. 

After lunch, I proceeded to the Singles Recollection hosted by The Feast Quezon City community. 

I enjoyed worshipping...

 ...and knitting!

I was impressed with the effort and love that went into the food prep. I mean, look at those handwritten post-its!

I got this one, because it is so me. I believe that each day is a new opportunity!

I discovered my love for crocheting and knitting while I became single a few months ago. I have also been doing creative journaling through food illustration.

My handmade lifestyle has cultivated self-love, and I have never looked back. Crafting my love story starts in affirming and validating myself, one creative output at a time. I know I am ready to love again because I know how to make myself happy in the first place. For now, I am focusing on being myself, and sharing my story to you all. 

Crocheting Inspo

Yesterday, I took my Furls handmade crochet hook for a spin. I was delighted with the lack of drag and its comfortable grip. The wood was warm on my hand, and my yarn just seemed to flow along with each stitch. 

I am definitely a Furls fan and I am glad that I finally bought one of their crochet hooks. Their cult following is definitely telling the truth about these babies.  

I finished this short cowl in a day using my new hook. I hold my Furls with a pen grip, and my hand never felt any strain or discomfort. I am floored! And I can’t wait to crochet again. 

Investing in quality tools will get you far. Read reviews first if you are unsure before investing on notions and materials. I make it a point to choose quality over quantity whether it’s for my knitting needles, crochet hooks, or watercolors. Choose tools that inspire you and craft what’s in your heart. You will definitely be motivated to create more! 

Stitching Time

Yesterday, I had lunch at Bonchon. I wore my crocheted infinity scarf like this as the air conditioning was more chilly than usual. 

I had my go-to order, the creamy curry bibimbowl.  

Then, I did some knitting while having coffee. 

By the time I got home, I received my new stash of yarn. I purchased my new fiberarts tools online from The Attic Yarn and Craftery. 

I appreciate loyalty cards, so I’m all for The Attic’s funATTIC Circle card. 

Also, check out all these freebies!  

I was so happy with my new yarns and Furls hook. 

Yes, I finally bought my first handmade Furls crochet hook!  I got one in 4mm blackwood. It is completely made by hand. I have also tried crocheting with it last night, and its ergonomic design is perfect for pen grip crocheters like myself. The hype is real!

I encourage myself to be creative by continuously investing in quality fiberarts yarns and notions. I am happy with my supplies for now, and they will surely tide me over until I have a regular income again. For now, I am knitting, crocheting, and journaling my life as I know it. 

Paint, Sip, Laugh

Yesterday, I had fun painting at Sip and Gogh. I paid for my own session, and it came with a glass of red wine and a platter of salami and cheese. 

I enjoyed it so much! I chose to paint the Eiffel Tower because Paris is always a good idea. 

I also brought my knitting work-in-progress with me. It was awesome to see my knitting work along with the cafe’s colorful painting selections. 

I will let the photos speak for themselves, as my joy can really be seen in them. I also knitted the beanie which I wore during the session, just because the yarn matches the color of red wine.  

I was so inspired that I also sketched my breakfast and bar chow on my traveler’s notebook.

Indeed, when I spark my creativity, it cascades on to my other crafts like knitting and food illustration. I can see how crafting has made me happier and more resourceful. I look forward to more handmade lifestyle moments, and I hope to witness the positive effects across the other aspects of my life. 

Burning and Praying

Yesterday, I started my day with Zumba... 

 ...and breakfast at my local park. 

I had to swing by the Pink Sisters Convent to give thanks and pray for my intercessions for the month of July.  

Later during the day, I had lunch at Happon Ramen House. 

I han their chicken ramen broth soup...

 ...sukiyaki donburi...

 ...and gyoza. 

I sketched my lunch and enjoyed my meal. 

I also explored the building. Since I have a thing for doors, I found this bar charming.  

Then, I proceeded to my usual waxing salon. I never appreciated its coziness until now. 

I was also wearing a scarf I crocheted, so I felt confident. 

I ended my day out with a visit to St. Clare. 

I enjoyed my day out and took notice of the details which I previously took for granted. Indeed, when I appreciate the fine print in life, everything will be in screaming color. I look forward to a myriad of hues as I explore possibilities in the coming days! 

Zumba and Social Good

Yesterday, I woke up early for another Zumba workout.  

Taking selfies before driving to the park keeps me motivated to burn more calories. Don’t ask me why. It just works for me.  

I followed it up with a hearty brekkie.  

It started raining by the time I arrived at Human Nature to buy my social enterprise-made toiletries and products for the month of July.  

Later during the day, I enjoyed a full meal at Cafe Shibuya. I had their weekday combo of truffle mushroom soup, truffle pasta, and salad. For dessert, I had the honey toast in baby size and a steaming hot cuppa.  

And I sketched my lunch on my Traveler’s Notebook, because a meal that delicious deserves to be documented.  

Working out and supporting social enterprises are just two of my passions. I continue to share with you my interests and inspirations because it is my hope that more people will find meaning in their lives in the same way that I find joy in my habits. I will keep you posted here on my blog, so that you can also be inspired to have better days ahead! 

Prayer, Paws and Empowerment

Yesteday, I worked out, and had chicken sopas and quick fried beef for breakfast at Tropical Hut. 

I also got four vintage saucers at my local weekend market for Php20. 

Then, I attended The Feast for the second time. 

I felt so blessed! 

I also knitted while worshipping. Talk about offering my handiwork to the Lord!

Then, I had the cheesy meaty spaghetti from Mister Donut. It was delicious! 

I spent time at the PAWS Pet Cafe to meet some puppers.  

I met Dr. Argus, Dr. Leo, and Dr. Torby, who are part of the Doctor Dogs program. They visit schools and hospitals to bring cheer and love. 

Then, a fourth Doctor Dog, Storm joined us for some cuddle time.  

I also went to the dermatologist’s for some acne care. Here I am with Melody, the fab lady who assists me whenever I’m there.  

Let me rock these pimple injection stickers! 

I dropped by the new branch of Books for Less at The Block. It’s a wasteland for all ages. They have secondhand books and stationery items!

Look at these handmade secret book boxes!

They also have a handsome shelf of vintage books. 

After buying a pre-loved book, I headed over to The Craft Central to purchase this gorgeous yarn. 

And, I was able to score this killer duo of Good Night Stories for Rebel Girls books at 20% off at the Fully Booked sale!

I am always happy with new books.  

For dinner, I had my favorite toasted naked longganisa at Breakfast Bin.  

And I ended my Sunday with a full-body massage at my nearby spa.  

I had a lovely Sunday. I spent it worshipping the Lord, hanging out with volunteer doggos, taking care of myself, and buying for soul food (read: books and yarn). I also sketched my food. 

Life should be spent well, with a balance of work, leisure, and self-care. There is nothing more empowering than the fact that I can support my favorite causes and practice my faith in one day. Here’s to better days ahead!

Saturday Finds

Yesterday, I woke up before the alarm clock was supposed to ring. I headed to my Zumba class with zest and energy which I haven’t felt in ages. 

I must say, this morning person project has really motivated me to get moving! 

I also walked around the weekend tiange or bazaar. 

I saw some colorful bags.  

And I found a stall that sells Japanese surplus ceramics. 

By the time I got home to freshen up, I was already looking forward to do some creative journaling. 

I sketched this part of our townhouse on my Traveler’s Notebook. 

Later during the day, I had this Dos Espesyal breakfast meal from Via Mare, which I also sketched.  

I had a fabulous Saturday. My finds inspired me to think of a more charmed life for myself. I also realized that food and home mean more to me now that I have been sketching them on my journal! Here’s to a more meaningful life, one that is sketched and painted in bursts of color.  

Friday at Home

Yesterday, I spent the whole day at home. I still woke up at 5am, and immediately got down to knitting. It effectively got me awake. 

Then, I finished crocheting this infinity scarf.  

I also reflected on the day’s Didicahe Youth entry.  

I got some work done, and had coffee at our pocket garden. 

I took some of my watercolors out to play.  

And I painted some of my mom’s plants.  

My mom happened to cook lunch, and I sketched my meal as well. 

After finishing my work tasks, I returned to my knitting and finished my beanie.  

I had a productive Friday at home. Just because I spent the day inside my comfort zone doesn’t mean that I slept all day. I accomplished all my tasks, and even had time for leisure. I look forward to waking up early again in the coming days and managing my time effectively along the way. 

Faith and Fitness

Yesterday, I started my day with another workout at 6am. 

I finally got the hang of waking up at 5am, so I can say that I have already adjusted to my plan to become a morning person. 

I ate breakfast again at Tropical Hut, and I had their corned beef breakfast meal.  

For lunch, I had the Salisbury steak with egg at Steak Break.  

Then, it was time for my thanksgiving church tour! A favor which I have been praying for has recently been granted. For my first stop, I dropped by St. Joseph’s Shrine at Anonas, Quezon City.  

Their giant statue of the sleeping St. Joseph always reminds me to stop worrying and lift it all up to God.  

Next, I offered eggs at St. Clare Monastery.  

I was able to spot my lucky number, 13! I queued at that platform number, because while I believe in God, I also think that creating my own luck is important. This blog has been an opportunity that I have created for myself. All the events, conferences, and offers which I have attended and received were because of my blog, and that is why I think that luck is merely claiming the chances which I have allowed to happen. 

Then, I visited the National Shrine of St. Jude Thaddeus. 

I viewed their collection of reliquaries.  

And for last stop, I went to the Our Lady of Montserrat Abbey.  

It is overwhelmingly beautiful.  

For dinner, I had the limited edition herb and bacon pizza from S&R. 

I enjoyed working out, eating well, sketching my food, and touring churches! I hope that I will continue to create more opportunities for myself in the coming days. For now, allow me to carry on with mindful living as I ease my way into the daily grind.  

Morning Person

I have been waking up at 5am for the past few days, and I should say that I am proud of my transition into being a morning person. I am still committed to my workouts, and lately, Zumba has been my secret weapon against sluggishness. 

I even wake up refreshed and more confident to face the day ahead.  

I have been eating heavy breakfasts such as this breakfast burger steak from Tropical Hut.  

I have also gone back to sketching my food!

I have also found time for crochet. My Pony bamboo hook and yarn were purchased from Gantsilyo Guru. 

So far, the bamboo hook has been kind to my hand. It is weightless and comfortable to use. 

For lunch, I had chorizo and olives pasta and an americano from Mary Grace. I also sketched my food and knitting. 

Since I had extra time, I squeezed in some yarn shopping at The Craft Central. Buying yarns in person allows me to be inspired with the possibilities I can create with my hands. It cannot replace the tactile shopping experience which online shopping can never offer. 

I am fueling my imagination by sketching, knitting, crocheting, and working out! I get to accomplish more now that I am back to being a morning person.

If you also want to finish more tasks during the day, wake up earlier than usual! Before you know it, you are already committed to becoming the morning person you never knew you could be. 

Declaration of Abundance

For my brush lettering drills yesterday, I copied The Feast Declaration of Abundance on my Traveler’s Notebook. It was a fruitful exercise as I found myself absorbing the prayer more with every stroke. 

I am claiming that God will bless me more in the coming days. For now, I am living a meaningful life as best as I could.  

Try praying the declaration of abundance too and see for yourself how God can bless you beyond your wildest dreams! 

Starting Over

I have been training myself to wake up early. While I have always been consistent with my daily workouts, I felt that the best way to practice being a mornng person was through Zumba at 6am. 

I have been coping with my 5am wake up time so far and it feels incredible! 

I also make it a point to eat a hearty breakfast after exercising. And coffee helps me adjust to the early morning lifestyle. 

I also started knitting a new scarf featuring chunky yarn and 10mm knitting needles from Dreams Yarnshoppe. 

Every new project feels like starting over. Just like my new wake up time, I am adjusting to the changes in my life. So far, Zumba and knitting have been helpful in my transition to becoming a morning person again.  

My recovery lunch was the corned beef hash at Pancake House. I knitted as well in between spoonfuls.

And I sketched my lunch on my Traveler’s Notebook. 

I embrace change with creativity and fitness. Here’s to more early mornings and sunny opportunities! 

Blood Donation # 3

Yesterday, I donated blood for the third time.  

It was my second blood donation at the Philippine Red Cross Quezon City Chapter. My first time at the said chapter was last March, while my first-ever blood donation was last December at St. Jude. 

Please consult your doctor first before donating blood. You will also be asked to undergo screening before your actual blood donation.  

Be sure to eat heavy breakfast before donating blood, and do not workout on the day of your donation.  

As usual, I received a free snack after completing my donation.  

For lunch, I indulged on the beef and onions set meal at Nord’s Bread Hub while knitting.  

I also sketched my meal on my Traveler’s Notebook. 

I had a lovely day, and donating blood always fills my heart with joy. If you are healthy, please consider donating blood as well. It will help save a life, and you will also be able to share the blessing of health.