Pink Prayer Partners

Yesterday, I heard Sunday mass at the Pink Sisters Convent in Quezon City. I need all the prayers I can get as we have a sick family member, and I am  in need of strength and guidance during this difficult time. 

I also brought out my knitting project, for blessings to abound even in simple beginnings. Maybe God could bless my needles, but more than that, I hope that He will help me endure the challenges that we are facing. 

I sometimes question God why there are so many doors closing right now in our lives. But this photo shows that there are always windows that are open, and it is up to us to remain faithful that the light will reach us somehow. I trust that God will keep me strong and self-assured despite it all. And when this is all over, I hope that I can make my family proud. 

Self-Care Saturday

Yesterday, I got to swing by the Human Nature flagship store to check out this year’s Christmas boxes. As you know, I am a Human Nature core advocate. You may help me and Gawad Kalinga communities by purchasing fair trade toiletries from my online store.  

Thank you in advance for your support! 

Afterwards, I went to The Maker’s Cafe to clear my head with some knitting. 

This charming cafe, which is right beside my Alma mater Holy Family School, always gets me in a creative vibe. 

I ordered their chicken alfredo, which is pleasantly spicy. It was a delicious crafternoon companion. 

Then, I dropped by the hospital to care for our sick family member. Since the hospital stay will end tomorrow, I brought home this pretty pot of flowers in my Knitting Expedition tiyargo bag. 

I had dinner at Uno Cinquenta, which had a lowkey Christmas vibe. I totally like their minimalist decor. 

I also got my pixie trimmed at a nearby salon beforehand. 

I got a gyudon from the park’s Japanese resto.  

I got my legs waxed...

 ...then I drove home to finish knitting this cowl. I used mocha fusion yarn purchased from The Attic Yarn and Craftery. 

Self-care for me is a practical journey. If I don’t care for myself, then I won’t be able to effectively care for others too. It all begins with me, so I make sure that my needs are met. As you can see, I have simple rituals, and they do keep me grounded. I hope that you have also found your self-care routine, and that they also help you to be the best version of yourself. 

Surprise!

I got a surprise in the mail the other day. My favorite yarn store, The Attic Yarn and Craftery, sent me a replacement for my Furls 4mm Blackwood crochet hook. They also sent me a brand new journal which totally fits my style! 

Furls does have a solid customer support reputation, but still, The Attic still coordinated to them for me. They also shipped it to me for free, which was unexpected since I was prepared to shoulder the expenses. 

However, I truly appreciate their kind gesture. My hook accidentally got broken, and they were able to assist me in having it replaced.  

The journal and kind note also made me smile. 

I appreciate it when my favorite brands and the people behind them become my friends in real life.  There are a number of yarn stores in the country today, but The Attic has been kind enough to help me during a difficult time in my family’s life (we are caring for a sick family member). I am grateful for their kindness and generosity. I pray that they will have more loyal customers in the future!

Film and Sense

I have been taking care of a sick family member for the time being. It can be stressful, so I make sure that I take breaks every now and then. 

I frequent the hospital chapel for some silence in the middle of the day.  

I also knit to keep myself calm and cheerful.  

I also continue to watch films! The other night, I caught the showing of Tanabata’s Wife at UP Film. 

It was beautifully shot and acted. Mai Fanglayan, who won Best Actress at the Tofarm Film Festival for the title role, was there for a short Q&A session. 

Everyone in the audience receives button pins. It was a fun screening at UP, as always.  

I bought vanilla milk tea from Moonleaf Maginhawa after the screening. I was preparing for two more movies that night. 

I love the Christmas vibe at the cafe! 

I continued my movie marathon at Cinema Centenario. My second film for that night was On Your Wedding Day. It was a funny, light feature.  

My third and last film for the night was Liway. Glaiza de Castro was amazing as a rebel mom. She also sang Pagbabalik well. Overall, it was heartbreaking film with a wonderful ending. I ended up crying while enjoying my dinner. 

I ate mt Tornado Peri-Peri chicken to-go. It was delicious! It was the perfect companion to Liway. 

If you also love films, go for a marathon at your local micro cinemas!  Support your local restaurants and cafes too. And don’t forget to clean as you go, especially since micro cinemas are usually kept clean by the owners themselves. Be a good cinephile and do yourself a favor by watching the latest features today. 

Knitting Warmth

My family may be facing challenges with a sick parent, but I am still on fight mode! 

I am staying strong, and I keep myself cheerful by knitting.  

I also keep myself awake with coffee.  

I managed to finish this mini blanket for me my cinema runs. My legs always get chilly during my frequent movie nights so this is a real treat for me. 

Since I finished my cinema blanket, it’s time to begin knitting a new scarf!

I may be feeling cold in the hospital room, but I am with my family and I get to knit my own warmth and joy. I am certain that each challenge can be handled better with some balancing tactics such as hobbies. I am grateful that knitting has become an integral part of my self-care routine, and I hope that it could help you too in case you’re interested to take it up as a pastime!

Remembering My Name

The past month has been incredibly challenging. My schedule has been hectic, so I tended to forget myself when I’m busy with errands or tasks. It was a good thing that I finally received my order for this bespoke necklace with my blog name on it. 

I have coined up “speakoutsam” back in uni. I needed a new gmail address, so I came up with it, and the rest is history.  

I’ve always received compliments for my email address, and it eventually became my Instagram handle and blog url. I’ve embraced it through the years, and I took it to heart too- as I do so here on my blog, where I can speakoutsam everyday!

Remembering my name has enabled me to be strong amidst trials, to walk tall even when I’m scared, and to care for myself even when I’m exhausted.  

Eating right is indeed a form of self-care, and this plate of chicken chelo kabab from Mister Kabab has perked me up.

So friends, whenever you are down, a personalized item and a hearty meal always does the trick! Try it and see the difference this combo can make. 

Prayerful Paws

Last Monday, I proceeded to St. Clare Monastery right after my ADB gender event. I got to pray for my urgent intentions, as well as for the requests of my family. 

Then, I returned to Barkin’ Blends Dog Cafe for some puppy power!

Dogs really uplift my mood. Plus, I really like their milk tea. 

Before going home, I had vigan longganisa for dinner. I watched the cars go by, and felt relaxed just by going with the flow. 

I think that relaxation amidst difficulties is crucial. It lets me serve my loved ones better if I practice self-care. With a little help from some friendly dogs, a powerful intercessor, and comfort food, I know that I will be able to effortlessly keep my head above water. 

Energy Technology Innovation for Gender Equality

Yesterday, I attended the launch of publications by the Asian Development Bank’s Gender Institute. They are studying technology innovation and how it is forwarding the cause of gender equality in South Asia. 

But before anything else, I had my customary photo by the ADB auditorium.  

I had Vietnamese lunch at the bank’s cafeteria. My bun cha was delicious and healthful. 

I also crocheted while waiting for the event to begin. 

The bank is full of simple reminders to treat each other better. 

I was especially delighted that the event was held at the ADB Library. It is a striking venue. I have enjoyed hanging out here in between sessions during the conferences I have previously attended here.  

And I was happy that they served chocolate crinkles. The ADB crinkles are well-known, and many foodies have acknowledged them as the best in the country. 

The event was attended by colleagues in the bank, the academe, and other experts in gender studies. 

I have learned that energy innovation must always have the advancement of gender equality in mind. Without inclusiveness, we cannot say that there is innovation in the first place. Energy allows technology and development to be enjoyed by more people, including women. In order to advance energy innovation, there must be fair pricing, sustainable energy sourcing, technological development, and the inclusion of women experts in the conversation. 

I hope to have more learning opportunities at the ADB in the future! Thanks for having me!

Fluffy Sunday

I spent my sunny Sunday with my favorite dog Ella at Barkin’ Blends! I love cuddling with her because she makes me feel as if all is well in this world. 

Her expressive little face also cheers me up whenever I look at our pictures together. 

I also got to hug the other dogs, like Charlie the chocolate lab. 

Then, I watched a local film entitled To Love Some Buddy. It was entertaining and funny! 

I also had the entire section of the cinema all to myself. 

I ended my day with a whole body massage by a blind masseuse. It was a relaxing way to unwind after a week of tasks and errands. 

I look forward to more chances to unwind to balance my life and find more meaning amidst daily challenges.  

Thankful

It can be difficult to stay thankful in the midst of challenges. I am currently facing some difficulties, but I am able handle them in a task-based manner. I treat each task as an assignment, and I prioritize them according to importance. 

Still, there are days when I find it hard to be grateful, but a simple moment can change that. 

I was able to eat brunch with my family, and I got to knit while waiting from my order. I was thankful that we were complete and that we had time to eat together. I was happy that I had yarn on my needles and stitches to pass time away. And I was humbled by how simple things are, if only I could break each challenge down to its basic element. 

I will continue to find ways to be thankful amidst these challenging times. I will continue knitting too, and hopefully that would always help me notice that each challenge can be processed better after a few stitches. 

Naturally Crafty

Yesterday, I bought my necessities for this month from Human Nature. Remember, if you need anything from there, please do not hesitate to order from my online store!

I also got to buy some talc-free baby powder, which I have been eyeing for months. Finally, my old baby powder is empty and I can try this healthier alternative. 

I also found a new product: reusable produce bags. 

I am also grateful for all the orders I have received this month. Thank you, dear customers! 

I still use my Knitting Expedition tote from Ifugao. It fits all my orders, as well as my craft bag!

Speaking of crafts, I got to crochet for a while as I was sipping on my cuppa. 

Before going home, I swung by my paternal grandparents’ grave to pay my respects on All Soul’s Day.  

I also got to finish knitting this beanie for someone I know who will be undergoing chemo soon. 

I like natural toiletries, knitting, crocheting, and coffee! All of these interests are intertwined somehow in my daily life, and I am glad that I can share these to you through my blog. 

Diane & Jude

Yesterday was Diane’s tenth death anniversary. I celebrated this milestone by visiting her vault.  

This time, I “brought” the whole gang with me by posing with our group photo.  

I knitted while I was there.  

And I crocheted too. 

Since it was a Thursday, I proceeded to St. Jude afterwards. 

I got to have my new St. Joseph pendant blessed.  

And I got to pray for my special intentions during the novena. 

Lastly, I got to chat a bit with Ate Nagie, the artisan behind my crocheted tumbler sling. If you also crochet, you know that this chunky nylon requires a 4mm or higher. She has been using a 2.5mm hook for years to make her slings. I let her try my 5.5mm and 4.0mm spare hooks. She liked the 4.0mm hook better and I let her have it so she can have a comfier time crafting. 

It doesn’t take much to share what we have. Whether it’s time for a late loved one, or sharing extra notions, there is always a way to make things better. 

Craftoween

I spent my Wednesday fulfilling some family obligations at home. In between my tasks, I knitted and crocheted these works in progress. 

I also received my package from The Attic Yarn and Craftery. These yarns and my new Furls crochet hook are already my Christmas presents to myself. I am living in challenging times, so I have to be frugal. I also have to plan my expenses with prudence. 

My Halloween was not so bad! I spent it with my family, with my fiber arts, and some new yarns and notions. I hope to have more simple crafternoon moments and productive days ahead!

Pixie Dust

Lately, I’ve been handling a lot on my plate. I have to take advantage of the short breaks that I have in each day to eat at drink coffee. 

In this case, I had the cheesy baked penne and brewed coffee from Mister Donut. This combo never fails to uplift me.  

I also got myself this door hanger from Papemelroti. A lot of people have been criticizing me for having a pixie. But I like rocking my hair this way, and I refuse to believe that I have to change my style in order to satisfy what the world wants. 

After all, the things that really matter are faith, trust, and a little pixie dust- that it factor that makes me stand out! 

And lastly, I received this eco bag from Batik Boutique, a social enterprise from Malaysia. You may say that it’s only a simple tote, but I do appreciate being acknowledged for my interest in supporting social entrepreneurs. 

One day, I will find someone who won’t ask me to grow my hair long. I will keep on attracting the right people, because I keep on promoting the things and causes that make me happy. And I will always begin and end my day with good food and coffee, as I get over each challenge with a little pixie dust. 

Paws to Pray

Yesterday, I went to UP to run some errands. I squeezed in some brisk walking at the oval to burn some calories. 

Then, I had a lovely burger steak canteen lunch. 

I proceeded to St. Clare to pray for my special intentions and to say thank you for recent blessings. 

To celebrate Halloween early, I swung by Barkin Blends Dog Cafe to cuddle some doggos. 

I had Ella the whole afternoon, and she later napped on my lap. 

I was also lucky since I got to take pictures with the other dogs as well.  

After a pawsome time, I ate tapsilog for dinner at Rodic’s. 

Then, I ended my day with a sunset walk. 

I am still hoping that things will improve. I continue to be optimistic, and in case things get too much to handle, I know that I can always pray and hangout with my furry friends.  

St. Jude Fiesta 2018

Yesterday was the feast of St. Jude Thaddeus. I got to hear Sunday mass at the National Shrine of the celebrated patron. 

I prayed for my immediate concerns, as well as my family and friends’ prayer requests. 

Upon exiting the church, I chanced upon a vendor who sells crocheted tumbler slings. Her name is Ate Nagie, and she painstakingly crochets each sling by hand using nylon yarn. 

I bought a sling for my Starbucks water bottle, and I got to exchange yarn and hook stories with Ate. I shared with her my knitting work in progress, and my crochet hook of choice, which is 4mm. Amazingly, she uses a 2.5mm hook for these slings!

I chanced upon a cute doggo outside CEU as I was walking to the train. 

Then, I went to the QCinema Film Festival screening of Billie and Emma. I’m straight, but I enjoyed the film!

I had a lovely day practicing my faith, appreciating handmade, and watching a movie beyond my comfort zone. Here’s to more cool experiences to brighten up my life!

Staying Strong

Yesterday, I decided to frog my crochet stitches and begin again with a knitted shawl. I was unhappy with the uneven edges, so I decided that it was best to knit it instead. 

I also joined in some Halloween festivities at the mall. 

I relaxed with a coffee float. 

And had hairbrushes made for me and my mom! 

Before going home, I had a quick dinner at Yoshinoya.  

And upon going home, I instantly brushed my hair.  

I may rock a pixie, but I still brush my hair! It helps me unwind from all the challenges in life. I stay strong with fiber arts, food, and simple joys.

I hope that you also find ways to be stronger each day!

Spoonfuls of Hope

I had some free time to spare from my obligations, so I decided to knit and eat this adobo flakes naked burrito from Army Navy. 

I also swung by Maginhawa to visit Makers Cafe, which serves light food, coffee, and local merch.  

I bought a pair of Pulseras by Kim spoon earrings because I love using one! I’m a proud Pinoy spoon user in a world that predominantly uses fork and knife to eat.  

My star stud earrings are also from Pulseras by Kim. This earring setup makes me happy!

I was also delighted to receive a postcard from my high school friend Nurai, who’s based in Germany. I’m touched that she remembered me during her trip to London!

Lastly, it was a real treat to receive snail mail from the Pink Sisters convent. 

Comfort food, basic bling, and snail mail all give me hope amidst challenges. I look forward to more simple joys to keep me going. 

From Manila to Cainta

My Wednesday began with some cute “ghost” sightings at Gateway. 

I took the train to St. Jude, which is one of my go-to places for prayer and reflection. 

St. Jude’s feast is coming up! I hope I can make time for it this weekend. 

After praying for my urgent needs, I proceeded to Barkin Blends Dog Cafe to cuddle my favorite furbabies. 

I couldn’t ask for a cozier afternoon!

I hope that I could spend more time with these dogs! For now, I have these photos to tide me over until my next visit. 

Crochet and Massage

I recently had to buy some essentials at Daiso, so on top of all my supplies, I stocked up on some new toys. I got a foot roller, a pressure point stick, and a 4mm crochet hook. 

I’ve been hearing positive feedback about Daiso’s craft supplies and notions, so I was really excited to try their crochet hook. And it did not disappoint! It was perfect as it rested comfortably on my ring finger as I alternate between pen and knife grips. 

As always, this isn’t a sponsored post. I’m just happy with my purchases from Daiso. Yes, including the massage tools! I really believe that it doesn’t take much to cheer myself up. 

Also, this falafel platter from Halal Guys was delicious! 

I hope that you will also find some cheap finds that will wow you. Happy shopping!