Friendship on Target

Yesterday, I was able to spend time with my high school friends. We held our annual Christmas gathering on Bonifacio Day because it was the only time that most of us were free. 

I got ready by wearing bright red lipstick. 

Our first stop was Arrowland, an archery range inside the mall. Here I am with Kai after she gave me her Christmas gift. 

And here’s all of us before our fun archery time. 

Then, we had snacks at Vampire Penguin, where I had this cheese and hotdog puff. 

I also had a cuppa to go with my waffle. 

We got to exchange gifts while eating merienda. 

We had more food afterwards, such as Cookies by the Bucket...

 ...oyakodon at Japan Fudo Street...

 ...and truffle fries from Potato Corner! Plus, I had an Okinawa milk tea with pearls and pudding from Serenitea. 

We ended the night by visiting Luti’s condo nearby and a group chat with those who weren’t able to physically join us. 

These friends have become my family through the years. I am grateful that we all meet annually, and that we still keep in touch. I hope to have more memories with these girls in the years to come!

Licks and Lights

Yesterday, I had fun with the furry dogs of Barkin’ Blends Dog Cafe.  

But first, I ate their Bonnie Burger for lunch. So good!

I placed my Knitting Expedition Tiyargo bag inside their locker and I was pleasantly surprised that it fits inside! 

I got to cuddle Ella and the other furry buddies at the cafe.  

Before going home, I was able to catch the Christmas light show at Vertis North. It reminded me of the Parade of Lights at Disneyland! 

I had a lovely day with some licks from cuddly dogs and ethereal Christmas lights before driving home. I hope to capture more holiday memories this season! 

2nd Dev Forum: Disaster Risk and Crisis Management 2018

Yesterday, I attended the 2nd Dev Forum hosted by the Asian Institute of Management. It was a day of learning and networking, but first...

...I had delicious Tapa Queen from Tapa King for brekkie.  

Then, I heard early morning mass at Greenbelt Chapel. 

Finally, it was time for my conference! 

My key takeaways are that we can only primarily rely on ourselves for help in these rapidly changing times, so we need to be prepared for disasters and crises. Shifting our mindsets and doing our part to effectively communicate what is happening will be helpful not only to save our own lives but to governments and NGO’s as well. 

It was an honor to be there again, AIM! Here’s to more learning opportunities to come! 

Justice for Women at the ADB

It was an honor to attend the International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women at the Asian Development Bank. I was also a guest at last year’s celebration of gender empowerment, and I was grateful to be there again to show my support for this worthy cause. 

I am humbled to represent my blog, and to be able to be at ADB again. 

The bank inspires me with its strong stance to further the cause of gender equality. As a woman, I am proud to be a guest at an institution that recognizes my potential in society. 

It was a treat to see this year’s Christmas tree at the library. 

And no trip to ADB is complete without a cuppa from Starbucks!

I was able to knit prior to the meeting. 

Then, I had lunch at the ADB Cafeteria. I bought pizza slices from Gourmet’s Cafe, which used to run the now-defunct Trattoria Gourmet’s at Shangri-la Mall. The crew from Shang were there, and they still remember me! It’s heartwarming that they still know me after all these years. 

Their pizzas brought me back to 1999! Still delicious. 

By the time the forum started, I was already full and caffeinated enough to listen to the esteemed panel speak about their work in fighting gender violence. 

The panel have all mentioned that shifting our mindset to be inclusive of all genders and to think of everyone equally is key to preventing gender violence.  

I am happy that I was able to make time for this forum because it has empowered me to speak out for women. I am using my blog not just to give myself a voice, but to motivate other women to leave their partners if they are abused. Together, we can build a safer society that is kind to all genders. It is my dream that I can continue empowering women in my own small way, with every blog entry and solo dining experience that I share!

Core Advocate Forever

I have been selling Human Nature products for five years now, and I have been an online seller of their natural products this year. My Human Nature online store continues to be a blessing to my life, as I am able to earn extra by selling products which I personally use and have transformed the lives of many Filipinos. Please support my store by making a purchase today!

To my regular customers, and to all of you who have made a purchase by reading my blog entries, thank you! It is because of you that I continue to believe in Human Nature and its effective products. 

More importantly, your support has enabled me to believe in myself. And because of this, I have supported Human Nature’s fundraising initiative for Marawi this Christmas. In exchange for my support, I received this beautiful bracelet by Silverworks.  

My life continues to be blessed, thanks to brands like Human Nature that allow me to give back with every purchase and product sold.  

Walang Iwanan! 

Leniency Program of the Philippine Competition Commission

Yesterday, I did my civic duty by participating in a meeting on the Leniency Program of the Philippine Competition Commission. It was my first time at their new HQ at the Vertis North Corporate Center, and I was impressed with their spacious and beautiful office.  

I knitted while sipping on coffee before the meeting. 

I learned that any business may avail of the leniency program in exchange for information on illegal practices by juridical entities. Former employees and agents may also voluntarily disclose information regarding practices which violate competitveness, such as price fixing. 

It is important for me to attend learning opportunities such as this meeting because I need to be updated with current trends and laws in the business environment. I cannot afford to stay complacent. Through my website, I am able to share what I have learned and network with colleagues in various industries. 

I am lucky to have access to conferences and seminars, and I look forward to upcoming events that will allow my mind to gain knowledge and insights. 

Steak Dinner with my BFF

I had a lovely steak dinner with my high school BFF Luti last night. We chose Steak to One because we also wanted to check out the weekend bazaar after our meal. 

We chose well! Our porterhouse steaks were delicious and even the iced tea was refreshingly good.  

For dessert, I had Malagos chocolate ice cream from Papa Diddi’s. 

Sometimes, we just need one friend who believes in us, and yummy comfort food to nourish us during tough times. May you also find that friend in your life, and may you continue to seek food that not only makes you full, but happy as well. 

Simple Saturday

Yesterday, I finally got to watch ML starring Eddie Garcia. It was uncomfortable to watch, but I was able to stay until the end! 

Also, I watched this alone so it was a milestone. I conquered a suspense film by myself.  

I enjoyed a burger with egg and walked around the oval.  

I attended anticipated Sunday mass at the UP Parish Church.  

And I felt renewed after a challenging week! 

Sometimes, the best things in life are right across our neighborhood. UP is just a highway from my house, and I find myself enjoying simple joys such as quality films and street food in its premises. I will definitely go back!

Thankfully Caffeinated

I have been helping my family recently with errands at home as one of our members has fallen ill with a debilitating condition. It has been stressful, but manageable. One of the ways that I unwind (pun intended) is by knitting at coffee shops. I find a bright, cozy nook and stitch away.

I prefer my coffee strong, and my background music to be upbeat! I also listen to podcasts when Top 40 music tends to be cloying. 

Knitting has helped me mend my broken heart and stay alert at conferences. I look forward to seeing how my knitting journey will help me power through this challenge that my family is currently facing. 

Faith, Food, and Film

Yesterday I had beer and okonomiyaki with an old friend. 

It was delicious, and it was nice to catch-up with old friends, as always.  

I walked around UP to burn my lunch.  

I went to St. Clare to pray for some challenges I am currently undertaking, and for the strength to endure them all. 

Then, I had strong coffee while knitting.  

My last stop for the night was UP Cine Adarna to watch Through Night and Day starring one of my favorite actresses, Alessandra De Rossi.  

I had junk food and coffee while waiting. 

And like most Alessandra De Rossi films, it was a showstopper. I enjoyed it, even if it broke my heart.  

Looking forward to more food trips, prayer breaks, and film nights in the future! 

Presents and Presence

I recently finished kniting this millennial pink cowl and started a scarf featuring multicolored yarn from The Attic Yarn and Craftery. It was actually a birthday gift from them, and it even came with this sweet card. 

I brought my knitting to a meeting the other day, but before discussing serious matters, I had lunch at the Human Nature Cafe, which is exclusive for employees. I got to eat there because my friend Cindy treated me to lunch. 

I had the all-heart burger, which is vegan and delicious! 

I knitted while waiting for my meeting to begin.  

And after that, I went to the Pink Sisters Convent to buy greeting cards! Each card enrolls the recipient in their perpetual masses.  

There are cards for various occasions.  

I capped off my day with a foot massage at my neighborhood spa.  

Life may be imperfect, but I know what my priorities are. While looking for Mr. Right, I am treating myself well and pursuing my passions, such as knitting! And of course, I’m grateful for friends who care.  

Sunshine and Street Food

The other day, I was at the Human Nature Flagship Store to purchase some personal needs. In case you missed it, I sell Human Nature products on my online store!  Please consider buying Christmas gifts from me. 

After shopping, I snacked on a pack of roasted garlic banana chips and brewed coffee. The store is a cozy place to hangout and clear my thoughts, and my snack was the perfect way to end a relaxing morning. 

I shopped with my favorite carry-all, my Knitting Expedition Tiyargo bag.  

Since it was a sunny day, I proceeded to UP Diliman for some brisk walking and street food!

My street food craving was intense!

I had egg sandwich...

...kwek-kwek, and pancit canton! So good every once in a while.  

It was a beautiful day for supporting social enterprises and satisfying my street food craving. Looking forward to more simple days that don’t have to break the bank. 

QC Foodtrip

Last Sunday, I had lunch with my high school bff Luti at the original Mister Kabab branch. 

I had yogurt shake... 

...and my favorite, special chicken chelo kabab, double ground! 

That night, I ate solo at Steak to One at Quezon Memorial Circle. It was my first time there. 

And their chicken pesto did not disappoint! 

I got to walk around the park before going home, and I must say that it looks pretty festive at night.  

It doesn’t take a lot to celebrate simple days with good food and bright lights. A visit to an old favorite, a new resto, and some Christmas lights can surely uplift oneself.  

May you also find the light that inspires you to carry on! 

Philately Saturday

Last Saturday, I attended the Pilipinas Philately Forum on the hobby that changed my life. Philately has been a passion of mine during childhood, and while I am no longer active in collecting stamps, I still find it fascinating. Thanks to stamps, I became passionate about research, history, and art. 

It was quite fitting that the forum was held the Museo ng Sining inside the GSIS complex.  

I went to the event with my grade school friend Ginny and her sister, Angel. It was fun to spend the event with fellow philatelists. 

I liked the vintage vibe of the ladies room. 

And I couldn’t resist buying stamps and a drawstring bag featuring the Philippines’ first postage stamp!

The museum was a beautiful venue for a meaningful forum. 

I even knitted while waiting for it to begin.  

I learned that in the current digital age, stamps still have a place in society as they preserve history and promote peace through correspondence. 

This setup makes me happy. It features my new bag, my knitting needles and yarn, and the water bottle sling crocheted by the vendor I met outside St. Jude. 

Of course, I simply had to take a photo with my history crush, Dr. Jose Rizal!

I am glad that The Philippine Postal Corporation has established Pilipinas Philately to organize and promote stamp collecting among hobbyists in the country. They plan to open a philately museum next year, and utilize social media to connect philatelists with the latest trends in stamp collection and snail mail. 

Before going home, I bought these handmade earrings from The Class Act during their pop-up at The Block. 

l had an amazing experience meeting fellow philatelists, reconnecting with an old friend and her sister, and supporting handmade. I am eager to see how stamps can continue being relevant in society, and how my love for handmade will carry on as I attend learning opportunities whenever I can. Here’s to more letters, stamps, and memories with friends!

Last FURiday night

Last Friday night, I sipped on some milk tea while hanging out with the cute dogs of Barkin’ Blends Dog Cafe. I can visit them as often as I can as they help me relax and calm down amidst my busy schedule.   

Chocnut the chiweenie has an amusing angry face!

Ella, my favorite dog, still approaches me and sleeps on my lap- even if someone’s already snoozing there!

Visiting my furry friends is one of my self-care rituals. I have my own pet dog because my parents are allergic to them, but I can spend time with these friendly dogs when I have the time. I hope that you also found your happy place, and that you always have a reason to go back. 

Malacañang Museum Tour and Lecture

Yesterday, I was privileged to attend the lecture on  The American Imperium in the Philippines in Text and Urban Design: The 1905 Report on Proposed Improvments in Manila by Prof. Ian Morley of The Chinese University of Hong Kong. It was held at the Malacañang Museum and Library. 

I started my day with a cuppa at Starbucks.  

Then, it was time for the lecture and tour. It was my first time at the Malacañang Palace, and I thoroughly enjoyed the experience. I also learned heaps from the lecture. Concepts like alterity and history as futurology were discussed, and I realized that how much we appreciate and value space depends on how we prioritize our well-being.  

I will let these photos speak for themselves, as I had a wonderful day. I hope that I will be able to return to Malacañang someday.  

St. Clare and Dogs

I got to visit St. Clare the other day after my SME Competitiveness conference. It’s always a time to reflect and give thanks whenever I am at the monastery. 

After praying for my intentions, I proceeded to Barkin’ Blends Dog Cafe for a night with my furry friends. 

Life may be hard, but with saints who pray for us and dogs that cuddle us, it just keeps getting better.  

SME Competitiveness

Yesterday, I had the privilege of attending the SME Competitiveness Under Institutional Reform and Technological Change conference. It was organized and hosted by the Asian Institute of Management and Konrad Adenauer Stiftung. 

But first, I enjoyed my morning commute by taking the P2P to Makati. I slept comfortably during the two-hour traffic.  

It was my first time to go to the Makati Diamond Residences, and it was really nice!

Since it was an SME event, I wore my Marikina-made Renegade Folk sandals with pride. 

My seatmate, Esiel, is a Management lecturer at the University of Perpetual Help. It was helpful to have a teacher beside me as we got to exchange insights throughout the day. 

Another SME product that I proudly wore was my Noah fanny pack from Rags 2 Riches.  

AIM also partners with ADB on several studies, so we had a regional take on the industry landscape as well.  

Lunch was a networking event, and it was a delicious way to digest all the learnings that were presented by the esteemed panel.  

By the time the ensaymada was served, I was already inspired to continue supporting SME’s, especially those that help marginalized communities through social entrepreneurship. I sell Human Nature items through my online store, so I know first-hand how important technology is in business today. If the private sector and government will continue to work together to ensure that everyone has access to the right resources to setup their own businesses, then more Filipinos will be able to become thriving entrepreneurs. At the same time, the academe should continue researching on ways to support entrepreneurship in the country and the region. Lastly, we must all utilize the technology that is available to us to patronize business that have a heart and are locally-made. 

Together, we can all build a competitive atmosphere for businesses to thrive! 

Christmas at Makati

I got to explore the Poblacion area after my crochet workshop last Sunday. It was fun to walk around Makati at night, especially since the air is cooler as we are approaching the holidays. 

I ended up at the Ayala Triangle Gardens to witness their Christmas light show. 

My family and I may be facing some challenges at the moment as we care for our sick family member, but there is no way that Christmas should be forgotten this year! This year’s celebration may be more simple, but it remains meaningful as always. I am thankful that I have my family and friends with me, and that’s all that matters. 

Mayown Workshop

I attended the crochet workshop hosted by Leen Van Dyck of Mayown, a social enterprise based in Manila. She has taught a team of poor moms to crochet, and the impact has been tremendous. They are able to make high-quality stuffed toys, and they are paid fairly for their crochet work. They are able to provide food for their families, and their confidence is also boosted by their skills trainings. 

I am down for some training in intermediate crochet. As Leen is a certified teacher in an international school in Makati, she’s very patient. I was assured that I will learn how to read patterns and improve my stitches.  

My three classmates were learning basic crochet, while I got a kit enough for two palm-sized stuffed animals- an owl and a snail.  

I had a fun five-hour class while sipping coffee and chatting with Leen. It was enjoyable and humbling at the same time to read a pattern and correctly form a stuffed animal. 

I finished my owl and snail at home. It was so fulfilling! 

I am more confident about my crochet skills after the workshop, and I am determined to continue crocheting- not necessarily make amigurumi stuffed toys, but to apply the skills when I crochet. I am thankful to have met Leen too as she is now a friend that I have gained during the class. I can’t wait to continue making!