Keeping Afloat

I used to meet my late friend Diane at Starbucks Gateway back in uni. We would meet here as this was halfway between my school, UA&P, and hers, the Ateneo. We used to sit by the window and admire the leather shoes and bags at PabDer. And our conversation flowed as our coffees got colder. We didn’t really mind, as we were there for each other. 

I miss her still. She passed away in 2008, but I still commemorate her life whenever I can. Yesterday, I knitted at our Starbucks (by the way, happy 21st anniversary, Starbucks Philippines!), while admiring the shoes and bags at PabDer from afar. It’s Christmas, and carols are being played on the speakers. My coffee has gone cold. But the memory of Diane continues to warm my heart. 

To cheer myself up, I bought a large mango float from popular chain Maxi Mango. It was delicious, as always!

Then, I lifted up my intentions at St. Clare Monastery. 

Adulting may be messy and unpredictable, so I keep my constants close because they help me stay afloat. I know that Diane is watching over me and our other friends, and that St. Clare is praying for my intentions.

I believe that good things will come my way very soon!

Staying Crafty

Yesterday, I claimed my blood test results from the hospital. I was surprised with their festive holiday setup, which added cheer to my day. 

Thankfully, my thyroid test results were good!

I celebrated with a stuffed crinkle from The Craft Central Cafe.  

It was the best crinkle I’ve ever had outside of ADB!

Then, it was time for me to buy Christmas presents at Human Nature. I also got a bag of garlic banana chips, which is a guiltless snack of mine!

After paying for my gifts, I sipped some coffee while listening to Christmas songs in-store. 

Human Nature still accepts usable toys to be donated to GK kids! Please donate your old toys at any Human Nature store. 

You may also support me and my family by making a purchase from my Human Nature online store. Thank you and God bless you! 

I went to Papemelroti to check-out their new stationery. 

I ended up buying this pocket calendar, which I need to plan my events and obligations on the go. 

It is perfect with my analog planning style. 

I took a Grab ride and knitted to my destination. 

Finally, it was time for dinner at Bonchon. 

And I was able to squeeze in some shopping at Daiso before calling it a day. 

I am managing my tasks one day at a time. I use tools like my handy analog planner, rewards like stuffed crinkles, and to keep myself afloat, I spend my earnings from my Human Nature online store. Please continue to support my business, so that I can carry on with life knowing that I am also helping GK communities with every product sold. 

The Active Foodie

Yesterday was all about simple joys such as food, fitness, and crafts. 

I had Potdog crab egg with garlic rice and sweet garlic sauce for lunch. Definitely worth the calories as this is one of my favorite supermarket fast food finds! 

After lunch, I walked to the newly-built SM North Towers to visit the newest Starbucks Reserve cafe. 

I was stunned! It honestly didn’t look like I was still in Quezon City.  

I had my coffee while knitting, and I was able to unwind.  

Then, I was able to buy these handmade polymer clay earrings from local brand The Baby Blue Bunny at The Craft Central.  

I ended my day with a sunset walk at UP and a simple dinner of cheese corn and Rodic’s tapsilog. 

Who says that I’m too complicated? I like food, coffee, crafting, buying handmade, and while it’s not pictured today, going to church. I burn everything I eat through fitness. And I keep the world updated through my blog. 

Here’s to balancing my life with each spoonful and step that I take! 

Dancing to Life’s Beat

Yesterday, I got to join an Aerosports Dance-Off at Quezon Memorial Circle. It was from 6-9am. I had fun!

My friend Cyndi was also there to dance.  

I rewarded myself with some knitting...

 ...and a bowl of yummy toasted naked longganisa with talangka brown rice for breakfast. 

I also got to see the first game of the Battle of Katipunan between UP and Ateneo. 

I was sad that UP lost, so I walked around the oval to comfort myself. 

I got home to a package of yarns that I ordered from my favorite yarn store, The Attic Yarn and Craftery. 

I’m glad that I was able to combine my passions for fitness and crafting in my life! Here’s to more fit weekends and crafternoons!

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.