Risk Management Masterclass Day 1

Yesterday, I got to attend the first day of the Masterclass Series on Disaster Risk and Crisis Management. Before commuting to Makati, I ate my usual pesto pasta salad from Juju Eats. 

It was gloomy when I reached the venue, AIM. 

The classic staircase greeted me again. 

And I was welcomed by learning. My key takeaway is that disaster risk management should start at home and it should be a personal responsibility. Some examples of these are knowing earthquake safety procedures and converting to energy-efficient appliances. 

I had a productive afternoon and it’s always fabulous in Makati.  

I knitted during the P2P ride going back to Quezon City.  

I can’t wait to learn more in the coming days at AIM!

Rosario Yarn Adventure

Last Saturday, I went to Lacion General Merchandise right beside Rosario bridge in Pasig. You won’t miss it- it’s located on the corner unit of a pink complex. There are sacks and bags filled with yarns! 

I freaked out and wanted to buy so many yarns. But I resolved to only buy one kilo. This store is famous among local knitters and crocheters. Just search “Rosario Pasig Yarns” and you will know what I mean. 

The store spins their own yarn imported from Taiwan. You may mix variegated and solid colors, and each kilo retails for Php390. 

They also sell machine-spun shawls made of the same yarns. 

After searching through their bags and chatting with the owners, Kuya Miner and Ate Gladys, I finally selected five balls to consist one kilo.  

They recommend a size 4-5mm hook for their yarn. I am currently knitting using one of my purchases with a pair of 4.5mm needles, and the weave is so soft. 

I highly recommend this shop! It’s definitely worth visiting and the yarns are worth the commute. The owners are also kind and honest. Drop by soon! 

Manila CPO Tour

Yesterday, I joined the Postal Heritage Operational Tour organized by the Royal Postal Heritage Guided Tour Group. I am a philatelist, and I am fond of activities organized by Pilipinas Philately, such as the stamp forum that I attended last year. This was why it’s not a struggle for me to wake up early on a Saturday morning to join a tour in Manila. 

I started my day by having taho for brekkie.  

I rode the LRT, and in half an hour, I was greeted by old school downtown Manila.  

It was my first time to cross the famous Jones Bridge on foot. I was so giddy during this moment as this was a focal point in the movie Last Night starring Toni Gonzaga and Piolo Pascual.  

After literally crossing the bridge, I reached the beautiful Manila Central Post Office.

There were stamps for sale at the lobby during the event.  

Again, I was delighted to be there because the central post office building was featured in the film Hintayan ng Langit starring Gina Pareño and Eddie Garcia.  

Naturally, I gravitated towards Rizal stamps.  

I crocheted while waiting for the lecture to begin. 

We all received a welcome packet with some stamps! 

And I was happy to see a model of the Murillo Velarde Map, whose original I saw in person last year. 

I was especially drawn to the P.O. boxes as they had a classic vibe.  

Look at these doors!

This staircase is gorgeous. 

After the lecture, we got to tour the post office and learn about the operations of the government agency. 

It was lovely to be in the company of fellow philatelists.  

Our last stop was the postshop, where we all got to purchase current stamps in circulation. 

This is my haul. I got stamps that make me smile, such as valentine symbols and year of the pig stamps.  

I had the time of my life at the tour and I am looking forward to more philatelic geekery in the future! I hope you can also join a post office tour in the future. Just look them up on Facebook for more details. It’s free, and I’m sure that you will also have a good time!

Dogs and Food

The other day, I was determined to have a great day before my dad entered the hospital again (he is terminally-ill).  

I started my Thursday with a burger from this kiosk at the mall. It was delicious!  

Then, I got this postcard from Papemelroti. I sent it via snail mail to a customer at my online shop (please buy Human Nature products from me!) 

I spent my afternoon cuddling my favorite doggos at Barkin’ Blends Dog Cafe. 

Ella (the dog that captured my heart years ago) is an expert at cheering me up! 

Apparently, Ella and my new buddy Stitch are friends.  

Ella’s son Chocnut also offered his warm furry body for me to cuddle.  

It was also my first time to hug Raven the corgi.  

Yes, it was difficult to leave.  

I bought socks to remind me of my doggo friends wherever I go.  

Then, I got a honey soy refresher from Soy Yummy! It was really yummy! 

And for snack, I for Nacho King. I was brought back to my grade school days. 

And for late dinner, I drove to Army Navy (thank God it’s 24 hours!) for some adobo flakes. So good!  

It’s up to us to find ways to keep going amidst trials. We just have to find the perfect formula that works. For me, it’s doggo + food. I hope you’ll also find yours! 

New Wave

I felt like learning a new stitch this 2019, so thanks to YouTube, I learned how to crochet the drunken granny scarf.  

I used The Attic Yarn and Craftery’s Cotton Drops yarn and my Furls 4mm hook.  

I enjoyed crocheting this project because the stitches were very relaxing. Plus, I think it turned out nicely.  

I started a new project in the same stitch, and it has the same calming effect on me! I hope that you will also get to learn something new this year, whether it’s a new stitch or a new perspective.  

Strong Friendships

I received a care package from my college friend Alexis the other day. It contained goodies from her recent trip to Japan. I squealed in delight when I opened the bag, because they contained stuff in my favorite color palette! 

I am thankful to have few but genuine friends in my life. We may not have much at the moment as we are prioritizing the medication for my dad’s terminal illness, but I have priceless friendships that keep me going. 

Strong Stitcher

I finished the cowl that I was crocheting when my dad was diagnosed last October. I have stopped working on it because it reminded me of that fateful week. I continued making other projects (like my living coral cowl), but every time I would try to continue crocheting the blue cowl, I just couldn’t carry on. 

Finally, I found the courage to finish it yesterday, and I feel lighter and more calm. 

Finishing this project is a manifestation of my strength. I was able to overcome my emotions and carry on with the familiar shell stitches. As I was stitching it together, I realized that I’m stronger than I think. I hope that as I continue crocheting and knitting this year, I’ll be able to overcome challenges by thinking things through while stitching scarves into fruition. 

Memory Lane

Yesterday was a busy one. I had a series of interviews at Makati and Ortigas, and I started with the one at Makati.  

I took the P2P to get there as the MRT was already full at 6:00 AM.  

I had taho and crocheted for a bit to perk me up.  

It was a beautiful day, and I got to walk around the city before my appointment.  

I even got to visit my old office building, RCBC Plaza. 

I had breakfast at the convenience store that I used to frequent. 

It was nostalgic because I used to buy food and coffee here during my first job.  

After my Makati interview, I went to Ortigas by train for two other interviews. But first, I dropped by my alma mater UA&P. 

I had some documents photocopied at the library. For the second time that day, I was overcome with nostalgia. 

I had lunch at the cafeteria before proceeding to my two other interviews. 

I finished early, so I still had time to visit St. Clare Monastery to pray for a job and for more blessings for me and my family. 

And for dinner, I had sizzling burger steak, which is my weakness at the food court. 

Here’s hoping that I’ll find the right opportunity for me soon, and that I’ll be able to join the workforce again. For now, I am taking care of my family and not giving up!

Sunday Paws

Yesterday, I crocheted while waiting for my lunch at Barkin’ Blends Dog Cafe. I had the Bonnie Burger and a wintermelon milk tea. I missed this combo so much because food and milk tea are only available at the Sta. Lucia branch (I frequent the SM North Towers branch more because it’s closer to my house).  

I also missed the bigger doggos who are mainstays at Sta. Lucia. 

I also met Shadow, a rescued black Labrador who was abandoned at the vet. She was left behind after her original owners broke up. Now, she has a happy disposition at her new home.  

Another rescued dog is Potchi the pug, who has only one eye.  

All of their dogs are still so sweet and caring.  

I had some tokneneng (deep fried quail eggs) for snack...

...and some calamansi juice to perk me up.  

I ended my day with Sunday mass at St. Clare Monastery.  

Before driving home, I enjoyed a large cup of sour cheese fries from Potato Corner.  

Life is too short. We should make time to be with beings that cheer us up, for worship, and for cheat meals. Treat yourself within your means on weekends, and watch yourself take on the world during the workweek. 

Strengthening Myself

Yesterday, I drove to the Human Nature Flagship Store along Commonwealth Avenue to attend the launch of their new lipsticks! 

I was so excited to try these lipsticks. Matte lipsticks are my go-to makeup, and now I can finally buy this staple from my favorite natural store.  

The formula is matte, yet it glides on smoothly without tugging.  

And since my favorite shade is strength, I was chosen to represent it during the launch.  

I had so much fun! And I am sure that you will definitely like these lipsticks too. Buy from me today via my Human Nature Online Store! 

It was also a privilege to meet Sami, the daughter of my friend Ate Yla (she’s the manager of  the Human Nature Flagship Store). She’s a college freshman with a small business of her own. I supported her accessories store by purchasing some semi-precious stone bracelets for my parents. 

I also bought two bracelets for myself. They’re absolutely stunning! Plus, Sami donates part of the proceeds to charity. 

I later had a waxing session nearby.  

And finally, I got to have lunch again at Breakfast Bin. I missed their toasted naked longganisa with brown aligue rice. 

I had a day of natural pampering, wherein I was even reminded of my strength. I am strong because I can still show up and be there at events despite all the challenges that I am facing. I can still smile and wear lipstick. And I am still capable of supporting businesses with a heart.  

I hope that you will help me support myself and reach my dreams! Buy from my Human Nature online store today! 

Gotta Stitch

Yesterday, I spent the whole day caring for my sick father in the hospital. I brought my crochet project with me, and started to stitch with this lovely yarn in 2019’s Color of the Year, Living Coral.  

I ended up finishing the cowl before bedtime. I am quite pleased with this scarf because it features the shell stitch, which is a dream to crochet during stressful times.  

I love crocheting scarves because it keeps my hands and mind focused even if I am in a precarious setting such as the hospital. It is my wish that you will also find a hobby that will enrich your life and keep you going during the worst times. I found joy in crochet (and knitting!), and this is just the beginning of my maker life this 2019. 

Staying Real

Yesterday, I drove to a meeting near my house. 

But before the meeting, I managed squeeze in brekkie in the form of a coffee kick smoothie from Go! Salads. It was filling and delicious!

Then, I got a leather coin purse for my MP3 player and earbuds. I also got a couple of postcards which will be mailed to clients of my online shop (please buy Human Nature products from me). 

I dropped by the post office after my meeting to mail my postcards. These floral stamps are lovely!

I grabbed lunch from Falafel Yo!  

This Jesus diet thing is really uplifting. Instead of eating greasy food all the time, I am eating more vegetables and healthful meals.  

I also watched a movie starring Elisse Joson and McCoy De Leon. Sakaling Maging Tayo is set in Baguio, with some scenes shot in Teacher’s Camp, which holds a special place in my heart. I won a national award in extemporaneous speaking at CMLI (which was held in Teacher’s Camp) back in 2003. 

The movie was funny and entertaining. I highly recommend it.  

I had coffee at Barkin’ Blends Dog Cafe...

...where I bumped into my preschool classmate Veronica...

 ...and high school classmate Maja!

I later bonded with the dogs. 

I had truffle fries from Potato Corner for snack.  

And an Okinawa milk tea from Happy Cup to perk me up. 

Before the day ended, I had pesto pasta from Juju Eats for dinner. 

I like dogs, healthy food, simple local finds, and coffee! I hope that you will also find the things that make you smile. 

I Am Enough

Yesterday, I continued journaling using the prompts from Abbey Sy’s book Always Be Creating which I have started last Saturday. I also shared some of my journaling using the book last Sunday, and it was empowering to both finish the book and realize these powerful reflections. 

Turns out, my power word is enough. I can’t wait to fulfill all the plans and opportunities that are waiting for me this 2019, and yes, I will always keep in mind that I am enough. 

After journaling, I had brunch at Falafel Yo at SM North Annex. It was delicious and filling! I really am a falafel fan to begin with, so eating this sandwich was a guiltless treat that made me smile. 

I also have a thing for floors, and I couldn’t resist their pretty tiles.  

Later, I bought a leather mini makeup bag to store my tiny essentials inside my handbag. I also used the 15% discount voucher that I received from donating clothes the other day at H&M. 

Then, I prayed at St. Joseph’s Shrine at Anonas. I prayed for my terminally-ill dad, my mom, and for myself- that I will have a good job, a kind boss, more opportunities this year, and a great relationship. 

I dropped by Anonas gem Baker’s Garden to buy bread for snack. 

This is my favorite spot at Anonas: where the sky meets the train station, the church, and the microcinema. 

I finally got to watch Kung Paano Siya Nawala at Cinema ‘76 and it was worth the commute! It was light and entertaining. I also liked that they featured one of my favorite charities, PAWS! 

My thing for floors continues. 

I ended my day with a hearty dinner: a steaming hot bowl of malunggay noodle soup with mushroom balls. Yum! 

I work hard, I pray hard, and I eat right. Here’s to the best year of my life! After all, I am enough.  

Closet Cleanup

Yesterday, I cleaned my room and edited my closet. I ended up donating 8 bags of old clothes to H&M for recycling.  

I got 15% discount vouchers for regular items in exchange for my clothes (note: I also donated a similar amount of clothes to another charity). 

Cleaning out my closet has allowed me to focus on what I use on the regular. I also got to buy new pairs of jeans using the voucher and the gift certificate that I got for another store.  

May 2019 be a well-edited year that’s light on my being and good for my soul.  

Monday Prayer

Yesterday, I visited St. Clare Monastery to pray for a good job (and a kind boss) this 2019. I also gave thanks for all the blessings that come my way, despite my dad’s illness and the current challenges that my family is facing. 

As I crocheted a new scarf, I realized that my priorities are on point. It’s just that I have to be more thankful in order to welcome more blessings into my life.  

I will also continue sharing my journey on this blog as I go along. I hope that with intentional prayer and action, I will be able to reach my goals this 2019! 

Sunday Slowdown

Yesterday, I heard Sunday mass with my family.  

We later had Chinese brunch as my dad wanted comfort food.  

Then, I packed all these stuff for my crafternoon at Makers Cafe. 

I went there to buy my minimalist stainless steel Catriona earrings. 

But I also went there to hang and knit!

I had carbonara and a long black to energize me as I craft. 

Then, I took out my copy of Always Be Creating by Abbey Sy and my journal to answer some journaling prompts from the book.  

I realized that I wanted a daily reminder of my late friend Diane, so I bought this side moon gold-filled necklace from Pulseras by Kim. 

Feeling inspired, I continued journaling using Abbey’s book. I also finished reading it in the cafe, and I no longer felt overwhelmed with my life. I realized that there is a process to pursuing my purpose and achieving my goals. And it pays to be creative in order to find beauty and meaning as I go along. 

I finished knitting my scarf. As I began crocheting a new one, I was privileged to witness the procession of the Black Nazarene. 

I packed my art bag and proceeded to Cinema Centenario to watch Rainbow’s Sunset. It was touching and heartwarming. 

I later had dinner at Get Greens. 

It was my first time there. Their green pesto pasta did not disappoint!

Then, I stitched my scarf together to turn it I tom an infinity one. 

I enjoyed my day at Maginhawa, and I got to do a lot!

Here’s to more crafternoons and warm memories. 

Homework

Yesterday, I stayed home to knit while listening to podcasts. 

I later whipped out my copy of Abbey Sy’s Always Be Creating because I was craving for some inspo to jumpstart the new year. 

I was inspired to get my new journal to answer some journaling prompts in the book. 

This pretty notebook was a surprise present from the kindhearted ladies behind my favorite local yarn store, The Attic Yarn and Craftery. 

I went back to Abbey’s book and answered the prompts on passion points. 

Turns out, my passion points have not changed at all since childhood, and the same things still make me happy as an adult. 

Given my limited resources and packed schedule, I am able to pursue my usual habits with ease because I know myself well after all. 

I am still in the middle of the book, but I can say that it’s worth purchasing! It’s helpful especially if you are feeling the need to infuse creativity into your life. Also, it pays to have a journal on hand so that you can answer journaling prompts not just in this book, but from other influencers as well (you may search for prompts on the internet). The possibilities are endless once you commit to a creative life- and the best part is finding yourself in the process. 

Smooth Thinker

Lately, I’ve been having so many negative thoughts. It’s only fitting as I had to deal with my dad’s terminal illness. I also had to take over some tasks and errands for my family. However, I decided that things should change by starting with my food.  

I began eating healthier, and it has really cheered me up. Here’s the kuro salad garlic hummus from Go! Salads.  

And this is the breakfast smoothie from the same establishment, which I later had for lunch. I was full until dinner time, and yes, my meals did spark joy!

If you also need a few changes in hour life, your food can be a good place to start! It doesn’t have to be drastic- just eat healthful meals and you will definitely see a change in your disposition. Of course, it doesn’t mean that I will be staying away from junk food altogether. Life is about balance. I’ll just have to find the formula that works for me this 2019.

Keeping Up with 2019

Yesterday, I had another meeting. I think it turned out fine! 

After my productive morning, I had my pixie trimmed. Haircuts really have an amazing effect on my confidence, that’s why I get one each month. 

I had the Sgt. Steak salad and garlic hummus for lunch. 

Then, I visited Barkin’ Blends Dog Cafe for some cuddle time with Ella and my other furry friends.  

I ended my day with a breakfast smoothie from Go! Salads. I like this place so much, I had my lunch and dinner there.

2019 is turning out to be a fruitful year for me. I am eager to keep up with this year’s challenges by looking for the right opportunities to pursue, and balancing them with my passions. 

Bring it on!

Working It

Yesterday, I had an early start as I had a meeting to attend. I had a fast food breakfast and some coffee to-go. 

I realized that I was at the namesake building of my venue a few minutes before my appointment. Good thing I walk fast.  

I was able to make it at a reasonable time. My meeting was a success! 

I thanked God by visiting Padre Pio at St. Francis Church.  

Later during the day, I got to walk at UP... 

...and indulge in some dirty ice cream! 

I also bought a bamboo toothbrush from Rags to Riches. 

Finally, it was time for late lunch with my best friend Luti.  

I used my gift certificate from Sunnies Santa . I won a pair of Sunnies Specs from them last Christmas. It was certainly the highlight of my holidays! As a bonus, my gift bag also included a gift certificate at my favorite restaurant. 

I got to knit while waiting for my friend. 

I also had a flat white to perk myself up. 

And I ordered a guacamole and salmon dip with taro chips to start. 

Luti and I had rice bowls for our mains. We had a fabulous meal! Thank you Sunnies Cafe! 

I am working on improving myself and celebrating small wins to motivate myself to keep going! Here’s to a productive year ahead.