Faith and Healing

Yesterda, I had the remarkable opportunity to be in the presence of Healing Priest, Fr. Fernando Suarez. It was a privilege to meet him. I asked him to pray for me and my dad.  

I had some religious articles blessed by the esteemed priest. These were my pasalubong for my family.  

The mass left me in tears. Just like when I was in the presence of Pope Benedict the XVI, I felt the holy power of this priest. I was moved to tears as I prayed for my intentions.  

After the mass, I went for a blind massage.  

And before going home, I had an Assam milk tea with pearls and pudding. 

I believe that miracles are possible in my life, and in my family. I keep on praying for healing for my dad, a good job for me by March, and strength for my mom. I am also praying for the recovery of my best friend, Luti.  

May God bless us all! 

Coffee Break

I was already feeling anxious about my employment search. I wanted to hear from my potential employers already, and the wait was killing me. I happened to be at the hospital where my dad was confined, so I took a coffee break first to calm my nerves and stay awake. 

I had a French Vanilla and some sour cheese fries. It was a delicious combo, and it helped me stay focused on my situation: my dad was in the hospital, and I am looking for work so that I can help my family. I don’t need to be anxious about it, because I’m doing everything I can to be employed.  

I hope and pray that I will hear from employers soon! I am hoping for the best outcome for me. 

Sunday Chill

Yesterday, I heard Sunday mass with my family. 

I knitted while waiting for mass to begin.  

Then, we had lunch at Pho Hoa, and I was pleasantly surprised with their pretty floor. 

Then, I watched Alone/Together starring Liza Soberano and Enrique Gil. As someone who hangs out and jogs at UP Diliman, I appreciated the beauty of the campus on the big screen. They even ate the street food that I love on the movie! Also, they featured the National Museum and Vargas Museum, two museums that are close to my heart. I will definitely visit those two again. And I really enjoyed watching this movie because I recalled how idealistic I was then, and that it’s never too late to pursue my dreams. I’m still young after all. 

For dinner, I had the toasted naked longganisa with brown talangka rice from Breakfast Bin. 

I also had ice cream from Papa Diddi’s. I had the mango cheesecake and barako coffee scoops. They were both delicious and even complemented each other. 

Sundays are best spent with both my family and by myself. I was able to knit, eat, and watch a movie. Definitely a Sunday peg for weeks to come. 

Film, Faith, and Food

Yesterday, I finally got to watch Elise starring Enchong Dee and Janine Gutierrez. I went to Cinema ‘76 to see this film, and it was beautiful! It was moving and funny. I also can’t get over the costumes. Local movies truly surprise me. I will continue to support the local film industry by watching masterpieces in theaters, especially microcinemas. 

Then, it was off to St. Joseph’s Shrine for me to pray for my personal intentions. I will let him worry about my needs while he sleeps. 

Of course, I had to eat before going home, and this burger steak with egg did not disappoint.  

I have simple wants and needs. I enjoy watching movies, praying at solemn churches, and eating comfort food. Life is a beautiful journey, and I’m glad that you’re reading my story.  

Knitting Anniversary

Today is my knitting anniversary! It’s been a year since my fateful Knitting Adventure at the Banaue Rice Terraces. It was where I first learned to knit. The lesson wasn’t easy for me, and I did struggle at first. But with a lot of practice, I did get the hang of it. And I even re-learned how to crochet along the way!

To celebrate this important milestone, I crocheted and knitted this infinity shawl using chunky yarns from my favorite notions store, The Attic Yarn and Craftery. The ladies behind this local shop has become my friends, and it is touching how this friendship has also become a source of strength and inspiration for me to keep going. 

My knitting and crochet abilities are in line with my goal to diversify myself through continuous learning of skills. You may be wondering how this connects to my goal to work in a corporate setting. Well, knitting and crochet has taught me patience, perseverance, resilience (especially when I would drop a stitch and have to start over!), creativity, and imagination. I have also learned these skills from scratch through workshops (like the advanced crochet one I attended with Mayown last year). If I can train my mind and hands to manipulate yarn, needles, and hooks, then I’m sure that I am ready to learn new programs, business platforms, and skills. 

I have also started a new scarf using the knitting needles that came with my kit at Banaue. Using these 6mm bamboo needles again is humbling, as I recall the awkward stitches that I have made 365 days ago in the mountains. Now, I am in my room in the city, with pop music blaring in the background. I have yarn from Pasig, the yarn bowl that I gifted myself with on Valentine’s Day, my first knitting needles, and the determination to keep going. I have amazed myself with how far I’ve come in my creative journey. 

I know that this is only the beginning. 

Valentine’s 2019

Yesterday, I started Valentine’s Day by knitting while waiting for lunch to be served. My family and I had lunch at Japan Fūdo Street, and we had a lovely time! 

I had my usual order, the oyakodon. It’s delicious and flavorful.  

After lunch, I went to St. Clare Monastery to lift up my intentions and give thanks to the Lord for all the blessings that I continue to receive.  

Then, I continued my Valentine’s Day tradition of visiting Barkin’ Blends Dog Cafe.  

I was welcomed by friendly doggos who don’t seem to mind my presence, even if I’m there almost weekly! 

Of course, I had to cuddle my favorite doggo Ella on heart’s day.  

I was also lucky to receive chocolates from the owners of Barkin’ Blends. Thank you! 

I had a soy honey refresher from Soy Yummy and I was pleased to meet a deaf employee there. I am happy that more businesses are employing special needs staff. They deserve equal opportunities in the workforce.  

I had early dinner at Falafel Yo! I was pleasantly surprised with their pita fries. They’re yummy!

Before going home, I got to listen to some acoustic love songs at the free gig inside the mall.  

I even received a free pastillas rose from the mall management. Thank you! 

I came home to a package from Lazada. My yarn bowl has arrived safely.  

It’s nicer in person, and it fits all my yarns!

I am happy with my Valentine’s Day celebration this year. I got to knit, pray, spend time with doggos, eat out, and gift myself with more crafting. Life is good, and I am so blessed. 

Valentine’s Clutch

I’m single and happy on Valentine’s Day. While I’m looking for a partner, I’m also happy with myself. I think that’s the perfect foundation for a relationship, because I’m already fulfilled on my own. 

Having said that, I finished crocheting this clutch using cotton yarn from my favorite local notions store, The Attic Yarn and Craftery.  

To celebrate, I got myself some ensaimada and iced coffee from my neighborhood cafe.  

I also got a pixie trim and I feel fabulous! 

Self-love is the best foundation for a relationship. I am fortunate to have found fulfillment with my own talents, such as crochet! I know that whoever will date me in the future will be a lucky man because I’m already comfortable in my own skin. 

Stuffed Dreams

I stayed home yesterday to spend time with family. While doing so, I also crocheted using red yarn from The Attic Yarn and Craftery. Valentine’s Day is just around the corner, and I felt inspired to create using yarn that’s on-theme. 

I like surrounding myself with stuffed animals which were created by women in communities that provide them with better opportunities. My knitted dog Ella was named after my favorite dog from Barkin’ Blends Dog Cafe. She was knitted by a mama who also plants rice at the Ifugao province. I have traveled to the Banaue Rice Terraces last year because I was so inspired by the story of Knitting Expedition, the company that creates these knitted toys. This has since sparked my own crafting journey, and to this day, I still knit and crochet. I will forever treasure this trip. 

My crocheted unicorn is from Mayown, which is a brand that sells amigurumi dolls crocheted by underprivileged women in Manila. These dolls are designed by Leen Van Dyck, a Belgian expat who works as a teacher in an international school and also trains women to crochet so that they could provide for their families. I have joined her workshop last year, and it has also inspired me to create more! 

Lastly, my Tubbs cat doll is handmade by Pop Junk Love, a local brand that sells hand sewn dolls at indie store Commonroom. I admire the women behind this brand, whose growth I have witnessed ever since their bazaar days. I will always treasure this doll to remind me that it is possible to grow once passion is combined with hard work. 

I surround myself with these dolls to push me to continue creating and dreaming. Whenever times are challenging, it can be difficult to dream, but these dolls remind me that it is a must to continue aspiring for better days ahead. I’m sure that things will drastically improve in the coming days and weeks. All I have to do is dream, and carry on!

Infinite Fan

Yesterday, I finished crocheting this möbius shawl using chunky yarns from my favorite yarn store, The Attic Yarn and Craftery. I am excited to use this in my future job, and also during possible travels! It’s warm and cozy. 

All that crocheting made me hungry, so I ordered the Chicken Chizu Curry from Tori Chizu. 

It was a delicious baked rice meal which combined cheese and curry! I’ll definitely order from this place again. 

Then, it was time for me to book a ride to the National Shrine of Our Lady of Lourdes. 

The church is notorious for road closures during fiesta, so I opted to book a ride for a worry-free journey. 

Before the fiesta procession, I fueled up first with some food. 

I bought myself a Jolly hotdog and a choco float from Jollibee. Still so good!

I also prayed for my intentions, such as my dream to land a job very soon, and healing for my dad. 

Before I knew it, it was time for the procession!

It was a spectacular procession, just like the one last year. I am a Lourdes devotee because of the miracles I have received from Our Lady. I continue to pray for good health for myself so that I can still be a blessing to others. I also prayed hard for a job that will enable me to support myself and my family. 

Life is still a beautiful journey, and my faith keeps me going. For now, I will continue crafting, eating yummy food, and praying for more blessings! 

Morning Mass

Yesterday, I attended mass at Our Lady of Consolation Parish. 

I attended the 7am mass, then I visited my late friend Diane at the columbary beneath the church. 

After mass, I visited my dad in the hospital and crocheted the day away. 

It is possible to combine faith, friendship, and crafting in one day! I find ways to pursue my interests even if my days can be busy and hectic. It’s all about planning and knowing which materials to bring with me. 

Life is too short to be bored! 

Purposeful Saturday

Yesterday, I attended a meeting for a brand that I have been supporting for many years now. It was fun to interact with other ladies who also advocate for the brand. I can’t wait to see how our ideas can translate to better marketing strategies for this brand, and I certainly look forward to more collaborations with this brand in the future on an advocate basis. 

The meeting surprised me, because I realized that I have so many ideas to contribute and share. I am truly passionate about this brand because it gives back to communities that need work. It empowers people through dignified wages. And as both a core advocate and an end user, I am happy to help them improve by sharing my expertise. 

After my fruitful meeting, I went to Barkin’ Blends to spend time with their friendly resident doggos. 

It warms my heart that my favorite doggo, Ella, is always this excited to welcome me to the cafe. 

Spending time with her and the other doggos is priceless, and the comfort they bring is second to none. 

For dinner, I had Tapa King, which is a favorite from my childhood.  

I also had a cookies and cream frappe from Farron Cafe. It was delicious!

And before going home, I watched The Girl in the Orange Dress at Cinema Centenario. It always feels like home for me in this microcinema. I have a favorite seat there (G5!), and it’s the best way to end a productive day. 

I’ll always support brands that promote goodness and purposeful living in my own way. And in the course of my journey, I’ll find ways to unwind by spending time with dogs and supporting local films. Here’s to more purposeful Saturdays!

Brunch Bin

Yesterday, I had the toasted naked longganisa with brown talangka rice for brunch. 

I missed my Maginhawa favorite, and it’s still delicious!

For dessert, I had two scoops of Papa Diddi’s ice cream. I had cheese closed and barako- both flavors complemented each other perfectly. 

I have my usual foodie finds, and I can’t go wrong with them. If you find yourself craving for a hearty breakfast and yummy ice cream in local flavors at Maginhawa, look for the brands above! You won’t be disappointed. 

Midnight Burrito

The other night, I decided to go on a burrito run beyond midnight.  

I was starving, so I opted to have an old fave from my working girl days: the breakfast burrito with steak. 

Army Navy still serves an awesome burrito! It was packed with goodness, and I really got great value for my money.  

After my delicious snack, I crocheted until I fell asleep. 

It is truly a charmed existence as take care of myself while also caring for a sick family member. I find ways to have things to look forward to, such as a spontaneous late night meal or a crochet project. Life’s still beautiful.  

Exploring Growth

Yesterday, I started my day with a pasta salad from Juju Eats. I had the Sicilian salad with pesto dressing. 

Then, I went to Vista Mall Taguig for a meeting. But first, I explored this mall as it was my first time there. 

I had a glazed donut at Bake My Day. 

It was delicious!

Then, it was time for my meeting at Coffee Project. 

I loved the floral details in their interiors. 

I had an oatmeal cookie and a tall brewed coffee (not pictured). Both were yummy and awakening! I will definitely be back at one of their branches. 

I was feeling positive on the way back to Makati. 

I stopped by Glorietta to check-out Lazy Fare, a local boutique that has been making waves on social media for their eco-friendly stance of manufacturing clothes using reclaimed fabric. 

These reclaimed fabrics were rescued from landfills and turned into everyday basics for women. 

I especially appreciate their inclusive designs which cater to different tastes and body types. 

I bought a plain gray t-shirt and pink kimono. I only paid Php200 for both!

I am currently exploring opportunities for myself this year, and beyond. I am also trying out new cafes, clothes, and places. I hope that there will be more possibilities for me this 2019! 

Brunch and Beats

Yesterday, I had Rodic’s tapsilog to jumpstart my day. 

I ran some errands while listening to music. 

I also got to buy the Sunnies I’ve been eyeing and I am really glad to have a new pair to rock!

I can’t wait to slay in the days to come. For now, I have brunch to look forward to, commitments to fulfill, and this blog to update. I am truly lucky to have opportunities lined up in 2019!

Chinese New Year 2019

Yesterday, I started Chinese New Year with a visit to the Pink Sisters. 

Then, I played with my furry friends at Barkin’ Blends Dog Cafe!

I also got some souvenirs from Thailand from Ate Tina, one of the owners of Barkin’ Blends who has since become one of my good friends. 

I treated myself to a matcha soy refresher. 

For late lunch, I had a Falafel Yo! with no chili. 

I had a simple Chinese New Year celebration which I began with prayer. I hope that this year will be my best one yet!

Prayer and Luck

Yesterday, I managed to eat somewhere new! I’ve been hearing positive reviews about Sinji Dimsum at SM North Sky Garden. I ended up eating there primarily because of their interesting tiles. 

I ordered the truffle mushroom siomai rice meal and it was delicious! Their in-house garlic chili sauce perfectly spiced-up this dish.  

I sent a postcard via snail mail to one of my Human Nature online store clients after my hearty meal and coffee. Do support my entrepreneurial venture and click now to shop for natural and locally-made toiletries!

I also dropped by St. Clare Monastery to pray for good health, good vibes, and a fantastic job.  

Before going home, I chanced upon this auspicious dragon dance.  

I am optimistic for the future, and I can’t wait to see what lies ahead! With a little luck and lots of prayers, I know that I got this.  

Knitted and Crocheted Scarf

My friend Mitzie gave me some acrylic-wool yarn from New York when we saw each other last week, and I was excited to knit a cowl out of them! And so, on the feast of St. Blaise (patron saint of wool combers), I set out this yummy yarn together with my 10mm needles.  

I listened to some podcasts and just knitted away!

Usung chunky yarn and 10mm needles are a joy as my project was quick to accomplish.

For the blue part, I opted to use a 9mm hook to crochet instead of knitting. 

The end result is a variation of textures and yummy wooly goodness!

It was wonderful to knit and crochet this cowl while listening to a couple of podcasts. I’m also thankful to receive these yarns from a friend. I hope to continue making, knitting, and crocheting!

Pizza with Family

Yesterday was the feast of St. Blaise. There was a blessing of throats as he was known to heal a boy with a fishbone stuck in his throat. I had mine blessed after Sunday mass. 

Then, my family and I had pizza and chicken for lunch. 

My favorite from Shakey’s is the manager’s choice pizza! Hoping to have this again with my family in the future. 

Social Saturday

Yesterday, I bought my personal toiletries from the Human Nature Flagship Store. I also bought some orders for my customers. For all your natural personal care needs, just buy from my Human Nature Online Store! Thank you!  

I also claimed my Dealer ID from the girls at the store.  

I finally got my own Human Nature matte lipstick too! This is much talked about as the packaging is mostly paper. Here I am in the shade Warmth.  

I indulged in some pasta for lunch at the Vertis North weekend market. 

Then, I met up with my best friend Luti for some froyo at Elait,  

I ordered their strawberry mango cheesecake froyo and it was heavenly as always! 

We also had Fried Chicken Master. 

And for dinner, I had Kimchi Project’s kimchi rice.  

Life is always better with natural products, good food, and great company!