NAIA Work Day 1

Yesterday, I had my first day as a NAIA Buyer Services Representative for the IFEX 2019 (food expo). My first time to be a NAIA rep was last April for Manila FAME. I am thankful to CITEM for the opportunity to serve our country once again and to return to work in such a unique way. 

I got my pass to assist buyers from overseas. During my downtime, I got to crochet, eat, and get to know my shift partner, Alyssa. I also got to chat with airport staff Jang who kindly helped me with my job for the next four days. 

After work, I treated our loyal helper Racquel to dinner, coffee, and a movie at UP Film. 

I enjoyed my day at work and with our helper in the movies. It was another productive day. I know that with days that are balanced such as this one, I can manage to live a good life amidst all the challenges that I recently faced. 

Knots and Dogs

Yesterday was my first visit to Barkin’ Blends Dog Cafe since my dad’s passing. It was bittersweet because I was at their other branch when my dad passed away. I felt the healing power of dogs and their dedication is admirable. Of course, the first doggo I hugged was my favorite one, Ella.  

Later during the day, I finished crocheting the scarf I was making using one of the yarns from my Rosario Yarn Adventure. 

With dogs and crafts, I know that I will be able to carry on just fine.  

Grip on Grit

Yesterday, I had breakfast at SGD Coffee in the Maginhawa area. I was reminded of the grit that is inherent in me, as I saw the bracelet on my stack. 

The cafe was a lovely tribute to the mountains in the middle of the summery city. 

I had my usual SGD black as I crocheted. 

I also got myself an oatmeal cookie. It was to die for. 

If you need strong coffee, and chunky oatmeal cookie, and a quiet space for working and reflecting, SGD is your best bet. Not an ad, I am simply a fan of the place. Do check it out soon!

Coloring My Vision

I ordered a pair of tinted specs from local optical shop Sunnies Specs. I won a pair of glasses during their Dear Sunnies Santa giveaway last December. Since my father passed away recently, I felt the need to start anew and I’ve always wanted to support Sunnies Specs after their generosity last Christmas. 

I get new glasses during new beginnings. I believe that it is now my time to be stronger and more stable after my father’s passing. These new tinted specs will not only keep me looking smart, but they will also inspire me to live life more colorfully. 

I’ve also been getting more sleep and it shows on my clear skin. 

After claiming my specs, I went to CITEM in Pasay for my training. I am chosen to be a NAIA Services Representative for the second time. The upcoming IFEX fair will usher in foreign buyers, and it is my job to welcome and assist them at the airport. 

I can’t wait to begin this three-day “modeling gig” and meet new friends. 

After my meeting, I had late lunch at Echo Cafe, a sustainable social enterprise that sells natural products and healthful food.  

I had their delicious banana heart burger and cafe espagnole, which is a mix of coffee and chocolate. So good! 

I capped the afternoon by visiting my best friend Luti at her condo. She took this photo of me from her window.  

I had my pixie trim for the month of May and a massage to relax me after a long day. 

I also received this gift of semiprecious bracelets from Luti. I am eager to release negative emotions and have more energy this year!

Here’s to more colorful opportunities and blessings on this new beginning! 

Picturing Happiness

I spent the weekend at my best friend Luti’s condo. Our friend Amabelle was in town (she’s based in Batangas), so we watched Netflix while catching up. 

Luti’s condo is right in the middle of the city. It’s also near a couple of malls that I frequent. 

The sunrise looks pretty from her window. 

We did some brisk walking early Sunday morning.  

I also bumped into my friend from Human Nature, Cindy. 

We had breakfast at UP’s local resto, Chocolate Kiss.  

Their tsokolate (hot chocolate) was delicious. 

So was this longganisa brekkie plate.  

We ordered cakes in honor of our late friend Diane’s birth anniversary.  

It was also a pleasant surprise to see the photo I submitted to Manila bulletin get published.  

I needed a cuppa after our heavy meal, so I got myself an iced latte from Nomu.  

It’s a well-balanced cuppa! I highly recommend it. 

Back in the condo, I was even able to do some crocheting.  

Later during the day, we went to the mall and I donated this Project Aral kit with slippers. It has become my tradition to donate kits every year. Hahahahaha  

I had yummy burger steak from Bigger Better Burgers.  

I managed to find a pretty floor. 

And I witnessed a beautiful sunset.  

I had quite a lovely weekend. Thank you Luti! 

Summer Nature

Yesterday, we had the launch of the newest products at the Human Nature Flagship Store. My favorite is the new green tea lotion. Please help me by buying from my Human Nature Online Store. Support my small business, and help me thrive!

I had fun during the party, and it was also great to catch up with my friends there. Here’s to more sales and opportunities to share the goodness of social enterprise with others! 

Mama Sol’s 75th Birthday

My first event since my dad’s death was my friend Addy’s grandma’s birthday. I appreciated their invitation as I really needed a night of dinner and dancing. I had fun, and j even met new friends. With friends who got my back, I know that I will be just fine. 

Friends and Family

Yesterday was my dad’s funeral mass. We had close friends and family to stand with us during this trying time. 

I am incredibly lucky to have the support I need at this time. I will not take anything for granted anymore. Life is too short. Make each minute matter. 

Toast to Life

Yesterday, I was joined by my mom and maternal relatives for a day of unwinding. We visited the church where my parents were married.  

Then, we had lunch at Livestock for some delicious comfort food.  

We transferred to Hello Kitty Cafe for dessert and coffee.  

I also managed to crochet throughout the day.  

It is possible to go on living with family at my side.  Despite the pain of losing a loved one, I can carry on with life, one day at a time.   

Goodbye

My dad was cremated yesterday. Thank you for all you support during this difficult time.  

Gourmet Healing

My mom and I celebrated Mother’s Day at Mango Tree Bistro. Her brother Butch joined us for lunch, and it was a festive feast amidst the sadness of my dad’s recent passing. 

I had the tom yum spaghetti and Thai iced coffee. Both were delicious!

Yes, it’s possible to heal from pain through food. When taken in moderation, food (and coffee, of course!) can uplift the soul. Will definitely have more pasta and caffeine! 

Summer Pinks

I just finished knitting this infinity scarf at the hospital where my dad was confined. He told me that he wanted a blanket from me, and when I asked which colors he would want me to include in the project, he told me that he was simply thinking about it. 

I finished this scarf right before my dad passed away. 

It was handmade with love for my cousin Abby in Canada. I hope that she will like it. 

Life is too short. Here’s to more stitches and ties that bind us. 

Comfort in Sadness

My helper Racquel and I attended a healing mass yesterday to pray for my terminally-ill father. It was held at the Blessed Ivan Merz Reliquarium in Marikina City.  

After mass, we proceeded to Barkin’ Blends Dog Cafe to unwind over food, milk tea, and dogs!

I was in the company of angels tonight. Thank God for dogs, people who can help, and loved ones who care.  

Spicing Up Life

My life right now revolves around my terminally-ill dad. Whenever I need a break, I walk around the hospital.  

I buy food from nearby establishments, such as Bonchon.  

I knit.  

And I talk to friends, such as Bianca (kinder and grade school classmate) and her boyfriend JP.  

They gave my dad this prayer card from Padre Pio Chapel in Libis.  

I am grateful for friends, food, and yarn that keep me going during this tough time. With a dash of faith and a lot of prayer, I know that I got this.  

Tied Down

Yesterday, I had a difficult day as I encountered problems in the bank. I had to discuss my status quo with the manager, who didn’t seem to grasp the urgency of my situation at first. She did help me after my explanation, and I am awaiting the full resolution of the issue within the week.  

Having said that, I decided to unwind with some cheap thrills at the mall: a sizzling burger steak and iced coffee shake.  

I also got to watch Tayo sa Huling Buwan ng Taon, which is the sequel to one of my favorite local indie films, Ang Kwento Nating Dalawa. 

It was beautifully acted and very sad.  

I stayed at the hospital with my terminally-ill father, and I found him restrained to his bed to prevent him from removing his respirator. It was sad to see him this way, so I have to keep myself strong in the coming days.

I just have to find ways to be happy amidst the darkness of my current situation. 

Going Up

Yesterday, I found this staircase at the hospital with natural light. I couldn’t resist taking a selfie in the sunny stairwell. 

I knitted as I cared for my terminally-ill father. 

Then, I joined my US and Canada-based relatives as they toured the village where we all grew up. I stayed here until I was twelve years old. 

We ended the day with dinner with Tarlac-based relatives and more Filipino food! 

I drove them in the rain, and I’m happy that we reached their hotel safely. 

I enjoyed my relatives’ company, and their visit reminded me that there’s nowhere to go but up. In tough times, there’s family I can count on, and faith to strengthen me.  

In Good Company

Yesterday, I had lunch with my helper Racquel at a Greek restaurant. We had to finish some errands, and this was a delicious break from our tasks. 

Then, I met my maternal relatives from the US and Canada for early dinner. We ate Filipino food, and had a massage afterwards. 

I even managed to squeeze in some knitting while having my massage. 

As an only child, it’s important that I find good company to help me get through my dad’s terminal illness. I’m glad that my maternal relatives supported me during this difficult time, and that my helper is always willing to extend a helping hand. They inspire me to keep going, no matter how bleak the days seem to be. 

Here’s to better days ahead! 

My Main Job

Yesterday, I rode the tricycle to my former office. 

I submitted my resignation yesterday because I was suffering from allergies at work. I’d have to find an office that won’t compromise my health. Health is valuable to me, especially now that my dad is terminally-ill. 

I also need more time to take care of my father now that he is in critical condition in the hospital. I bought adult diapers and liners. I also got medicines from the pharmacy. 

I need to fan him from time to time due to his medication. It’s not easy caring for someone who’s terminally-ill, so I have to be strong as well. 

This is my main job for now. I can look for work again when things stabilize, but for now, I am my father’s carer, and I am up for the challenge.  

Healing and Hugs

Yesterday, I went to the St. Camillus Provincialate to attend their monthly healing mass. It was my first time to experience mass there, and my helper Racquel joined me to pray for my dad. 

The sacrament of Anointing of the Sick followed shortly after the mass. I prayed for my dad and my best friend Luti. 

We had breakfast at Kopi Roti, where I got to introduce Racquel to a Singaporean brekkie of soft boiled eggs, kaya toast, and kopi. 

We also had dirty ice cream for dessert.  

I spent time with my dad in the hospital, then I proceeded to Barkin’ Blends to cuddle with the dogs there, like my favorite dog Ella. 

Church, dogs, and food keep me going. Here’s to better days ahead! 

Faith and Family

I am thankful for family during this difficult time. My cousin Van sent us pastries, and I’ve been having delicious bread for brekkie. 

I am thankful for our helpful Racquel who had helped me through thick and thin. 

I am thankful for street food, such as these potato chip skewers. 

I am thankful for knit and crochet. 

I was able to give my makes to my relatives from the US. 

I am thankful for a friend I met online whose ministry is to share wooden holding crosses to the sick and their families. 

I am grateful for the gift of life. I am thankful for time with my terminally-ill father. I am happy that I can still share memories with my family. 

We are all in this together.