Barkin’ Friday

I spent time with the fur babies of the Barkin’ Blends Dog Cafe east branch after running some errands yesterday. I love these dogs as much as the ones at their north branch. They have bigger dogs here, and there’s more space for the dogs to run around. I don’t want to play favorites, but I do have a soft spot for Cheska the rescued husky, Bucci the corgi-beagle mix, and Forrest, the daddy Irish setter.

I say again and again that these dogs take my stress and worries away. Every hour spent with them is therapeutic for me. I can’t explain it, but I always leave the cafe feeling like a better version of myself. I keep coming back because the dogs (in both branches) are incredibly sweet, and the humans behind this cafe have already become my friends.

I’ll be back soon, for sure!

Eat and Share

Yesterday, I indulged in some fast food favorites: the seafood omurice from 8 Bowls (for lunch) and the garlic butter chicken from KFC (for dinner). Both were delicious! Then, I donated blood and it felt rewarding.

If you’re in good health and you meet the criteria of the Philippine Red Cross, I encourage you to also donate blood! It will save lives and it’s also good for the soul.

13 Vacation Lessons

I recently went on vacation with my maternal relatives from the US. I rarely go on holiday as I usually prioritize my career, so it was a refreshing change for me. I got to spend quality time with family that I rarely see, and I also discovered some lessons which I have learned by simply going to a new location (in my case, it was two: Boracay and Coron!).

1. Knitting and crochet (as pictured) while on holiday is a luxurious experience. Any hobby in fact, when executed on a vacation, is simply magical.

2. Podcasts make the journey (long waits in airports anyone?) bearable.

3. It is never wrong to ask questions.

4. Souvenirs, when done sparingly, are not tacky at all.

5. Leave seashells and natural resources behind.

6. Take as many pictures as you can.

7. Time is precious. Make the most out of it by planning ahead. Yes, bring a notebook or planner on vacation!

8. Sunblock is my new BFF.

9. Lipstick and blush are all you need on vacay.

10. Church should still be a priority while on holiday.

11. Coffee is delicious, so finding local cafes is a must!

12. Handmade purchases are always the best souvenirs.

13. Investment pieces show their value while in the middle of trying situations, such as bumpy rides, flight delays, and long walks under the sun.

Carbonara dreaming

Yesterday, I had lunch at Cafe Mary Grace, which has become a staple for ladies who lunch. I got myself a carbonara with a half serving of wild mushroom soup, and of course a cuppa to finish off my meal. It was delicious, as always.

What I like most about eating at cafes is that my mind gets to wander. I usually have a notebook with me, so I take the time to list down my upcoming tasks, regroup, and write down some inspos. I also get to write my dreams for the future and goals in life. I don’t normally get to do this at home, because I have errands to do there, or I am just there to rest. Cafes keep my mind going as I savor my meals and down my coffee.

I am looking forward to more cafe dates, whether by myself or with my loved ones. There is always another cafe to explore, and another cuppa to enjoy.

Starfinder birthday

It was our loyal helper Racquel’s birthday recently, so I took her out yesterday for Greek food and a good time!

Then, we went to Starfinder Optical to have our eyeglasses made. She is nearsighted, and I wanted to give her a clearer perspective. It was also her first eye exam ever, but the team was exceptional in making her feel comfortable and explaining astigmatism to her (she also has astigmatism).

I chose a pair of modern titanium specs that are understatedly edgy.

It was rewarding to share the gift of vision to someone who has served our family for years and years. I am truly thankful to have her in my life, and I hope that she will continue to be with us for more years to come!

Different sunday

Yesterday, my relatives and I went back to Greenhills for more shopping. I had lunch at Spicy Chick for some halal chicken adobo served pastel-style: with a huge cup of rice (covering the chicken adobo flakes) and inside a banana leaf. It is meant to be eaten with your hands, and they provide plastic gloves. It was delicious and moderately spicy.

I also had pancit pinoy and brewed coffee from People’s Champorado stall. Then, I got myself a freshwater pearl bracelet and ended my day with some vodka apple before saying goodbye to my relatives.

I enjoyed their stay here in the Philippines, and I hope they did too. It was a fun experience to have family over to visit, and it felt like a holiday too for myself.

Here’s to more fun experiences with family and friends!

Foodie Saturday

I enjoyed my brewed coffee from Dunkin’ Donuts. I was on flu medication, so I needed the coffee to wake me up in time for dinner.

We had delicious dinner at Niu by Vikings, where I had pizza, truffle pasta, cocktails, beer, and coffee. It was the last dinner with my relatives, and we all enjoyed the variety at the buffet place.

I will surely miss my relatives when they fly back to the US tonight. I hope to see them again next time.

Workout and PearlOut

Yesterday, I worked out at the hotel gym where we stayed with my relatives in the US.

Then, I purchased my first golden South Sea pearl studs. They just make me feel regal and dignified.

For dinner, I had Kipp’s Chicken burger. It’s only available at SM Foodcourt at Megamall and Southmall. It’s simple, underrated chicken.

I enjoyed a blind massage before calling it a day. I had a good one with the help of self-determination and a pair of genuine gems. Here’s to more eventful days!

Burger and Friends

I am thankful for the opportunity to get to know my cousins from LA this week. We had burgers at 8Cuts, a local burger joint. It was fun, and I was able to enjoy their burger bomb (burger steak with rice).

Later during the day, I had a meeting at Edsa Shang and dinner with family friends at Sugi. It was a healthy balance of work and play.

I am definitely getting the hang of work-life balance now!

Las casas day

Yesterday, I got to visit Las Casas Filipinas de Acuzar, where I got to check out some heritage houses. It was a real treat to see Casa Lubao, where some scenes in Goyo was shot. After our tour, I had dinner at my aunt’s place in Pampanga, where I got to spend time with my cousins and their dogs.

It was a lovely day full of sunshine and good scenery. Looking forward to my next trip to Las Casas someday!

Palace and Pups

Yesterday, I got to visit the Malacañan Museum with my relatives from the US. It was remarkable to see Pres. Quezon’s desk and other memorabilia.

Then, we all drove to my the columbary where my dad is buried.

Then, I took my cousin Kimberly to Barkin’ Blends and Human Nature. It was fun to take her to my favorite places.

I enjoyed spending time with my family and I hope that there are more chances to be with them in the future!

Simple Joys with Cousins

Yesterday, I got to treat my cousins from the US to milk tea in Ortigas. It was nice to show them around my area. It was surreal to have them with me as I’m not used to having cousins with me in the Philippines, so this visit was a treat for me as well. Also, I got to tour them around the malls that I frequent.

We all had dinner at my aunt’s friends home, and it was lovely to bump into some beautiful models from the 90’s. I had quite an interesting day, and it was memorable to be with people that I don’t usually see.

I am glad that I was able to reconnect with my family and friends this week!

Summer Knitting

Yesterday, I knitted while having lunch and coffee at Summer Cafe in Coron. It was a ray of sunshine amidst the gloomy day.  

I ordered the cheesy omelette and americano. It was a delicious combination!

For dessert, I headed to Pedro’s Gelato, a local ice cream joint in Coron. 

I had the ube langka and mango sorbet. It was so good!

Then, I visited the mangrove forest near the Maquinit Hot Springs. 

It was fun to knit, be my foodie self, and explore nature all one day. Hope to have more memories with the things that make me happy.  

Coron Adventure

Yesterday, I conquered my fears of the open water and narrow caves. Coron brought out the adventurer in me and I enjoyed it. Here are some photos proving that my fitness journey is all worth it.

Here’s to more tours with Mother Nature to come!

Rainy Boracay

It was a rainy last day in Boracay. I worked out, ate breakfast, and enjoyed the rain along the shore. The beach is gorgeous and the view is unforgettable.  

I hope to be back someday! 

Boracay Day 2

Yesterday was my second one in Boracay. I enjoyed swimming in the beach and walking along the shore. 

I braved the monsoon to eat the famous piri piri chicken plate at Spicebird. That was delicious!

I also went back to a Boracay Leathers to buy a coin purse. I highly recommend this store for quality handmade leather goods. 

Later that night, my friend Pia took me out to have gingertinis at Aplaya. It was so good!

I can say that the island life is a relaxing break from the busy city and it was a privilege to experience it. It was also lovely to catch up with a friend. On to our next adventure!

Knitting By The Sea

Yesterday, I finally got to knit at Boracay. 

It was a treat to watch the waves crashing by as I stitched my scarf. 

I also got to buy functional souvenirs from local handmade merchants, such as Boracay Leathers. 

When it was time for a cuppa, I went to Real Coffee to sample their barako and famous calamansi muffins. 

I bought myself a personalized anklet from a handmade jewelry vendor. 

And even if I’m not into swimming, I enjoyed the remarkable white sand and pristine waters of Boracay. 

Getting out of my comfort zone is part of the journey. For every new experience, there is always knitting to keep me going so I know that there’s something to look forward to. 

Crochet in the Sky

It’s my first time at Boracay! I started my day with black coffee before boarding my flight with my mom and maternal relatives. 

It was a dream come true to crochet in an airplane. I enjoyed my leisurely flight as I hooked my way to landing. 

I even crocheted in the ferry. 

Boracay is breathtakingly beautiful! I can’t get enough of the clear waters and fine white sand. 

Our bedroom came with a teddy bear named Bogart. It was a fun touch that I immediately warmed up to. 

I can’t wait to explore the island more as I crochet, knit, and enjoy!

Sailor Mercury Sam

My cousin Carmel Lucas is a graphic artist and illustrator who does kawaii images of people. I recently commissioned her to draw me as a 90’s anime character, and here’s the result: 

She got my pixie and crystal glasses right! I love it, and it’s a dream come true to be a cartoon character.  

Please support her by commissioning her for portraits and illustrations! Her Instagram handle is @ame_senpai_art. You get to have a colorful portrait customized for you, and you will also be able to support an artist. 

Let’s all continue to lift each other up! 

Barkin’ Break

Yesterday was a beautiful day to visit my favorite dog Ella and the other flufffy doggos at Barkin’ Blends Dog Cafe. 

I received plenty of hugs while having coffee.  

Dogs have a calming effect on me, and I can’t wait to be back in the loving arms of these babies. 

What’s your coffee ritual? Mine involves dogs and furry hugs. Hope you also find your happy place!