Coffee Fix

I had a busy day filled with personal errands and work-related tasks. I was able to finish them all by late afternoon, so I drove to UP to have some coffee and a pain au chocolat at Nomu.

Then, I watched The Cleaners, a feature film from the Active Vista Film Festival at UP Film Cine Adarna. It was a gripping documentary about the outsourced content moderators working in BPO’s in the Philippines. Having worked in a BPO for more than five years myself, I can say that I have experienced the unhealthy effects of outsourcing, even if I did not exactly work as a content moderator. I have experienced wrath, anger, and racist remarks from customers overseas. Watching the negative effects which these content moderators had to go through as cleaners for Facebook, Twitter, and Youtube was excruciating. And yet, they were doing their jobs as cyber cleaners to provide a better future for their families.

I consider myself fortunate that I can afford to leave the BPO industry. I am hoping to be part of the academe soon, where the environment is more dynamic and forgiving.

Documentaries help me process my own life. To have a warm pastry and coffee along with the films I watch is sheer bliss.

I hope that you will also watch films that have social relevance, and have your favorite snack to make things sweeter.

Pray, hope, and don’t worry!

September 23 is the feast of Padre Pio, so I woke up early to have a hearty breakfast at Coffee Bean.

I had my favorite eggs ben and americano while people-watching at Eastwood.

I walked to Padre Pio Chapel in Libis to hear morning mass to celebrate our patron’s feast day.

After mass, there was a veneration of relics and blessing of holy objects.

Padre Pio’s gift of spiritual renewal and his mantra pray, hope, and don’t worry is presently relevant in my life. I am currently praying for a job offer and some personal intentions. I am also thankful for the blessings that continue to pour into my life.

May the intercession of Padre Pio continue to inspire us to live better lives in a world that always challenges us to fulfill the Gospels!

Saturday HapPiness

Yesterday, I served at He Cares Mission, had delicious lunch at Harvester’s Vegetarian, some cuddles at Barkin’ Blends Dog Cafe (where they had their anniversary dog buffet), and I was able to catch the advance screening of Jowable, starring Kim Molina.

I enjoyed all my activities, and I was lucky to share my time with the kids first thing in the morning. I continued doing the things I love throughout the day, and I couldn’t be happier.

May you also find the simple things that make your life fulfilling!

International Design Conference

Yesterday, I had fun at the International Design Conference 2019. It was held at The Eye at Green Sun, which was a hotel and conference center dedicated to the arts. I saw my friends Donna and Mariel there, and I also got to learn some insights revolving around the theme Design Futures.

Here are my key takeaways:

• 3D printers and automation in the advent of the Fourth Industrial Revolution should not hinder craftsmen from creating. Rather, it should foster collaboration between technology and manual craftsmanship to create better output.

• Creativity is still the same, whether it is aided with technology or not.

• People should be the center of design, not profit.

I am truly privileged to be part of this conference. I hope that I can apply my learnings to my work, as well as influence my decision-making process as a design thinker.

Candlelight Crochet

Yesterday, I got to crochet by candlelight at Wildflour. I had an unforgettable brunch! I feasted on their mushroom bowl, the milk ice cream, and their latte. It was a delicious way to celebrate my hobby and of course, to nourish myself.

Being a foodie and a crochet enthusiast has brought me to several restaurants where I could enjoy my hobby in public. I love bringing my yarn and hook with me wherever I go. I think the handmade life should go beyond the home. It should be expressed and lived with pride, whether in private or in full view of the world.

May you also find the hobby that brings you joy, and the courage to experience that joy in public!

Pink and Blue

Yesterday, I finished crocheting this fluffy infinity scarf. I executed it in drunken granny scarf, which I learned from Youtube. It was fun to work on this project while eating at restaurants, having coffee, and in transit. Also, I read books while mindlessly hooking this scarf together. It was a productive time for me.

It was sheer bliss to use The Attic Yarn and Craftery’s acry-drops yarn and a Susan Bates ergonomic 5.5 crochet hook. I purchased the yarns and hook from the Attic during my birthday month. I am glad that I chose this pink and blue combination, which worked well together.

Freestyle crochet will always have a special place in my heart. I get to be creative while watching a movie, reading a book, or dining solo. Productivity has never felt this good, and fluffy!

BB-8

I just crocheted one of my favorite Star Wars characters, BB-8. I enjoyed following the pattern from the book I got from the recently-concluded MIBF. I realized that I can follow patterns after all, and this has boosted my self-confidence.

I look forward to crocheting more in the future, and yes, I won’t be afraid of following patterns anymore! The Force is truly with me.

Jawa

Yesterday, I crocheted a Jawa from my Star Wars crochet book. I bought it from the recent MIBF, which was eventful for me.

I enjoyed the process of making this amigurumi doll. This MIBF experience was rewarding for me as I was able to restore my self-confidence. I was previously unsure if I could follow patterns. Turns out, I could and it was fun to do so.

Books can impart knowledge and information. In my case, it has even caused me to have faith in myself. Reading and crochet are both remarkable, life-changing hobbies. I hope that you will also experience your own breakthrough soon.

Embracing Myself

Yesterday, I began my day with some word search and a cuppa.

Then, I got my mom a birthday cake for her 60th year.

I chose Remilly’s yema cake, which was my late dad’s favorite.

Then, my mom and I went with my Ninong Oscar to MIBF. I got myself a copy of Walk Manila, which was produced by FEU. I was ecstatic to find this, as I enjoy commuting and walking around Manila.

Then, we attended the book launch of our family friend Fr. Phil Estrella. He released his book Embracing the Thorns of Our Hearts last night to a crowd of his friends and followers. It was a fun celebration of life and friendship.

Of course, my MIBF experience wouldn’t be the same without the sumptuous food. I had a bahn mi and macaroni, which were both delicious.

I ended my MIBF visit with a Star Wars crochet book.

I cannot really embrace myself, so best path to self-love is through books, food, coffee, and friends. I am well-stocked with all those, and I am truly fortunate.

Weave and Woofs

Yesterday, I had a weaving brunch with my fellow workshoppers under The Art of Yarn. We ate at Motto Motto, a Japanese restaurant at Serendra. It was lovely to catch-up with our weaving teacher Judith and meet new friends, such as Tisha of Why Knot Craft. I enjoyed the experience, and I loved my chicken tocino and flat white.

After my brunch with the ladies, I proceeded to Barkin’ Blends Dog Cafe to hug my furry friends.

I had a wonderful Saturday filled with craft and dogs. There is joy in yarn and fur!

Film therapy

Yesterday, I watched three movies: Open, Cuddle Weather, and Malamaya. All three Filipino films were well-made and beautiful. In between these movies, I ate comfort food and even had dinner at Gubat. It was a solo therapy from the stressful realities of the world.

There is nothing that can’t be solved by comforting eats and thought-provoking films. Life is too short to be frustrated all the time. It should be lived and appreciated with every spoonful and scene watched.

Books and Gubat

Yesterday, I took a tuktuk to the Manila International Book Fair! It is one of my annual events, and I bought books and Japanese pens. I also ate catered food for lunch (it’s part of my MIBF experience!).

I later went to Sta. Clara to pray for my special intentions. Then, I ended my day with early dinner at Gubat and coffee at Nomu with my best friend Luti.

Life keeps getting better as long as I have books, gel pens, delicious food, and great company.

Mass and brekkie

Yesterday, my mom and I woke up early for 6AM mass at the Pink Sisters Convent in Quezon City. It’s my go-to place for quiet time and prayer in the middle of the city.

Then, we had breakfast and coffee at SGD. I had the danggit lamayo with mountain rice. Also, I had my beloved SGD black coffee while crocheting. It was a relaxing ritual that was paired with a delicious drink.

I thrive in an environment where I can nurture my spiritual life and eat healthfully. I can’t wait to see my plans being fulfilled in the coming weeks and months!

Critter Cool

Yesterday, I got to spend the afternoon with my furry friends at Barkin’ Blends Dog Cafe. Their north branch has a special place in my heart as my favorite dog, Ella, stays there. Her hugs and kisses brought a smile to my face. Indeed, being with dogs keep me happy as their presence is therapeutic. I can’t wait to go back!

I ended my day with a new Starbucks Bearista bear in siren costume. I could not resist mermaids and bears, so a combination of both themes is absolutely irresistible for me. I bought the bear with my own money, and went home happy!

It does not take much to keep me going, as I am a fan of dogs and toys (even at thirty-three)! Being childlike is an asset in this day and age, as I know how to live life lightheartedly. It is up to me to see the beauty of life as I play the game of balancing adulting and being forever young.

I Shawl Return

Yesterday, I just finished crocheting my first shawl. I followed a pattern on Youtube, and purchased the yarn and hook online from The Attic Yarn and Craftery. This is proof that technology and a traditional handicraft can coexist. Online shopping for notions and tutorials have worked for me to improve as a crocheter and become more passionate for the craft.

While most people encourage me to take on more advanced projects such as cardigans and amigurumi, I have happily carried on with scarves because I enjoy crocheting while reading, listening to podcasts, and watching movies. It is quite challenging to follow a pattern while engaging in another pastime. Since multitasking is the way I go, I prefer to work freestyle and enjoy more hobbies in the process.

This is why this shawl is remarkable for me. While it is imperfect, I have followed a pattern from beginning to end. It was admittedly less fun than crocheting while listening to a comedy podcast. However, I realized that I can still follow directions and upskill in a digital medium.

I still have a lot of room to grow, and it is comforting to know that I can make something that it is intricately instructed. I have restored my faith in myself thanks to this shawl.

This won’t be the last pattern I will follow. For now, I am beginning a new scarf using the same hook but a totally new ball of yarn.

Here’s to new skills and beginnings!

Hail Mary!

Yesterday, I got to attend the launch of Mama Mary and Her Children Book Six. It was a packed event at National Bookstore Glorietta, where the book’s contributors and friends of the late Fr. James B. Reuter, SJ gathered to witness this event. I got to see faith in action during the party as one of the authors, Rowie Matti, personally welcomed me. It was quite awkward for me to be there as Fr. Reuter was a friend and mentor to my ex. We would even visit his grave at Novaliches, to pay respects and to recharge amidst the trees planted on Jesuit property. While it was a blessing to have discovered the Mama Mary book series in 2017, I had to let go of this relationship as it was no longer serving me as a person.

Since then, I focused on myself and rebuilt my faith. I was genuinely surprised when Rowie messaged me a few weeks ago to invite me to the book launch. I explained to her my hesitation, but she reassured me that she will see me there. And she told me, it’s Mama Mary’s birthday after all.

And so, armed with courage, I attended the event. My ex was not there! But Rowie, who is now my friend, was there to welcome me. So was an army of fellow Marian devotees! I received a rainbow rosary and a Divine Mercy stampita, which is bittersweet as it was my late father’s devotion.

I bought the signed copy of the book, which is a compilation of personal stories of people who were blessed through Mama Mary’s intercession. Not all of these stories can be considered miracles. Most of them in fact were about everyday breakthroughs and challenges which were overcome through prayer. In an age where technology is overtaking our lives, it is refreshing to read ordinary stories of faith, hope, and love.

I highly recommend this book, as it is a reminder for everyone that when God closes a window, He sends us his Mother to help us pass through the door He has opened.

‘Til the next book launch! Ave Maria!

Sunnies World

Yesterday, I attended the opening of Sunnies World at Megamall. It is the first branch that houses four of the Sunnies brands: Sunnies Studios, Sunnies Specs, Cup Point, and Sunnies Face. Sunnies is close to my heart since they made me one of the winners of their Dear Sunnies Santa giveaway. Since then, I have been a fan of their products. Now that I can buy a new pair of specs again, I visited their opening and got myself a merch bag for being one of the first 50 in the store. I got a tote bag, a sweatshirt, a Sunnies Agenda 2020, screen-safe lens upgrade, honey latte, a pair of Sunnies, a Sunnies Face fluffmatte lipstick in nudist, and stickers.

The specs that I chose were the Humphrey in coin. I also got myself a lip dip in Girl Crush, and a pair of Sunnies to give to my friend (she’s celebrating her birthday!). I also got to meet the people behind this iconic brand. I enjoyed the party, and I’ll definitely be back (especially for that honey latte!).

More than the beautiful interiors and eye catching aesthetic of their brands, it is the kind people behind Sunnies World that makes it stand out. I’ll forever be a fan!

13KM

Yesterday, I travelled 13KM to a meeting in Manila. While I have always enjoyed commuting to the capital to pray at St. Jude or enjoy the National Museum, I was there for potential work. It made me giddy to possibly work in the city that has captured my imagination for so long. After all, a history buff like myself thrives in heritage buildings and significant locations. I do hope and pray that this opportunity will push through so that I can finally be a Manila girl.

I can’t wait to spend more time in Manila and earn a living in the city where heroes thrived!

Slay, Pray, Play

I had a productive Thursday. I started my day with a meeting in Manila. My brunch consisted of this hearty mac and cheese, which was topped with sunny-side up egg. I ordered corn and cheese jello for dessert. It was a delicious combo!

After my meeting, I headed to Sta. Clara to pray for my upcoming opportunities, and to give thanks for all the blessings that I continue to receive.

I proceeded to Barkin’ Blends Dog Cafe for some quality time with my furry friends from the east. Spending time with dogs is therapeutic for me, and it keeps me balanced.

I ended my day with some dirty ice cream at UP. I was in the campus to watch Pan de Salawal, an indie film which warmed my heart.

I make sure that I have enough hobbies to make life meaningful. Working all the time is not sustainable, so whenever I have time to spare, I visit the dog cafe, watch movies, and pray for more chances to slay. Life is about balancing my priorities and making each day colorful. And of couse, I show up daily to blog about it here on speakoutsam.com.

Staying moved

Yesterday was day 2 of my volunteer activity for Moved.org. I sorted worksheets and even met Chelle, one of my followers on social media. It’s heartwarming to know that I can influence people to serve! Even if I am still waiting for the right full-time job and partner, I am able to extend my help wherever I am needed. I also post my advocacies online to hopefully influence others to also volunteer.

By offering my time, I am staying true to my advocacy of sharing what I have. It was rewarding to be of service this week, and I even prayed at the building’s prayer room to give thanks and ask for guidance on my upcoming endeavors.

I ended my day by claiming my free plant from jeweler friend Pulseras by Kim and dinner at Breakfast Bin.

Life is good!