Father’s Day Gift

I crocheted this velvet bag for my single mom. I believe that Father’s Day should also be dedicated for moms who are raising children on their own. This gift is my simple token for my mom who became a single mother when my father passed away in 2019.

I crocheted this bag using velvet yarn from Shopee and a 5.00 hook. I followed this tutorial on YouTube, and modified it by making 45 rows for the body instead of the prescribed 25 rows.

How are you guys celebrating Father’s Day? Do you also crochet gifts for your parents? I hope that however you honor your parents on their special days, you do so with love and care.

Stay safe and healthy, everyone!

I Got Vaxxed!

Last June 15, I got my first Covid-19 vaccine dose! I was fortunate to receive the Sputnik vaccine at UP CHK Vaccination Site. As this was a special day, I wore the Ceres Top that I crocheted using scrap yarn from the earsavers I made for frontliners last year.

It was remarkable to meet Dra. Aileen who screened me before getting my jab. She was one of the recipients of my earsavers last year. It made me emotional because I did not really realize the impact of my volunteerism until then. It made me feel so blessed as I have come full circle.

Medical frontliners are rockstars! I got this vaccine in order to commemorate their hard work and to protect myself from the virus. I hope and pray that more people will get vaccinated so that we will achieve herd immunity.

Stay safe and healthy!

Killing ANTS

Today, my Spark Your Magic workbook tackled ANTS or Automatic Negative Thoughts. Their prescribed method for lessening negative self-talk is Jim Kwik’s ABRA or Acknowledge, Breathe, Release, and Align.

Here’s my ABRAcadabra list:

  • A is for ACKNOWLEDGE

    “Acknowledge your negative self-talk and don’t fight it because what you resist, persists. What are your ANTS today? Scribble them below.”

    1. Fear of being rejected

    2. Fear of being alone

    3. Anxiety because my contemporaries are getting married, having children, etc.

  • B is for BREATHE

    “Controlled breathing offers many health benefits, including reducing stress. Breathe in what you want. Jot down the things you “inhaled”.”

    1. A stable job

    2. More opportunities for my website

    3. More books (such as apop books!)

    4. More coffee

    5. A lifetime with my partner in life

    6. More crochet projects

    7. An afternoon at a coffee shop, such as Cinema ‘76 Cafe (a big deal during the pandemic)

    8. Mini Estela or Aadi bag from DBS

  • R is for RELEASE

    “Breathe out what you do not want. What did you exhale? List the things you want to let go.”

    1. Anxiety about weight gain

    2. Cabin fever

    3. Mood swings

    4. Unnecessary arguments with my loved ones, such as my partner

    5. My temper

    6. Angst

    7. Anxiety about jobhunting

    8. Negative relatives

    9. Negative “friends”

    10. Ungratefulness

  • A is for ALIGN

    “Create new thoughts and beliefs that are more aligned with who you really are and what you really want. Write them down here.”

    1. I have full control over my emotions

    2. I can thrive with or without a corporate job.

    3. I am fit and healthy

    4. I have enough time and passion to pursue my interests

    5. I am a writer and I am lucky because I have my own website

    6. I have a supportive partner

With my new ABRA strategy, I can manage my ANTS and improve myself during this pandemic and beyond!

Ceres Top

I just finished crocheting the Ceres Top by Filipina crochet designer Mgypsy. I used scrap yarns from the earsavers I crocheted for medical frontliners last year. I worked with a 4.00mm crochet hook.

I really enjoyed working on this pattern because the instructions were clear and the accompanying photos were informative. I wish nothing but success for this pattern’s talented designer.

I hope that you will also find a hobby that will bring you joy during the pandemic and beyond!

On Grief

Today, I reflected on the significance of grief in my life.

I first experienced grief when I lost my high school best friend Diane in a car accident in 2008. It was devastating to lose a sister-figure at such a young age as we have just graduated from university back then.

Diane was a freshman at Ateneo Law School and had a promising future ahead of her. I mourned the loss of a very good friend. At the same time, I mourned the loss of Diane’s future as a successful lawyer.

It was difficult to move on from that incident because Diane was the designated sensible friend in our group. She was the first person I would call for advice. Losing her meant having to find the answers to my own questions. And by now, I can say that losing Diane has turned me into a self-assured individual.

I mourned the loss of my father in 2019. He died of cancer. By that time, I already knew how to handle grief. It was not easy, but I gave myself space and time to mourn.

There were good days, and then there were bad days. Whenever grief would hit me hard, I would find comfort in productive activities such as workouts and crochet projects. I prayed whenever I felt hopeless. And I thanked God when days were filled with sunshine, and I would remind myself to also do the same in times of darkness.

Grief is simply a part of life. It has taught me how to keep on fighting in honor of those who have gone before me!

Keep Learning

I picked this card from my BDJ Dare to Be Creative deck today:

”What would you like to be better at this year?”

Here are the things that I would like to be better at for the rest of 2021:

  1. I would like to learn how to control my emotions better.

  2. I would like to learn how to sustain my career as a Content Creator through continuous journaling.

  3. I would like to learn how to publish an ebook.

  4. I would like to learn how to publish a book.

  5. I would like to learn how to crochet the Stella Top.

  6. I would like to learn how to crochet a velvet bag.

  7. I would like to learn how to crochet the Sehana Top.

  8. I would like to learn how to crochet the Calico Flowers Scarf.

  9. I would like to maintain my figure.

  10. I would like to learn how to continue my journaling habit.

I feel so blessed to have skills such as writing prose and crocheting because they make me feel young. There is always something new to write about, and there is always an interesting pattern to crochet. From here, I can continue expanding my horizons.

Indeed, the love for learning gives me a reason to live!

Center of Magic

I am still working on my Spark Your Magic workbook. Today, I was asked to identify my “Center of Magic”:

  • What are your talents?- I can write prose, blog, sing, play the flute, drive an automatic car, host events, run an online shop, and influence people.

  • What job or task are yo really good at?- I am a skilled communicator. I am an effective public speaker and a prolific writer.

  • What good deed are you most proud of?- I have been a World Vision sponsor for the past fourteen years.

I really enjoy journaling with the Spark Your Magic workbook because I get to identify my strengths and weaknesses. Lately, the pandemic has been feeling like a dark, heavy cloud above my head, so I feel the need to explore new ways to learn and grow each day. Who knew that journaling would open up my heart and spark the habit of writing everyday? In fact, this habit has even let me complete my book manuscript!

Great things start from small wins. I just joined a journaling workshop last month, and now, I am journaling on a daily basis. It has helped me process old wounds and look forward to each new day.

I am so excited to see where this journaling habit will lead me to!

Autotelic lets go of its painful past with hopeful new single ‘Iwan’

LISTEN NOW: Autotelic.lnk.to/Iwan

 When Filipino pop-rock bands in the early 2010s started to gain mainstream prominence, Autotelic emerged as one of the movement’s leading voices. From churning heartfelt anthems that reflect the sentiments and triumphs of the current generation to rocking the stage with unforgettable performances, the six-piece band sets the standards of what modern pop songcraft is all about: beautifully resonant at its most melancholic, and defenseless in its poignant honesty.

Fast forward to 2021, Autotelic’s music still hits home. Their work has been consistent in eloquently expressing the woes and rewards of being young, in love and emotionally wrecked, and is informed not so much by its time, but by timelessness and enduring appeal. These qualities are inevitably present on “Iwan,” Autotelic’s new single released under MCA Music Inc.

 

Teeming with earnestness and indelible pop sensibilities, Autotelic’s latest track sticks to the quivering fragility that often permeates their material. But this time around, vocalist and guitarist Josh Villena drowns the severity of his pained words with fresh learnings and new beginnings; his optimism earned, and completely devoid of pride and toxicity. On “Iwan,” both Villena and keyboardist/vocalist Kai Honasan trade harmonies over catchy, melodic guitar lines and engaging instrumentation, pouring their souls on the now-powerful mantra, “di namaliligaw, mawawala / hahanapan ng paraan” as if it means the world to them.

 

According to Villena, “Iwan” deals with regrets and doing everything you can to ensure that mistakes won’t happen again. The song was initially written for Josh’s side project, but because it shares more thematic affinity with previously released tunes, “Bago” and “Kuwentuhan,” the acclaimed alternative pop outfit decided to take ownership of the recording. 

 

As a result, the final version delivers everything you need to hear in an Autotelic song: a persistent hook that refuses to fade away, a melodic gift that carries gravity and escape all at once, and a powerful narrative that captures the sheer messiness of romance. In terms of music, the band was trying to relive the glory days of early 2000s pop-rock/pop-punk, while grounding its nostalgic tendencies with effortless dynamics and savvy sonic flourishes. 

About Autoetlic:

Autotelic is a Filipino pop band formed in Metro Manila in 2012. The band consists of Josh Villena (vocals and guitars), Neil Tin (guitars), Kai Honasan (keytar and backing vocals), EJ Edralin (synthesizer), Timothy "Pabs" Vargas (bass), and Gep Macadaeg (drums and sampler). Autotelic has gained a significant following in the Philippines and has played alongside international artists like Chvrches, Last Dinosaurs, Kimbra, Dishwalla, Oh Wonder and Martin Garrix, to name a few as well as playing their first Wanderland Music Festival in 2019.

 

In 2016, Autotelic signed with MCA Music with whom they released their album “Papunta Pabalik” which eventually received a platinum record certification. They were also chosen to take part in the first season of Coke Studio Philippines alongside such notable Filipino bands such as Sandwich, Ebe Dancel, Urbandub and Franco. In 2017, they were awarded the Best Performance by a New Group Recording Artist at the Awit Awards, the country's premier music award ceremony. 

 

After releasing their 5-track EP “Takipsilim” in October 2018 and new singles coming up in 2020, Autotelic continues to be one of the most sought-after bands of their generation.

“Iwan” is written by Josh Villena, and is produced by Autotelic and Marc Reyes. It’s out now on all streaming and digital platforms worldwide via MCA Music Inc. 

Follow Autotelic for more updates:

Facebook | Instagram | Twitter

 

Follow MCA Music for more updates:

Facebook  |  Instagram  |  Twitter  |  YouTube  |  Tiktok

Source: MCA Music

My Top Three Songs

Today, I picked this card from my BDJ Dare to Be Creative deck. I was asked to ”‘make a playlist and fill it with the soundtrack of your life! What are your top three songs?”.

Here are my Top Three Songs, as evidenced by how frequently I listen to them every single day:

  1. Across the Universe by The Beatles- This song was also a favorite of my late father’s. It reminds me of how short life is and how my life stays the same, even in an ever-evolving universe.

  2. Winter from The Four Seasons Allegro con Molto by Antonio Vivaldi- This has been my go-to song whenever I need to motivate myself. I love how it wakes me up and energizes me.

  3. Everlong by The Foo Fighters- This is the love song that has captured my hopelessly romantic heart. Fun fact: three ex-boyfriends of mine have dedicated this song to me. While I no longer have feelings for them, the song still moves me to keep on believing in true love.

Just like that iconic line in Across The Universe points out, “nothing’s gonna change my world”. Of course, from my point of view, life is constantly changing, but in the universal scheme of things, I remain to be a human being, a mere speck of cosmic dust.

I will always find that humbling.

Working Girl

Hello! My name is Sam, and I run a Human Nature Online Store! It is my main hustle, especially now that we still have the global pandemic upon us. The products I sell are 100% Made in the Philippines, using natural ingredients.

I am proud of my business because it enables me to earn, while also helping the workers who are employed by Human Nature.

Please support my small business by buying now! Your support means the world to me as it keeps me financially independent. My business also ensures that have enough resources to write more content for this blog, and to thrive during these difficult times!

Thank you in advance, and may God bless you!

Sloane Specs

I have been a longtime fan of homegrown optical shop Baobab Eyewear. Their lightweight frames have become a staple in my wardrobe, and their functional gadget safe lenses help me work with ease. I am delighted that they keep on improving their inventory, and they recently released specs that are both gadget safe and sun adaptive!

I knew that I had to get these, as I am already aware of the quality of Baobab specs. I got myself the Sloane in rose gold, while I got my partner the Mason in black. Both pairs turn into sunnies under UV light, and they are safe to use in front of blue light. I have tried using mine and they just feel weightless! I am really happy with my purchase.

Again, this is not a paid advertisement or a sponsored post. I highly recommend Baobab because they have provided me with affordable optical solutions. For graded specs, visit their website. For non-graded gadget safe specs, you may visit their Shopee page.

Stay safe, everyone!

Things Within My Control

Today, I watched Rica Peralejo-Bonifacio’s vlog episode on forgiveness. She shared some very important thoughts:

  • There are things that you cannot control

  • There are some things that are still within your control

  • God has control over everything

These are timely reminders for me as I am currently working on my temper. I have already trained myself to identify the fine line between triggers and actual manifestations of anger. Yes, there are several things that are upsetting and inconvenient each day, but that does not mean that I should act negatively each time. I can remind myself that there are still things within my control, and that I should focus on those instead.

Life is too short to dwell on upsetting realities. There are still more things to be thankful for than the bad. By focusing on things that are within my control and remembering that God has control over everything in this world, life would be less burdensome and treacherous.

Yeng Constantino’s Latest Single “Kumapit”will Inspire You to Hold on to God during Hard Times

Singer-songwriter Yeng Constantino is back with her newest song titled, “Kumapit.” The single which hopes to reassure Filipinos about the hope found in God amidst the pandemic is hitting the airwaves this Friday, June 11.

 In Kumapit, Yeng sings about how God understands our worries, fears, and even anger during difficult seasons in life. The song is a solid reminder that we are never alone in our battles and that we can always hold on to God.

 

“This song is for people who are struggling with their faith and struggling to see hope. I pray that as they hear this song, they will feel God’s presence even more. There are things in this world that we don’t understand but one thing remains: God is good. And we have to hold on to that,” Yeng said in the vernacular.

 

The OPM icon penned the song by drawing inspiration from the raw feelings she, her loved ones, and other people experienced, revealing that she, too, struggled with anxiety and depression when the COVID-19 pandemic hit the country.

 

“I struggled with my mental health during the pandemic. It's my first time to share this, but I undergo therapy for my depression. The pandemic increased my anxiety, sadness, and uncertainty.”

 

In these uncertain times, Yeng rediscovered that she can hold on to God and find hope, comfort, and strength – a beautiful revelation that can be heard in her latest single, Kumapit.

 

“My favorite lyric was ‘Hindi Siya yanig sa iyong galit.’ Sometimes we think that we can never ask God why things happen. God showed to me that He is not like that. He is a good father. So keep asking; God will not shush you. The more you ask, the more He reveals Himself to you,” Yeng shared.

 

The song is released under Star Music, co-produced by CBN Asia’s music arm, Reverb Worship PH. 

 

CBN Asia’s Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer John Valdes Tan said, “Reverb Worship PH has gone into a co-production agreement with Star Music to produce inspirational songs and our newest offering is called Kumapit. I believe that everyone who listens to Kumapit will be blessed by God through its beautiful melody and words of hope and grace.”

 

Pre-save "Kumapit" by Yeng Constantino today and stream the song on June 11, on Spotify, Apple, Deezer, and YouTube. Follow Reverb Worship PH on Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube for more updates.

Source: CBN Asia

Spark Your Magic

The pandemic has recently been causing me to feel heavy and desperate for change. I felt the need for a safe space for me to explore my emotions, so I purchased a Spark Your Magic kit by BDJ Planner. This is not a sponsored post, as I am just a happy customer! I received my kit yesterday, and I am very satisfied with my purchase.

I got the Renew Your Inspiration kit which includes a couple of notebooks, a gel pen, a deck of journaling prompt cards, and a downloadable workbook. I already started working on both the deck and the workbook. Both tools were designed to aid in self-expression and psychological first-aid during the pandemic. While this is not a substitute for professional help, it is an effective set of resources for someone like me who is looking for prompts to assist in healing and renewal. I especially appreciate how the prompts ask me to list down my strengths, which I have definitely taken for granted during the quarantine.

If you also want to journal this quarantine and know yourself better, I highly recommend the Spark Your Magic kits! They are afforable, locally-made, and effective.

Stay safe and healthy, dear readers!

Stress Management

I always get asked this question in interviews: “how do you deal with stress?”.

In the past, I would go window-shopping at malls near my office to decompress. But since the pandemic happened, I am both working and living at home. Because I live with my mom who is a senior citizen, it is my duty to avoid contracting the Covid-19 virus and to observe safety measures.

I had to be creative with stress management since I now do everything under one roof.

Here are some ways that I deal with stress, especially with the WFH setup:

  1. Listen to music- I have a work playlist that consists of classical music. This keeps me going while working.

  2. Journaling- Journaling everyday has allowed me to be aligned with myself and better manage my emotions.

  3. Working out every morning- I do an hour of cardio every morning, rain or shine. I used to attend aerodance classes at my local park, but for now, I am happy with jumprope, following Youtube videos, and my air stepper!

  4. Order food delivery- I satisfy my foodie cravings by ordering my favorites from time to time.

Remember that it is possible to manage stress at home. The pandemic is still ongoing so I personally manage my own stress in order to continue thriving during these difficult times.

Stay safe and healthy, everyone!

Sienna Bralette

I just finished this crocheting this Sienna Bralette. The pattern was designed by Monique Salibio a.k.a. @purls_ph and I used indophil yarn from Shopee. I modified the pattern by adding rows, thus turning the bralette into a crop top. I also used a 4.00mm hook instead of the prescribed 3.00mm hook.

I would recommend this pattern if you enjoy the alpine stitch. It is also pretty easy to accomplish, and it can be crocheted while watching Netflix.

Enjoy crocheting!

On Asking For Help

I felt down the other day. I was tired from a Zoom call, so I allowed myself to rest. I took a nap, wrote in my journal, and listened to music.

I also listened to this episode of The Linya-Linya Show wherein Ali and his guest Doc Gia spoke about the importance of asking each other “how are you?” and asking for help. This particular episode comforted me because two years ago, I was the one in need.

I was struggling because my father was terminally-ill. I was asking for help, but a lot of people in my circle chose to ignore my pleas. It was heartbreaking to receive negative criticism from my friends. There were those who called me “pathetic”, and then there were some who called me “weak”, “a beggar”, and “foolish”. To make it clear though, I never asked anyone for money. I just asked my contacts to buy from my Human Nature Online Store (please support!), and to help me find employment.

I am grateful to those who supported my small business during that difficult time, and even until now. And while I am still looking for a corporate job, I am already aware of my worth and my capabilities.

Right now, I acknowledge that there is no shame at all in asking for help. There is also strength in extending help whenever we can.

May we always remember to help ourselves first, then become a shining light to others!

Not Everyone Will Be Happy for You

Today, I am reflecting on the quote that podcaster and entrepreneur Angely Dub always says on her show, Life in Progress: “not everyone will be happy for you.”

I have experienced this firsthand, when my friends would ask how a company would invite me to an event or offer me an opportunity to collaborate when I do not seem to be qualified. In fact, I had to severe ties with some people who were not supportive of me, especially during the pandemic. My circle may now be smaller, but I must say that I am more stable and at peace without these toxic people in my life.

If you are also dealing with people who constantly pull you down, I suggest that you block them out completely. You must prioritize your mental health. You need to perform psychological first-aid on yourself, so stick to people who lift you up and bring out the best in you!

Next, always ensure that you constantly work on yourself. Make sure that you are always doing your best to have the best life possible for yourself. Compete only against yourself.

Remember that in order to be happy with yourself, you have to be find joy in things that you can do and accomplish. Stop communicating with people who cannot be happy for you. Just be strong for your own self!