God’s Perfect Timing

I started working at my new employer yesterday, and it was fantastic! I was ecstatic to be back in an office, and I even wore red as it was a color that made me feel confident. I am still adjusting and committing names and processes to memory, but I will definitely get the hang of it.

You see, I consider the date of my return to work important because it is a testament to how faithful God is.

I prayed for a new job immediately after resigning from my previous corporate role last year. My last day there was on July 21, 2017. I asked God to give me work and opportunities for learning as I looked for employment.  

And I asked Him to give me a job before July 21, 2018. 

I was realistic with my expectations, as I was aware of the job market. I attended interviews and turned down offers if the company did not reflect my values and work ethics. I enhanced my skills by attending seminars, conferences, workshops, and webinars. 

I even learned how to knit at the Banaue Rice Terraces and I got to reflect on my jobhunting situation as I whipped up scarves and beanies.

Knitting has taught me to be patient, as I had to pull out my stitches and begin again if I committed a mistake. It was a frustrating process, but I am glad that I began again because my projects look better.

What I am trying to say is that I learned how to remain faithful to God as I was looking for employment. I continued attending seminars every month in institutions such as the ADB and AIM. I prayed and visited churches. I worked out, read books, and listened to podcasts.

I felt that God was making me begin again, every single day. 

And just like with my knitting stitches, I learned how to patiently wait for the right opportunity for me.

I was already feeling frustrated with my corporate offers because pre-employment takes ages in banks. So when this company called me for an interview, I did not hesitate to try it out. I passed their assessment and exams, and I got an offer to work with them as an Office Manager.

I signed the offer on July 19, 2018. I was set to begin on July 23, 2018. 

I was stunned. God simply wanted me to wait, be a good daughter and help my dad with his work, and attend learning opportunities as I knitted and blogged on the side. But He was faithful, because He gave me a job before my “gap year” was up. 

God is a faithful God. His timing is perfect, and His blessings are on point. I look forward to a fruitful career in my new company. I may have to minimize my blogging when work gets busier, and I have to respect my company’s confidentiality clause so I cannot write about my job or my office. But I will still blog about my story, because my life is entirely my own.

If there is any doubt in your heart right now, think of how God faithfully answered my prayers for the right job, at the right time. I hope that He will bless you too, and that His timing will persuade you to keep the faith! 

Breakfast and Barks

Yesterday was my last day of “freedom” before returning to the corporate world. I started it with Zumba and a hearty breakfast at my local park.  

Then, I had went to my favorite dog cafe, Barkin Blends!  

I braved the storm to visit my furry friends.  

They now sell pastries and burgers to-go for dogs. 

I got the royal milk tea and Bonnie burger.  

It was delicious! 

I cuddled with Ella and the rest of the buddies after my meal.  

My heart and soul are full of love. I am excited to work again, as I have maximized my break from the workforce. I will bring wih me positivity and optimism as I encounter my tasks in my new role. Everything will be alright, and I will surely return to the dog cafe once the weekend rolls by!

Loving QC

The other night, I decided to have mushroom bibimbap from O! Kitchen for dinner. It was delicious!

I burned it yesterday with Zumba. 

I recovered with breakfast burger steak and coffee. 

I pedaled on the stationary bike at the park.  

And I took a brisk walk around the gardens.  

I crossed Elliptical Road and found myself at the QC Public Library.  

I enjoyed reading and working on yesterday’s blog entry via the high-speed WiFi connection.  

I enjoyed my time with books and knowledge around me! 

For lunch, I had the 100 tomato pasta... 

...and the guiltless strawberry cake from Icing’s. 

I had a check-up at the hospital and I loved their groovy staircase.  

Later during the day, I dropped by the newly-opened Human Nature store at SM The Block. 

I got myself a couple of pairs of cute scissors from Books for Less.  

And I got a meaningful mirror from The Craft Central to remind me of that being happy is a choice.  

I ended my day with anticipated mass and this mango and chocolate crepe.  

I love Quezon City and I am proud of my hometown! I hope that you will also find yourself in any of the places I’ve been to, because they’re worth visiting. I am happy that there are so many affordable ways to enjoy myself in QC. I will surely miss being here everyday as I will work soon in Ortigas. But that doesn’t mean that my life will stop, just like that. I would just have to blog on the side, and maximize my weekends in order to speakoutsam! 

Paper Cranes and Puppers

Yesterday, I went back to the hospital to run some errands. I was pleasantly surprised to find this paper crane tree, as it symbolized wishes coming true. As I embark on a new chapter in my career, I am excited to fulfill my personal goals and help my company grow. 

I then proceeded to my happy place, Barkin’ Blends Dog Cafe for some R&R over milk tea... 

...and my favorite doggo, Ella! 

Life is all about perspective. Right now, I am facing tough challenges, but I see them as opportunities. I am excited to see myself learning, adjusting, and growing. I am also eager to balance my life, through recreational activities like visiting the dog cafe.  

I hope that you will also find ways to turn challenges into opportunities for growth, one day at a time.  

Thankful for UA&P

Yesterday, I visited my alma mater, UA&P. I was in the area to settle documents with my new job. 

But first, I needed to say hello to my uni and former office.  

I was happy to find more PC workstations at the CAS library. 

I crossed the street for some Food Channel shawarma rice. 

It’s still delicious!

I dropped by my former office, the School of Sciences and Engineering. 

After chatting with old friends and sipping UA&P’s famous milk tea (which is still yummy!), I went to the mall to buy myself a new watch strap. 

I rewarded myself for a year of work and blogging. 

As I begin a new chapter with my new employer, I look forward to more rewarding experiences. 

I ended my day with more adulting at a nearby hospital, with a charming chapel. 

I prayed for better days ahead, and more opportunities to spread my wings. I am thankful for UA&P, and it’s time to apply all that I have learned both as a graduate and a former employee. 

It’s time for me to speakoutsam and rock on! 

Waterproof Willpower

Yesterday, I worked out again despite the rain. I realized that I am determined to burn calories even if there’s a storm. 

Indeed, my willpower is waterproof.

I manage to motivate myself even in difficult circumstances like storms. In fact, I even watched a movie and rewarded myself with a delicious shawarma rice bowl from Persian Avenue. 

I later joined my family to attend the wake of one of my grand aunts at Pampanga. I got to bond with my cousin Lauren’s dog Rogue, who was such a sweetheart.

And I also got to catch-up with cousins Lauren and Jean. 

The church at Minalin, Pampanga had these beautiful doors. I couldn’t resist having my photo taken with them. 

Having waterproof willpower helps in keeping myself going, no matter the circumstances. I am excited to apply this to my career, and I look forward over seeing the blessings pour into my life in the process!

Burning Through the Rain

Yesterday, I was determined to workout despite the stormy weather. I drove to my local park and powered through Zumba. 

Guess what? It was even more fun to workout in this cool weather! The breeze was refreshing.  

And we all know that rainy weather calls for good eats. My brekkie was this quick friend beef and macaroni soup from Tropical Hut. 

As for lunch, I ate this delicious asparagus mayo spaghetti from Kimono Ken. 

I always find creative ways to enjoy my day, no matter what the weather is. I am thankful for opportunities to maximize my day, such as affordable workouts and yummy grub. Here’s to more blessings and chances to shine!

Thankful

Yesterday, I began my day with a workout. 

Then, I had a hearty brekkie.  

I proceeded to a meeting which was so productive, I was moved to go to St. Clare to give thanks.  

I am thankful for the opportunities that are pouring into my life right now. 

I celebrated with bopis at Rodic’s.  

And I continued crocheting with this cool turquoise yarn.  

I took a couple of selfies through the power of self-timer.  

I purchased new kicks from local leather sandal brand Renegade Folk. 

Finally, I had Sunnies funfetti and a flat white at a Sunnies Cafe.  

I carried on with my crocheting.  

And I ended my day with some neon selfies at the cafe’s infamous selfie powder room. Hahahahaha  

I am overwhelmed with all the blessings in my life right now. I realized that the best way to celebrate is by continuing my regular routine of prayer, crafting, and selfies. There is empowerment in being able to take one’s own selfies without a man’s help. If I can be my own Instagram husband, then I can surely power through life. 

I can hardly wait! 

Sunday Priorities

On Sundays, I spend time doing the things I love. 

Yesterday was no exception. I worked out, despite the rainy weather. 

I had barako coffee.  

And a delicious bowl of kimchi rice for brekkie.  

I visited Diane.  

And I told her about my upcoming adventures.  

I had a dozen mini-donuts.  

And I visited Barkin Blends Dog Cafe. 

I ended my day with crochet and beef noodle soup.  

Sunday is my favorite day because it is when I can rest and pursue my simple joys. I can’t wait to start work so that I can appreciate Sundays better. Here’s to more Sundays with fitness, food, fiberarts, and dogs! 

AIM Masterclass

I was invited to attend the 4.0: - 4th Industrial Revolution and Development Management Masterclass at the Asian Institute of Management yesterday. 

I learned that yesterday’s solutions are today’s problems in developing countries. An example of which is the sachet economy, which was introduced decades ago to give the poor access to shampoo and other basic needs. However, sachets are non-biodegradable and have become landfill problems in the past years. Now, companies are challenged to come up with solutions to this problem. An example of which is the option for refillable bottles. 

I also learned that emotional intelligence, cognitive flexibility, and creativity are currently the most in-demand skills in business. 

As the 4th Industial Revolution draws near, the challenge is for us to come up with ways to apply these skills in order to be indispensable in the workplace. 

I also crocheted while listening to the lectures.  

The class was concluded with a hearty lunch and dessert.  

I make sure that my blog remains current and true to my interests and values. Blogging has given me a venue to use technology to my advantage. Because of my blog, I get industry exposure through events and seminars. I also get to share my thoughts, and connect to people. Real human connections require creative thinking, and this can never be replaced by machines. I am eager to witness the changes in business and technology, and I can promise you that for every new development, I will continue to speakoutsam!

Singing Along to Life’s Music

Yesterday was all about doing the things that make me happy. 

I started my day with  workout, and a small treat for myself at M&S.  

I also got these cherry earrings from Papemelroti. The best part about them? They’re made by artisans from the Kidney Friends Foundation!

I crocheted while waiting for my truffle penne pasta at Amici.  

And I spent an arfternoon with Ella and the other buddies at Barkin Blends Dog Cafe!

I dropped by legendary textile store VC Trading to purchase yarn.  

And then, I proceeded to the Smart Araneta Coliseum for the Aegis concert! 

I am such a fan because their songs speak to the heart. My favorite Aegis song is Luha.  

I watched it with my high school bff Luti, who joined me for dinner at Cafe Adriatico. 

We both had lengua estofado.  

And we also had Claude’s Dream! 

Finally, it was time for our concert.  

I even purchased their greatest hits album.  

Oh, we had a magical time singing along to all their songs.  

I enjoyed the things that matter to me, and it was great to spend it with my best friend. I hope that I will have more chances to simply be myself and enjoy the things that bring me joy! 

Faith and Crafting

Yesterday, I carried on with my auditing duties. I went to Pasig City Hall, and I stopped by their chapel after completing my tasks.  

It was fun to say hello to images of my patron saints, St. Clare and Padre Pio. 

They also had a beautiful image of St. Joseph.  

I also had to pose with their summery entrance! 

Then, I revived my old planner and jazzed it up with fresh kikki.K inserts, and various sticky notes, stickers, and washi tapes. 

Then, I took my paints out and sketched some food I recently had.  

I stamped the wrong date. It was supposed to be the 12th of July already. Handmade does have its imperfections! 

I was also able to finish this cowl using cotton yarn from Dreams Yarnshoppe and my Furls hook purchased from The Attic Yarn and Craftery. 

And just like my status quo, I ended my productive day on a high note- by beginning again, with fresh yarn in a fresh aqua green shade.  

Scheduling Joy

I dealt with errands yesterday morning, and I must say that I adulted with only good vibes in mind. 

I crocheted again in between my meetings. I am beginning to understand why so many people are hooked on crocheting, pun intended! It is a time warp, and it feels good to hold the yarn in my hands while stitching this scarf.  

Then, I had lunch at Yoshinoya. Their Go Solo meal was a delicious combo consisting of their beef bowl, coffee jelly, and iced tea. 

After accomplishing another round of errands, I went crazy at the stationery section of Landmark Department Store. They have so many cute and affordable stuff for planner girls like me!

They have washi tapes and sticky notes! 

Van Gogh notebooks were available in various prints and sizes.  

Thankfully, I exercised some restraint and just bought three washi tapes and three books of sticky notes.  

Then, I went to The Craft Central.  

I bought more planner essentials: two washi tape holders, one frosted divider, and a ruler divider.  

I am so excited to fill my planner with new schedules! For now, I am buying the basics. 

I am reviving my planner journey with washi tape!

I wrapped-up my day with dinner at Ok Street, the new Korean food court at Vertis North. 

I ordered their kimchi fried rice. It was tasty and filling! I’ll definitely go back.  

I am building my planner because even if I am constantly blogging on the go, I still prefer using pen and paper to organize my life. By buying these bits and pieces, I am giving myself room to customize my agenda. Having a planner lets me enjoy a tangible experience of “fixing” my day. In the next few weeks and months, I will be going through changes which will surely make me learn, improve, and grow. For now, I am planning, hooking, and scheduling things. 

There will always be room for happiness, one day at a time.  

Opportunities Ahead

Yesterday was a busy one. I worked out, then I dressed for success as I had meetings throughout the day. 

For merienda, I had this coffee chip bun and coffee combo at Country Style. It was a delicious pairing, I must say!

The coffee bun was as big as my face!

My meetings went well, so I went to church for thanksgiving mass. 

And I had creamy curry beef rice and bulgogi soup at Bon Chon. 

Also, I enjoyed crocheting this cowl in between my meetings. It is still a work in progress, just like me.

I am eager to welcome opportunities into my life, one day at a time. For now, I am crocheting, enjoying life, and staying positive that the odds will be in my favor. 

Pixie with a Purpose

Yesterday, I worked out at 6am. 

I ate my favorite toasted naked longganisa with brown talangka rice at Breakfast Bin. 

Then, I bought some office essentials from Human Nature. I am especially excited to use my Mori Notes gadget case in a cheery pineapple print. It is designed to smaller gadget essentials like cords and plugs. 

It is sewn by underprivileged artisan moms, allowing them to earn as they work from home.  

I also had coffee... 

...and I finished crocheting this gray cowl for my friend Bernadette, who’s celebrating her birthday this week. 

I also started crocheting a cowl in sky blue and pink hand-dyed yarn.  

I do like investing in quality items, but occasionally purchase trendy things too. I bought the Adeline sling bag from local vegan leather goods store, The Satchel Diva. Their bags are lightweight and on-trend, which are two factors I look for in an everyday handbag. 

Then, I went to the dermatologist... 

...and had my pixie trimmed at the salon next door. 

I offered eggs and prayed for my intercessions at St. Clare.  

And I had a lovely late lunch at Barkin Blends Dog Cafe.  

They have doggo burgers as take-away treats for puppers at home. 

I had their delicious carbonara... 

...and latte! 

And I had the best time with their doggo buddies.  

I couldn’t resist my favorite dog Ella!  

Finally, I ended my day with a 90-minute massage at our neighborhood spa.  

I enjoy self-care and crafting because I feel centered after doing the things I love. I can’t wait to go back to work after unwinding with some fiberarts, dogs, and retail therapy. That’s how I live balanced life, with a little pixie dust for good measure.  

Hooking, Burning, and Yearning

I started my day by crocheting while waiting for my workout to start. 

Then, I satisfied my craving for cheap pares by having it for breakfast.  

I continued hooking while having cofeenut.  

I later rode the BGC bus (which was efficient and comfortable) to Net Park.  

I took a few selfies  (using self-timer!) at the lobby. I was wearing a scarf that I quickly knitted using chunky yarn and 10mm needles from Dreams Yarnshoppe. 

Then, I proceeded to Manila House...

...for the Katutubo Pop-Up Market!  I bought a woodland garland for my mom from Knitting Expedition, one of my favorite social enterprises. Their stuffed animals and home trimmings were handknit in Ifugao. I also joined their Knitting Adventure at Banaue last February!

I caught up with some of my mom’s friends from the fashion industry (she used to be a ramp model).

I also saw Candy Reyes, Knitting Expedition’s girl boss and master knitter! 

I also looked around the fair. Everything was beautiful. I saw this wallpaper in the premises, and I loved it because it was somewhat related to my crocheting and knitting. 

I sat down for a cuppa. 

And I transferred to Fully Booked to enjoy their sale.

I wrapped up my Sunday with a visit to the PAWS Pet Cafe. My favorite shelter dog Ruff was there! If you want to adopt him, please contact PAWS!

I also saw other PAWS dogs in the cafe.  

I ordered my favorite tapa from The Craft Central Cafe. 

I had a productive Sunday! I worked out, crocheted, and supported my favorite advocacies. The way I see it, is that I get to hope and yearn for a brighter future for myself by sharing my blessings with social enterprises and causes I believe in. I am claiming that more blessings will pour into my life in the coming days, weeks, and months! 

Crafting My Love Story

Yesterday, I started my Saturday with a workout...

...pancit and lumpia for breakfast...

 ...and coffeenut (coffee brewed in coconut water and served with coconut milk and coco sugar) and crocheting. 

Then, I bought a new project bag from the weekend bazaar at my local park. The smallest pouch bag for my crochet projects costs only P35. 

I got one in this cheery pineapple print. 

I strolled around the tropical garden inside the park. 

After lunch, I proceeded to the Singles Recollection hosted by The Feast Quezon City community. 

I enjoyed worshipping...

 ...and knitting!

I was impressed with the effort and love that went into the food prep. I mean, look at those handwritten post-its!

I got this one, because it is so me. I believe that each day is a new opportunity!

I discovered my love for crocheting and knitting while I became single a few months ago. I have also been doing creative journaling through food illustration.

My handmade lifestyle has cultivated self-love, and I have never looked back. Crafting my love story starts in affirming and validating myself, one creative output at a time. I know I am ready to love again because I know how to make myself happy in the first place. For now, I am focusing on being myself, and sharing my story to you all. 

Crocheting Inspo

Yesterday, I took my Furls handmade crochet hook for a spin. I was delighted with the lack of drag and its comfortable grip. The wood was warm on my hand, and my yarn just seemed to flow along with each stitch. 

I am definitely a Furls fan and I am glad that I finally bought one of their crochet hooks. Their cult following is definitely telling the truth about these babies.  

I finished this short cowl in a day using my new hook. I hold my Furls with a pen grip, and my hand never felt any strain or discomfort. I am floored! And I can’t wait to crochet again. 

Investing in quality tools will get you far. Read reviews first if you are unsure before investing on notions and materials. I make it a point to choose quality over quantity whether it’s for my knitting needles, crochet hooks, or watercolors. Choose tools that inspire you and craft what’s in your heart. You will definitely be motivated to create more! 

Stitching Time

Yesterday, I had lunch at Bonchon. I wore my crocheted infinity scarf like this as the air conditioning was more chilly than usual. 

I had my go-to order, the creamy curry bibimbowl.  

Then, I did some knitting while having coffee. 

By the time I got home, I received my new stash of yarn. I purchased my new fiberarts tools online from The Attic Yarn and Craftery. 

I appreciate loyalty cards, so I’m all for The Attic’s funATTIC Circle card. 

Also, check out all these freebies!  

I was so happy with my new yarns and Furls hook. 

Yes, I finally bought my first handmade Furls crochet hook!  I got one in 4mm blackwood. It is completely made by hand. I have also tried crocheting with it last night, and its ergonomic design is perfect for pen grip crocheters like myself. The hype is real!

I encourage myself to be creative by continuously investing in quality fiberarts yarns and notions. I am happy with my supplies for now, and they will surely tide me over until I have a regular income again. For now, I am knitting, crocheting, and journaling my life as I know it. 

Paint, Sip, Laugh

Yesterday, I had fun painting at Sip and Gogh. I paid for my own session, and it came with a glass of red wine and a platter of salami and cheese. 

I enjoyed it so much! I chose to paint the Eiffel Tower because Paris is always a good idea. 

I also brought my knitting work-in-progress with me. It was awesome to see my knitting work along with the cafe’s colorful painting selections. 

I will let the photos speak for themselves, as my joy can really be seen in them. I also knitted the beanie which I wore during the session, just because the yarn matches the color of red wine.  

I was so inspired that I also sketched my breakfast and bar chow on my traveler’s notebook.

Indeed, when I spark my creativity, it cascades on to my other crafts like knitting and food illustration. I can see how crafting has made me happier and more resourceful. I look forward to more handmade lifestyle moments, and I hope to witness the positive effects across the other aspects of my life.