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! 

Happy birthday Ella!

Today is Ella’s fifth birthday! Since it’s Maundy Thursday, and Barkin’ Blends is closed, I visited her a day early to give her warm cuddles. 

I also celebrated with the other dogs, such as Ella’s son Chocnut. 

Five years ago, I was scared of dogs. Everything changed when I met a little black chiweenie named Ella who taught me how to love dogs like her. Here’s to more years with her and her pack! 

Coffee with these dogs is always a good idea.  

Furry Kisses

Self-care remains to be my top priority. Amidst all the challenges that my family and I are currently facing, I find time to take a step back. I take short coffee breaks to see the bigger picture and work on my personal goals. 

One of my go-to rituals is visiting Barkin’ Blends Dog Cafe. I am already a regular in both of their branches. Since I was in Quezon City yesterday, I visited their SM North Towers cafe to have a cuppa with my furry friends.  

Milo the Yorkie was especially clingy to me yesterday. Of course, I also spent time with my favorite doggo, Ella the black chiweenie.  

Hugging dogs and receiving kisses from them can be therapeutic, and this dog cafe reminds me that life can be better as long as I continue to seek for my bliss. 

Fuzzy Sunday

Yesterday, I got to spend time with my tiny doggo friends at Barkin’ Blends Dog Cafe at SM North Towers.  

My favorite girl Ella was there to play and cuddle over coffee.  

After my furry coffee date, I proceeded to Anonas to visit Cinema ‘76.  

I watched Five Feet Apart, a heartbreaking film about two teenagers with Cystic Fibrosis. 

I got to pray at St. Joseph’s Shrine before going home.  

Before I knew it, I was homeward bound. I got to hug some dogs, watch a movie, and pray. I had a lovely Sunday, and I look forward to having a variation of again soon.  

Healing and Hugs

Yesterday, I got to enjoy my day after my transformation of work conference at AIM.

I checked out the Peek-a-Book exhibition at the Ayala Museum for my first stop.  

Here are my favorites: 

Then, I got myself some milk tea from Teaberi. Their cup looks fab with my cozy from The Attic Yarn and Craftery! 

I went for some pampering at a salon.  

I got myself some trendy hairpins! 

I rode the MRT and the LRT.  

Then, it was cuddle time with my furry friends at Barkin’ Blends Dog Cafe Sta. Lucia branch. 

I ended my day with a healing mass officiated by Fr. Fernando Suarez. 

I prayed for my terminally-ill father, as well as for my jobhunting journey.  

It doesn’t take much to make me happy. I just need some art, hugs, and healing from the challenges that each day brings. With faith and positivity, I know that I got this.  

Ella and Vivaldi

Yesterday, I spent time with my beloved doggo buddies at Barkin’ Blends Dog Cafe.  

I was feeling cuddly with my favorite dog Ella.  

I received kisses from Stitch the Frenchie.  

For snack, I had the Chocnut Dinosaur froyo from Elait. This is my new favorite from this celebrated ice cream stand! It is delicious.  

Then, I commuted to the Ayala Museum for a night with the Manila Symphony Junior Orchestra.  

I had coffee and knitted while listening to them play my all-time favorite classical piece: Antonio Vivaldi’s Four Seasons.  

To combat stress and fatigue, I find ways to keep myself happy. Dogs, ice cream, and classical music are just some of my preferred pastimes. Surely, I’ll find another concert to enjoy, and another afternoon with puppies. 

Forever Young

As I face many challenges with my dad being terminally-ill and my jobhunting journey, I felt that I needed a break. I went to Barkin’ Blends Dog Cafe to unwind with their friendly doggos.  

I missed my favorite dog Ella’s kisses! She’s a tiny chiweenie with a big heart.  

With Bonita, a tiny poodle. 

Chocnut and Stitch!

With Stitch. 

With Martha. 

And Happy the Pug!

I had lunch with my family at Conti’s. Their chicken roulade was delicious! 

For dessert, I had the Oreo matcha frozen yogurt from Elait.  

Then, I dropped by the Barbie birthday event at The Block. 

I’m a shameless Barbie fan. I got dolls for me and my goddaughter Kate.  

I could hardly contain my excitement with my new doll. 

My Grab car yesterday was cute! It had Doraemon seatcovers. 

Then, I dressed my new doll in her new Hello Kitty outfit.  

She’s a Made to Move Barbie, and I had fun posing her. 

There’s nothing wrong with playing with toys as an adult. Being forever young helps me manage with life’s stresses with positivity and good vibes.  

Here’s to more happy days ahead!

Barkin’ Hour

I had some time to spare after my conference at ADB the other day, so I went to my happy place- Barkin’ Blends Dog Cafe at SM North Towers!

I was happily greeted by my favorite dog Ella, who enthusiastically gave me kisses.  

My Barkin’ Blends visits were never sponsored. I simply love going there to de-stress and play with their doggos.  

Their tiny poodle, Coco, is also a frequent playmate.  

I can’t wait to go back! The cafe has become my sojourn from the demands of adulthood. I think this is a fabulous place to relax over a glass of lemonade or a cup of coffee. 

‘Til next time, Barkin’ Blends! 

Barkin’ Thursday

Yesterday, I went to Barkin’ Blends Sta. Lucia branch to decompress with the big dogs!

While I am a frequent visitor at their SM North Towers branch, I also missed their bigger breeds. It was worth the trip, as I got to cuddle with almost all of their resident doggos. 

Time spent with the dogs will always be priceless. I can’t wait to play with them again!

Valentine’s 2019

Yesterday, I started Valentine’s Day by knitting while waiting for lunch to be served. My family and I had lunch at Japan Fūdo Street, and we had a lovely time! 

I had my usual order, the oyakodon. It’s delicious and flavorful.  

After lunch, I went to St. Clare Monastery to lift up my intentions and give thanks to the Lord for all the blessings that I continue to receive.  

Then, I continued my Valentine’s Day tradition of visiting Barkin’ Blends Dog Cafe.  

I was welcomed by friendly doggos who don’t seem to mind my presence, even if I’m there almost weekly! 

Of course, I had to cuddle my favorite doggo Ella on heart’s day.  

I was also lucky to receive chocolates from the owners of Barkin’ Blends. Thank you! 

I had a soy honey refresher from Soy Yummy and I was pleased to meet a deaf employee there. I am happy that more businesses are employing special needs staff. They deserve equal opportunities in the workforce.  

I had early dinner at Falafel Yo! I was pleasantly surprised with their pita fries. They’re yummy!

Before going home, I got to listen to some acoustic love songs at the free gig inside the mall.  

I even received a free pastillas rose from the mall management. Thank you! 

I came home to a package from Lazada. My yarn bowl has arrived safely.  

It’s nicer in person, and it fits all my yarns!

I am happy with my Valentine’s Day celebration this year. I got to knit, pray, spend time with doggos, eat out, and gift myself with more crafting. Life is good, and I am so blessed. 

Purposeful Saturday

Yesterday, I attended a meeting for a brand that I have been supporting for many years now. It was fun to interact with other ladies who also advocate for the brand. I can’t wait to see how our ideas can translate to better marketing strategies for this brand, and I certainly look forward to more collaborations with this brand in the future on an advocate basis. 

The meeting surprised me, because I realized that I have so many ideas to contribute and share. I am truly passionate about this brand because it gives back to communities that need work. It empowers people through dignified wages. And as both a core advocate and an end user, I am happy to help them improve by sharing my expertise. 

After my fruitful meeting, I went to Barkin’ Blends to spend time with their friendly resident doggos. 

It warms my heart that my favorite doggo, Ella, is always this excited to welcome me to the cafe. 

Spending time with her and the other doggos is priceless, and the comfort they bring is second to none. 

For dinner, I had Tapa King, which is a favorite from my childhood.  

I also had a cookies and cream frappe from Farron Cafe. It was delicious!

And before going home, I watched The Girl in the Orange Dress at Cinema Centenario. It always feels like home for me in this microcinema. I have a favorite seat there (G5!), and it’s the best way to end a productive day. 

I’ll always support brands that promote goodness and purposeful living in my own way. And in the course of my journey, I’ll find ways to unwind by spending time with dogs and supporting local films. Here’s to more purposeful Saturdays!

Chinese New Year 2019

Yesterday, I started Chinese New Year with a visit to the Pink Sisters. 

Then, I played with my furry friends at Barkin’ Blends Dog Cafe!

I also got some souvenirs from Thailand from Ate Tina, one of the owners of Barkin’ Blends who has since become one of my good friends. 

I treated myself to a matcha soy refresher. 

For late lunch, I had a Falafel Yo! with no chili. 

I had a simple Chinese New Year celebration which I began with prayer. I hope that this year will be my best one yet!

SWS Survey Review 2019

Yesterday, I started my day with a P2P ride to Makati.  

I bought puto from the vendor at the bus station, and it was very good!

I went to AIM for the 2019 SWS Survey Review and it was insightful. 

Then, I proceeded to Barkin’ Blends Dog Cafe to play with my doggo buddies. 

I ended my day with some kimchi rice at the weekend bazaar near my parking space.  

I had a productive Friday which was a balance of learning, cuddling, and eating! Hopefully, I’ll receive more invitations to learning opportunities and seminars. 

Risk Management Masterclass Day 3

Yesterday was the third and last day of the Disaster Risk and Crisis Management Masterclass. 

I learned that rather than have survival hacks, we must implement systems in order to reduce or contain risks during disasters. 

After class, I went straight to Barkin’ Blends Dog Cafe for some cuddle time with Ella and the other resident doggos.  

And for dinner, I had binatog! 

Life is all about the systems we put in place, and the places we go to in order to live to the fullest. Let’s maximize our resources and opportunities in order to create possibilities not just for ourselves, but for others as well. 

Dogs and Food

The other day, I was determined to have a great day before my dad entered the hospital again (he is terminally-ill).  

I started my Thursday with a burger from this kiosk at the mall. It was delicious!  

Then, I got this postcard from Papemelroti. I sent it via snail mail to a customer at my online shop (please buy Human Nature products from me!) 

I spent my afternoon cuddling my favorite doggos at Barkin’ Blends Dog Cafe. 

Ella (the dog that captured my heart years ago) is an expert at cheering me up! 

Apparently, Ella and my new buddy Stitch are friends.  

Ella’s son Chocnut also offered his warm furry body for me to cuddle.  

It was also my first time to hug Raven the corgi.  

Yes, it was difficult to leave.  

I bought socks to remind me of my doggo friends wherever I go.  

Then, I got a honey soy refresher from Soy Yummy! It was really yummy! 

And for snack, I for Nacho King. I was brought back to my grade school days. 

And for late dinner, I drove to Army Navy (thank God it’s 24 hours!) for some adobo flakes. So good!  

It’s up to us to find ways to keep going amidst trials. We just have to find the perfect formula that works. For me, it’s doggo + food. I hope you’ll also find yours! 

Sunday Paws

Yesterday, I crocheted while waiting for my lunch at Barkin’ Blends Dog Cafe. I had the Bonnie Burger and a wintermelon milk tea. I missed this combo so much because food and milk tea are only available at the Sta. Lucia branch (I frequent the SM North Towers branch more because it’s closer to my house).  

I also missed the bigger doggos who are mainstays at Sta. Lucia. 

I also met Shadow, a rescued black Labrador who was abandoned at the vet. She was left behind after her original owners broke up. Now, she has a happy disposition at her new home.  

Another rescued dog is Potchi the pug, who has only one eye.  

All of their dogs are still so sweet and caring.  

I had some tokneneng (deep fried quail eggs) for snack...

...and some calamansi juice to perk me up.  

I ended my day with Sunday mass at St. Clare Monastery.  

Before driving home, I enjoyed a large cup of sour cheese fries from Potato Corner.  

Life is too short. We should make time to be with beings that cheer us up, for worship, and for cheat meals. Treat yourself within your means on weekends, and watch yourself take on the world during the workweek. 

Staying Real

Yesterday, I drove to a meeting near my house. 

But before the meeting, I managed squeeze in brekkie in the form of a coffee kick smoothie from Go! Salads. It was filling and delicious!

Then, I got a leather coin purse for my MP3 player and earbuds. I also got a couple of postcards which will be mailed to clients of my online shop (please buy Human Nature products from me). 

I dropped by the post office after my meeting to mail my postcards. These floral stamps are lovely!

I grabbed lunch from Falafel Yo!  

This Jesus diet thing is really uplifting. Instead of eating greasy food all the time, I am eating more vegetables and healthful meals.  

I also watched a movie starring Elisse Joson and McCoy De Leon. Sakaling Maging Tayo is set in Baguio, with some scenes shot in Teacher’s Camp, which holds a special place in my heart. I won a national award in extemporaneous speaking at CMLI (which was held in Teacher’s Camp) back in 2003. 

The movie was funny and entertaining. I highly recommend it.  

I had coffee at Barkin’ Blends Dog Cafe...

...where I bumped into my preschool classmate Veronica...

 ...and high school classmate Maja!

I later bonded with the dogs. 

I had truffle fries from Potato Corner for snack.  

And an Okinawa milk tea from Happy Cup to perk me up. 

Before the day ended, I had pesto pasta from Juju Eats for dinner. 

I like dogs, healthy food, simple local finds, and coffee! I hope that you will also find the things that make you smile. 

Keeping Up with 2019

Yesterday, I had another meeting. I think it turned out fine! 

After my productive morning, I had my pixie trimmed. Haircuts really have an amazing effect on my confidence, that’s why I get one each month. 

I had the Sgt. Steak salad and garlic hummus for lunch. 

Then, I visited Barkin’ Blends Dog Cafe for some cuddle time with Ella and my other furry friends.  

I ended my day with a breakfast smoothie from Go! Salads. I like this place so much, I had my lunch and dinner there.

2019 is turning out to be a fruitful year for me. I am eager to keep up with this year’s challenges by looking for the right opportunities to pursue, and balancing them with my passions. 

Bring it on!

Journey to Faith

Yesterday, I rode a couple of trains to... 

...St. Clare Monastery! I gave thanks and prayed for my personal intentions.  

I had a hearty and healthful lunch. The Wild Wild West salad from Go! Salads was so delicious. The ranch dressing definitely brought a unique punch to my midday.  

I continued to do some work on my phone while cuddling with the dogs of Barkin’ Blends Dog Cafe. I was welcomed by my favorite dog, Ella the chiweenie. 

Stark the pomsky was camera-shy. 

I also bonded with Ella’s son Chocnut and Happy the pug.  

It was hard to say goodbye even if I’m a frequent guest at the cafe.  

Before going to bed, I transferred these two scents into travel perfume bottles from Beabi. I was proud of myself for finding a way to transfer the DKNY perfume to the smaller bottle as it was difficult to open. Thank God for online forums, and I was able to research how to open the bottle.  

Both scents were Christmas gifts to me.  

I restore my faith by continuously praying, communing with nature (in the form of furry dogs), and surprising myself with a new skill (even if it’s as simple as transferring perfume). Life is a journey, but it can be easier with some faith and belief in oneself. 

Doing Good with Doggos

Yesterday, I had the Sgt. Steak salad again at Go! Salads. I am addicted to their chimichurri dressing. I simply can’t get enough of it.  

After my hearty meal, I proceeded to Human Nature to purchase my personal necessities and get orders for my customers. 

You too can support me and my family by making a purchase at my Human Nature online store! To all those who have already purchased, thank you for your support! Please continue patronizing my small business, and I hope that you will spread the word about my shop. 

To cheer myself up after spending time with at the hospital with my terminally-I’ll father, I visited Barkin’ Blends Dog Cafe to hug my furry friends. 

I’m wearing a fabric mask because I can’t afford to catch airborne sicknesses! My dad has very weak immunity, so I need to be in tip-top shape.  

I went back to Go! Salads to try another selection from their menu. This time, I had the Bayani Salad, which is known for its adobo flakes. I liked it, but I think I’m more of a Sgt. Steak girl. 

Before going to bed, I depotted my Sunnies Face Fluffmatte lipstick in Hot Sauce. While the lipstick brand is known to break easily, it’s color payoff and opacity are out of this world. I had to salvage what’s left of my tube by transferring it in a 3ml jar, microwaving it for two minutes to set it in the container, and letting it cool on room temperature. 

I have chosen local products and produce today. Human Nature is a social enterprise, so each purchase benefits a poor community that the company supports. Go! Salads supports farmers and ensures that their produce is pesticide-free. Barkin’ Blends welcomes people of all ages, genders, and statuses in life. And Sunnies Face is part of the Sunnies Group, which is known to have charitable donations, such as their Christmas giveaway Dear Sunnies Santa. 

By taking care of myself and supporting brands that do good, I know that I am doing the right thing with my limited resources. I hope that you will also find some brands that support others, and that you will continue paying for goodness to continue growing.