Friendship on Target

Yesterday, I was able to spend time with my high school friends. We held our annual Christmas gathering on Bonifacio Day because it was the only time that most of us were free. 

I got ready by wearing bright red lipstick. 

Our first stop was Arrowland, an archery range inside the mall. Here I am with Kai after she gave me her Christmas gift. 

And here’s all of us before our fun archery time. 

Then, we had snacks at Vampire Penguin, where I had this cheese and hotdog puff. 

I also had a cuppa to go with my waffle. 

We got to exchange gifts while eating merienda. 

We had more food afterwards, such as Cookies by the Bucket...

 ...oyakodon at Japan Fudo Street...

 ...and truffle fries from Potato Corner! Plus, I had an Okinawa milk tea with pearls and pudding from Serenitea. 

We ended the night by visiting Luti’s condo nearby and a group chat with those who weren’t able to physically join us. 

These friends have become my family through the years. I am grateful that we all meet annually, and that we still keep in touch. I hope to have more memories with these girls in the years to come!

Steak Dinner with my BFF

I had a lovely steak dinner with my high school BFF Luti last night. We chose Steak to One because we also wanted to check out the weekend bazaar after our meal. 

We chose well! Our porterhouse steaks were delicious and even the iced tea was refreshingly good.  

For dessert, I had Malagos chocolate ice cream from Papa Diddi’s. 

Sometimes, we just need one friend who believes in us, and yummy comfort food to nourish us during tough times. May you also find that friend in your life, and may you continue to seek food that not only makes you full, but happy as well. 

Self-Care Saturday

Yesterday, I got to swing by the Human Nature flagship store to check out this year’s Christmas boxes. As you know, I am a Human Nature core advocate. You may help me and Gawad Kalinga communities by purchasing fair trade toiletries from my online store.  

Thank you in advance for your support! 

Afterwards, I went to The Maker’s Cafe to clear my head with some knitting. 

This charming cafe, which is right beside my Alma mater Holy Family School, always gets me in a creative vibe. 

I ordered their chicken alfredo, which is pleasantly spicy. It was a delicious crafternoon companion. 

Then, I dropped by the hospital to care for our sick family member. Since the hospital stay will end tomorrow, I brought home this pretty pot of flowers in my Knitting Expedition tiyargo bag. 

I had dinner at Uno Cinquenta, which had a lowkey Christmas vibe. I totally like their minimalist decor. 

I also got my pixie trimmed at a nearby salon beforehand. 

I got a gyudon from the park’s Japanese resto.  

I got my legs waxed...

 ...then I drove home to finish knitting this cowl. I used mocha fusion yarn purchased from The Attic Yarn and Craftery. 

Self-care for me is a practical journey. If I don’t care for myself, then I won’t be able to effectively care for others too. It all begins with me, so I make sure that my needs are met. As you can see, I have simple rituals, and they do keep me grounded. I hope that you have also found your self-care routine, and that they also help you to be the best version of yourself. 

Warmth in my Heart

Last night, I tried dining at the newly-opened cafe near my house. I had chicken arroz caldo and breads for takeaway. I sat down to savor the warm broth of the porridge, and I felt warmth in my heart. The simple recipe of my dinner, and the knowledge that the cafe is a social enterprise, brought happiness to my soul. 

I enjoyed my dinner, and I will definitely be back to have more meals for a cause!