Katre X Hello Kitty

I attended the recent launch of local leather design house Katre’s collaboration with Hello Kitty. It was a marriage between chic and cute as the two brands worked together to produce grown-up versions of bags for Hello Kitty fans.

I myself had a red Hello Kitty shoulder bag when I was three years old. Now that I’m 33, I bought myself a stylish and updated version of my childhood bag. I am glad that I did, because it was a joy to use. The camera bag fits all my basic essentials, and the shoulder strap did not hurt my back.

The collection will be out online on March 1. Do check it out, as you will surely be reminded of your happiest childhood memories!

Grief, So Far

Dealing with grief is not easy. I lost my dad to cancer last May. The only way I coped was to be grateful for each day. I took it one day at a time, and gave myself a chance to begin again every morning. Here’s how I’ve done it so far:

1. I celebrated being a fan, from crocheting Star Wars amigurumi to buying a Hello Kitty Beep card and Happy Meal.

2. I made sure that my Human Nature online store was up and running. I also regularly attended company events and launches.

3. I worked freelance, and wrote reports like my life depended on them.

4. I became a full-on foodie and just ate the best meals to satisfy my cravings.

5. I continued to blog here daily, even when I felt that there was nothing worth talking about.
   

If you are going through a tough time, I suggest that you take something out of my playbook and just keep going. There is always something to celebrate in the ordinary. You just have to try.

Toast to Life

Yesterday, I was joined by my mom and maternal relatives for a day of unwinding. We visited the church where my parents were married.  

Then, we had lunch at Livestock for some delicious comfort food.  

We transferred to Hello Kitty Cafe for dessert and coffee.  

I also managed to crochet throughout the day.  

It is possible to go on living with family at my side.  Despite the pain of losing a loved one, I can carry on with life, one day at a time.   

Strong Friendships

I received a care package from my college friend Alexis the other day. It contained goodies from her recent trip to Japan. I squealed in delight when I opened the bag, because they contained stuff in my favorite color palette! 

I am thankful to have few but genuine friends in my life. We may not have much at the moment as we are prioritizing the medication for my dad’s terminal illness, but I have priceless friendships that keep me going. 

Colourfully Hooked

I finally finished the colorful cowl I was crocheting in shell stitch! It was fun to work with this variegated yarn I got from VC Trading. Of course, I couldn’t resist crocheting with my handmade plushies, Tubbs and Ella!

I worked through this cowl during my birthday, as I was resigning from my previous job, and as I was transitioning back to freelance life. It was quite a journey. 

I look forward to giving this as a present to someone who’s celebrating her birthday soon. 

It is also noteworthy that I now crochet with ease as I have recenly had glasses made for my astigmatism. I hope that the condition will be corrected by next year. In the meantime, I will crochet, knit, and blog as I wear my stylish specs- and live a purposeful life!