Easter Sunday 2018

I celebrated Easter Sunday by getting fit and eating out!

My morning was spent brisk walking at UP.  

IMG_5650.JPG

I missed soundtripping while walking. Also, the weather was really nice.  

IMG_5655.JPG

My breakfast consisted of shredded cheese corn...

IMG_5656.JPG

 ...and a dirty ice cream sandwich!

IMG_5657.JPG

I knitted before mass.  

FullSizeRender.jpg

Then, we had lunch after church. We chose Torch as we were craving for meats, pizza, and maki. 

IMG_5691.JPG

This was the volcano roll. It was a deliciously spicy dish. 

IMG_5693.JPG

This Philly cheesesteak pizza was a crowd pleaser. It was satisfying and flavorful. 

IMG_5694.JPG

The steak, fish and chips, and chicken yakitori were all yummy as well! 

My Easter with family was well-spent. I hope that next year, it will also be fabulous! 

Black Saturday 2018

I began my Black Saturday with a workout and a hearty breakfast. 

IMG_5621.JPG
IMG_2974.JPG

I posed by the townhouses near our hotel which resemble the San Francisco houses in Lola and the Boy Next Door.  

IMG_5628.JPG

On our way home, we passed by the Calamba Rizal Shrine. I am a Rizal fan, so this felt like a homecoming. 

FullSizeRender.jpg

The Php1 coin I was holding was a tribute to my idol, as he is featured on the currency. 

FullSizeRender.jpg
FullSizeRender.jpg
FullSizeRender.jpg

Rizal had a dog!

FullSizeRender.jpg
FullSizeRender.jpg

We also dropped by the church where Rizal was baptized. 

IMG_5641.JPG

It was located right next to his house. 

FullSizeRender.jpg
FullSizeRender.jpg

That was a fun visit!

FullSizeRender.jpg

My family and I had late lunch at Mom and Tina’s. Their Shepherd’s Pie is still so good after all these years!

FullSizeRender.jpg

I enjoyed reconnecting with my idol and eating delicious food. What a way to celebrate the Holy Week break. I look forward to more memorable moments in sentimental places. 

Good Friday 2018

Yesterday, I got to unwind in Batangas with my family. I started my day with my usual workout. 

image.jpg

After which, I had breakfast at our hotel’s cafe.  

IMG_5603.JPG

The egg white omelette and cinnamon rolls were my favorites! 

IMG_5604.JPG

I had local coffee of course. Then, I cleaned up and went to Montemaria for some Holy Week reflection. 

I knitted on the way there.  

FullSizeRender.jpg

Finally, I saw Our Lady. She was breathtaking.  

FullSizeRender.jpg
FullSizeRender.jpg

We visited other churches as well during our fime here, and had dinner at the hotel. 

This Asian Spicy Fusilli was divine.  

FullSizeRender.jpg

So was this blueberry cheesecake! 

FullSizeRender.jpg

I worked out before bedtime, just because. 

IMG_5615.JPG

My view while doing cardio wasn’t too shabby!

IMG_5616.JPG

I had a productive day combining prayer, balanced eating, and working out. It was a nice vacation in the country. I look forward to more meaningful breaks on special occasions. 

Revisiting Padre Pio Shrine

Yesterday, I got to visit the Padre Pio Shrine For the second time. This time, I was with my family. 

I started my day with a breakfast takoyaki rice bowl. It was surprisingly delicious! 

IMG_5563.JPG
IMG_5564.JPG

I knitted in the car.  

IMG_5566.JPG
IMG_5571.JPG

And before I knew it, we were already there at the shrine. I purchased a magnet for my collection and a bottle of pain relief oil for a friend. 

IMG_5572.JPG

We walked along the Shrine and prayed at the various spots in the compound. My favorite spot there was at the main church, where this huge sign serves as a reminder for everyone. 

IMG_5573.JPG

The place holds a special spot in my heart because Padre Pio is a powerful intercessor. His life is also a shining example of the transforming ability of faith. 

FullSizeRender.jpg

Indeed, I will pray, hope, and remind myself to don’t worry!

FullSizeRender.jpg

I also bought personalized keychains from this fun stall. 

FullSizeRender.jpg

I feel blessed to have revisited the Shrine and I am thankful that this time, I am stronger in faith. I will keep on going, because I am confident that Padre Pio will always pray for my intentions.