Summer Knitting

Yesterday, I knitted while having lunch and coffee at Summer Cafe in Coron. It was a ray of sunshine amidst the gloomy day.  

I ordered the cheesy omelette and americano. It was a delicious combination!

For dessert, I headed to Pedro’s Gelato, a local ice cream joint in Coron. 

I had the ube langka and mango sorbet. It was so good!

Then, I visited the mangrove forest near the Maquinit Hot Springs. 

It was fun to knit, be my foodie self, and explore nature all one day. Hope to have more memories with the things that make me happy.  

Bambiking at Intramuros

Yesterday, I had the chance to explore Intramuros after my meeting in Makati. I had the exciting opportunity to explore the walled city first by foot. 

I planned to visit the walled city for Independence Day, but I decided that one day wasn’t enough to explore it. Day 1 was all about seeing the parts which I previously did not appreciate while I was in a car.  

There were quite a number of interesting nooks and crannies to appreciate and photograph.  

My tour became much better when I rented a bambike (bamboo bike) for one hour. I got to ride through narrow streets and busy sidewalks in Intramuros. 

I got to have some cardio and have a better understanding of the historical markers scattered throughout the walled city. 

My favorite moment was reaching the site of my favorite hero Jose Rizal’s former dormitory. 

My visit ended at Bathala Bar, where I had avocado ice cream and Bayani Brew.  

This was definitely much better than my previous visits to Intramuros as I got to appreciate it more as I was walking and on a bike. I’ll definitely be back!

Sukiyaki Smile

I was invited to a party at a family friend’s residence last night. It was a privilege to eat delicious sukiyaki and twin popsies again. 

I may not be close to the hosts, but I appreciate the yummy food as these simple eats brought back many good memories. Sometimes, all we need are throwback dishes and desserts to inspire is to keep going.  

Stepping Forward

I choose to move forward with my life by appreciating pretty floors whenever I see them. 

I go to mass whenever I can. 

I enjoy delicious food, such as this vegetarian pho from Bawai’s. 

While looking around Papemelroti, I found this Ifugao house figure. I took it as a sign that I will go back to Banaue someday!

I finished my day with some lovely strawberry mango cheesecake frozen yogurt from my usual dessert stand, Elait. They employ deaf employees who are empowered with work and fair wages. 

I move forward from challenges with the things and experiences that make me smile!

NAIA Work Day 3

Yesterday was day three of my four-day stint as a NAIA Buyer Services Representative. 

I started my day with brekkie.  

Then, I worked the empty halls of the airport. 

I crocheted while waiting for VIP passengers.  

I also hung out with airport colleague Jang. 

Then, I transferred to terminal three for lunch and coffee. I had 1st Colonial sili ice cream for dessert and it was delicious! 

I also served as lector during the noontime mass at the airport chapel.  

After work, I offered eggs at St. Clare Monastery.  

I also bonded with the dogs of Barkin’ Blends’ East branch.  

I got a blind massage to cap off my day.  

Here’s to more opportunities to balance work and life with faith, furry friends, and food! 

Spicing Up Life

My life right now revolves around my terminally-ill dad. Whenever I need a break, I walk around the hospital.  

I buy food from nearby establishments, such as Bonchon.  

I knit.  

And I talk to friends, such as Bianca (kinder and grade school classmate) and her boyfriend JP.  

They gave my dad this prayer card from Padre Pio Chapel in Libis.  

I am grateful for friends, food, and yarn that keep me going during this tough time. With a dash of faith and a lot of prayer, I know that I got this.  

Manila Fame 2019

Yesterday, I woke up to a postcard sent by my good friend Nurai. She’s based in Germany, but she posted this from Spain while she was on holiday. 

It was the ideal preview to my artistic day ahead. I rode the LRT 1 and hailed a tuktuk to take me directly to the World Trade Center. 

I went to the Manila Fame to immerse myself in Filipino artistry. My short visit last Friday was too brief, and I really wanted to spend more time at the fair. 

I started my visit with some refreshing liquer de calamansi. 

Then, I had some good coffee.  

I dropped by the Handcrafted by Harl’s booth because I love their advocacy in supporting differently-abled artisans. I bought a handbag from them last year, and it’s still serving me well. 

I joined a leather-crafting workshop for only Php50. I made a leather coin purse with the help of their talented deaf-mute artisans. 

I ended up being the empowered one because I learned a new skill and got to learn from a differently-asked person.  

It was lovely to see fashion influencer Lolaandrogynous at the fair! I totally dig her style. 

I also bought small trinkets from another social enterprise, Kilus.  

I got to appreciate the finer details during this visit.  

I finally got to try 1st Colonial’s sili ice cream and it was delicious!

I had a wonderful evening at Manila Fame and I’m very proud to be Filipino.  

I ended my day with cheese sticks, so I’m also doing the same here. 

Here’s to more opportunities to be proudly Pinoy! 

NAIA Work Day 2

Yesterday was my second one as a NAIA Buyer Services Representative in behalf of CITEM. I got to spend time again at the airport while observing passengers as they go about their day.  

I got to crochet to entertain myself between guests, and during my breaks. 

I also got to have halo halo sundae and coffee for dessert at Jollibee NAIA.  

It was tiring, but fulfilling to finish my second day at work.  

I am enjoying work so far, as I am already adjusting to the daily grind. This will be helpful when I start my day job soon at a company near home. 

I can’t wait to start working soon, and this is the best way to learn how to get along with colleagues and stakeholders. Mabuhay! 

Presidential Car Museum

Yesterday, I spent the day exploring my local park. But first, I began my day with a hearty brunch of gyudon and milk tea coffee (yes, it’s apparently a thing!) at a Japanese restaurant.  

Then, it was time for some culture at Quezon Memorial Circle. It was my first time at the park’s newest museum, the Presidential Car Museum. 

The imposing modern building blended nicely with the park’s existing trees.  

I was in awe of the vintage cars inside the museum.  

As a history buff, this was quite a treat! 

It was also lovely to see stamps inside the museum.  

I enjoyed my time with the presidential cars, and I was pleasantly surprised to see cute souvenirs for sale outside. 

The souvenir shop also carried NHCP publications at reasonable prices.  

For my next stop, I went to Museo ni Quezon to reacquaint myself with the founder of my city.  

I was delighted with my history trip, and it was time to have a snack. 

I chose a coconut ice drop for merienda to beat the heat. 

Coconut House inside Circle sells local products made of natural ingredients.  

Then, it was time to go home, and savor the memories from my day tour of my local park. 

Having fun doesn’t need to be expensive! Sometimes, a trip to the local park can be an educational and enjoyable experience. Hopefully, you also have nearby places where you can enjoy an afternoon of culture and history! 

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. 

1995

Yesterday, I went to UP Cine Adarna to go back to 1995. I was nine years old during that time, so I indulged on a childhood treat: bicho-bicho right outside the film center.  

Then, I watched Sana Maulit Muli starring Lea Salonga and Aga Mulach. 

It was released in 1995. It was a nostalgic trip back to the 90’s. Plus, it was a treat to watch a young Lea Salonga onscreen. 

I had a lovely time, and I proceeded to some self-care at a spa. 

I had early dinner at Breakfast Bin, where I had the delicious veggie skillet. 

For dessert, I had matcha and banana ice cream scoops from Papa Diddi’s. 

By the time I got home, I was inspired to finish knitting this cowl using yarn I bought from Rosario, Pasig. 

It was time to continue knitting, so I chose a ball of Mandala Yarn from The Attic Yarn and Craftery. I carried on from there. 

Sometimes, we need a trip back in time to appreciate the present more. I look forward to enjoying more vintage films in the future to inspire me to cherish my time.  

Brunch Bin

Yesterday, I had the toasted naked longganisa with brown talangka rice for brunch. 

I missed my Maginhawa favorite, and it’s still delicious!

For dessert, I had two scoops of Papa Diddi’s ice cream. I had cheese closed and barako- both flavors complemented each other perfectly. 

I have my usual foodie finds, and I can’t go wrong with them. If you find yourself craving for a hearty breakfast and yummy ice cream in local flavors at Maginhawa, look for the brands above! You won’t be disappointed. 

Working It

Yesterday, I had an early start as I had a meeting to attend. I had a fast food breakfast and some coffee to-go. 

I realized that I was at the namesake building of my venue a few minutes before my appointment. Good thing I walk fast.  

I was able to make it at a reasonable time. My meeting was a success! 

I thanked God by visiting Padre Pio at St. Francis Church.  

Later during the day, I got to walk at UP... 

...and indulge in some dirty ice cream! 

I also bought a bamboo toothbrush from Rags to Riches. 

Finally, it was time for late lunch with my best friend Luti.  

I used my gift certificate from Sunnies Santa . I won a pair of Sunnies Specs from them last Christmas. It was certainly the highlight of my holidays! As a bonus, my gift bag also included a gift certificate at my favorite restaurant. 

I got to knit while waiting for my friend. 

I also had a flat white to perk myself up. 

And I ordered a guacamole and salmon dip with taro chips to start. 

Luti and I had rice bowls for our mains. We had a fabulous meal! Thank you Sunnies Cafe! 

I am working on improving myself and celebrating small wins to motivate myself to keep going! Here’s to a productive year ahead. 

Christmas Treat

I treated our helper to some fried chicken and ice cream the other night. It was our Christmas celebration, and my simple “thank you” for all her years of service to me and my family.  

I also brought her to Barkin’ Blends Dog Cafe to meet my furry friends. 

Helpers are indeed part of the family, and we should all take time to show them how we appreciate them. Don’t forget to thank them and get to know them better! They’re an invaluable part of our lives. 

Cut and Specs

Yesterday, I had my pixie trimmed at the affordable salon near my home. 

I feel renewed whenever I have my monthly haircut. I feel grateful for the support of my loved ones in this difficult time as I am still able to pamper myself within my means. 

I received some Starbucks top-up from my loved ones, so I was able to collect enough stickers for a 2019 planner. My solo coffee sojourns have provided me with clarity amidst the challenges that my family is currently facing. 

I also returned to Elait for some hand-rolled frozen yogurt. Their desserts are delicious, but even better than that is their advocacy, which is hiring deaf servers who whip up these awesome treats. 

I continued enjoying my Monday as I went to Barkin Blends Dog Cafe at SM North Towers to spend time with my favorite doggos. 

This is still my favorite dog cafe because the dogs are treated well. They are walked outdoors and they have enough food, water, and updated shots. Best of all, they are happy and trained to be sociable with human guests- even with kids!

I drove home feeling warm and fuzzy after spending time with the furbabies. So imagine my heightened happiness when I received news that my wish for a new pair of plastic specs has been granted by @dearsunniessanta, the social media gift-giving arm of my favorite eyewear brand, Sunnies Specs. 

I am grateful to everyone who are helping me get through the holidays now that my dad is terminally ill. Self-care is important as it enables me to provide better care to my loved ones. I am definitely loved and I will pass it on this holiday season and beyond! 

Barkin Blends at SM North

Yesterday, I attended the grand opening of Barkin’ Blends Dog Cafe’s second branch at SM North Towers. I had so much fun!

I was greeted by Finn the golden retriever. 

And I was drawn by their display of food for dogs! 

Yes, dogs! You can date your dog here!

Since it was their opening, I was treated to salted egg chicken wings and carbonara which are only available from their Sta. Lucia branch. 

I totally dig their inclusive restroom. 

Here I am with the owners, Ajie and Ate Tina, who have already become my close friends. 

Their doggo treats are reasonably priced. 

They also offer made-to-order doggo cakes!

Finally, here are a couple of pictures with Bern, the main girlboss begins Barkin’ Blends. She’s wearing my Christmas present, a cowl which I have knitted for her. 

I also got to cuddle their resident doggos, like my favorite Ella. 

Here I am with Stark the pomsky...

 ...Booster the Lhasa apso...

 ...and Stitch the Frenchie!

Here’s a sample of their doggo meal, the arroz  dogubana. 

Buchie seems to like it!

For dessert, I dropped by their neighbor, Elait. 

They are known for their deaf crew and frozen yogurt and custard. 

I ordered the strawberry mango cheesecake frozen yogurt and it was delicious!

Props for using local dairy, Elait!

I started knitting a new cowl while having coffee. 

Later that night, I had soup and fishcake from Korean joint Samjin Amook. 

I also had shawarma bratwurst and rice near SM Hypermarket. 

I capped off my day with Bayani Brew...

 ...and a 30-minute chair massage. 

I will definitely go back to all the places I’ve been to yesterday, especially Barkin’ Blends and Elait! See you again soon!

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. 

Weekly Hits

There are things that I simply enjoy doing on a weekly basis. For starters, I HAVE to eat Breakfast Bin’s toasted naked longganisa with brown talangka rice every week.  

I also need some Papa Diddi’s ice cream to make each week more delicious. This cup of joy contains their matcha and barako coffee flavors. 

A brisk walk around the UP academic oval eases me into my tasks. 

And a visit to St. Clare Monastery helps me focus on my life in prayer.  

My life may not be perfect, but my constants keep me grounded on things that matter. What are your weekly constants? I hope that they also give you a sense of purpose each week!

First Day Showing

I watched Exes Baggage starring Carlo Aquino and Angelica Panganiban yesterday. I have been a fan of their love team since I was a teenager, and their reunion movie was just perfect. I laughed, cried, and cheered along with the packed cinema on that beautiful ending. I hope that this won’t be their last movie together because their chemistry onscreen is remarkable. 

I had this peaches and chocolate ice cream crepe from Crazy Crepes. It is one of my go-to dessert places, and it never disappoints. I savored my chilly lunch while processing the movie I watched all by myself. 

Then, I finished crocheting this infinity scarf which I made using two shades of millennial pink. 

Here’s to feeling the burn of the past and celebrating simple joys in the present! I look forward to better beginnings soon. 

Saturday Shopping

I love shopping because it helps clear my mind and it means that I get to buy my needs. I tend to buy Human Nature toiletries at the beginning of each month as it is when my bathroom needs restocking. Also, I still sell Human Nature goodies via my online shop. Please consider buying from my online shop as proceeds go to empowing Gawad Kalinga residents. Thank you in advance!

I also bring a tumbler whenever I visit Human Nature in order to enjoy their free-flowing brewed coffee.  

For brunch, I had my usual toasted naked longganisa from Breakfast Bin. 

And for dessert, I had Papa Diddi’s ice cream in ube and avocado rhum!

I later bought a new pair of platform Crocs, just because I never stopped loving the brand’s shoes. They’re perfect for Zumba. 

Lastly, I visited the Human Nature branch at SM North Edsa to buy some things that weren’t available at the flagship store. 

I had a busy yet therapeutic shopping session yesterday. I always bring a list of things to buy and I stick to my budget. That way, shopping is stress-free and fun. 

I hope that you also enjoy shopping, and I look forward to seeing you on my online shop!