Ramen at Home

Yesterday, my mom and I had delicious Yummy Tokyo ramen for dinner. They were kind enough to send me Make-at-Home ramen kits to enjoy while on quarantine. My mom cooked them- I chose miso for her, and curry ramen for me. Both were delicious!

Yummy Tokyo has invited me to the opening of their Ortigas branch right before the community quarantine was enforced. It was my last blogger event before the lockdown. I am grateful for their generosity, and for remembering me during this pandemic. I really appreciate the ramen kits as it gave me a foodie advenuture at the comfort of my own home.

If you want your own Make-at-Home ramen kits, please order from Yummy Tokyo today! They are delicious and truly worth your money.

Stay safe and healthy at home, friends!

Yummy Tokyo Ortigas

Last March 15, I attended the private opening of Yummy Tokyo’s newest branch at Rockwell Business Center Sheridan. I am a frequent diner at their Maginhawa branch, so this was such a treat. It was also noteworthy as this was my last event before Metro Manila was put on enhanced community quarantine in light of the corona virus.

The owner, Grace Catelo, personally welcomed us and shared with us her journey in building the brand. She is optimistic that Yummy Tokyo will reach more food lovers in the Ortigas business district, and that they will appreciate their food and friendly price points.

I ordered my usual tonkotsu ramen, which I paired with gyoza. So delicious!

I am thankful that their PR consultant, Mary, invited me to their opening. I am a foodie at heart, so a party with Japanese eats is definitely something I would go to before the city closes down.

Do check them out when they open on March 23rd! You won’t be disappointed.

Curry Udon Satisfaction

I went back to Marugame Udon after my first visit last week. This time, I ordered the curry udon with tamago ten.

It was delightful to watch my udon being prepared for me.

The author watches her udon being prepared for her

This is not a sponsored post. I am just really happy with the dining experience at Marugame Udon. I enjoy how they prepare the meals in front of their customers, and how orderly everything is.

The rich curry broth is poured into the udon

My curry udon with tamago ten was delicious! Of course, I had beer to go with it, and it made the meal more special.

The author enjoys her curry udon and tamago ten with beer

The tamago ten goes well with the curry udon

I will definitely be back for more curry udon!

Ash Fall

Last Sunday night, the whole metro was stunned by the ash fall caused by the Taal Volcano Eruption. It was a humbling reminder that Mother Nature is indeed powerful.

Instead of dwelling on the negative effects of this natural calamity, I have chosen to use the holiday (work and classes have been suspended in most institutions in Manila and nearby provinces) to run some errands. Life must go on, and I have to ensure that my family is alright.

The author rides a tricycle in a face mask a day after the Taal Volcano eruption

As it was only a day after ash fell on Metro Manila, I wore a face mask and glasses as I ventured out for some urgent tasks. The air was dusty and ash was everywhere, but I managed to overcome my allergies.

I rewarded myself with a gyudon lunch at Hachiboru after a productive morning.

The author’s delicious gyudon lunch at Hachiboru

After running more errands, I bought some Chinese dinner for takeaway at El Presidente of Binondo. I got myself a lemon chicken bento, while I got my mom a sweet and sour pork bento.

The sumptuous choices at El Presidente of Binondo attracts hungry diners

After ticking all the items off my to-do list, I went home and relaxed. I took out my crochet project and watched Kim Enson’s vlogs.

The author crochets while watching her favorite vlogger, Kim Enson

A catastrophic day does not mean that my world should stop. I still push myself to be productive, and I do so by balancing my tasks with some of my favorite interests, which include food and crochet.

Life is too short. Make each moment, whether it is good or bad, count!

Marugame Udon

It was my first time to eat at Marugame Udon last Thursday. I was with my best friend Jay for a quick catch up lunch. We ate at the UP Town Center branch because it was conveniently located next to our favorite bookstore, Fully Booked.

The self-service concept was a sensory experience! There were tasty choices for sides to go along with your udon.

Freshly-made udon welcomes diners

Different kinds of Japanese side dishes such as omurice are lined up for the picking

Spam musubi happens to be the author’s favorite

I chose the curry udon, and it did not disappoint. It tasted similarly to the curry udon I enjoyed at Harajuku a few years ago.

Excellent curry udon

Of course, I had beer with it. It was a delicious meal, and I highly recommend it!

Sunday Recoupment

This week has been pretty intense. I survived a traumatic job interview with a company who misleads their applicants. I was lucky that I trusted my instincts and left. 

I also got into a violent incident in the train, which didn’t stop me from attending a seminar at AIM.  

These incidents made me feel tired, so I ordered Japanese food to keep my spirits up. I had the omu curry rice at Kimono Ken, which is a restaurant that I’ve been frequenting since my uni days. I had a delicious lunch and I will definitely be back!

I capped off my lunch with my usual Assam milk tea at Serenitea. 

It’s easy to bounce back from setbacks as long as I learn from them in order to prevent them from happening again. In this case, I learned to research thoroughly on the companies I apply for, continue to trust my instincts, and maintain my composure whenever I am attacked in public. I believe I was able to do so as I was offered a seat on the train by a kind gentleman. 

Here’s to more lessons, foodie adventures, and milk tea! 

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! 

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. 

Infinite Fan

Yesterday, I finished crocheting this möbius shawl using chunky yarns from my favorite yarn store, The Attic Yarn and Craftery. I am excited to use this in my future job, and also during possible travels! It’s warm and cozy. 

All that crocheting made me hungry, so I ordered the Chicken Chizu Curry from Tori Chizu. 

It was a delicious baked rice meal which combined cheese and curry! I’ll definitely order from this place again. 

Then, it was time for me to book a ride to the National Shrine of Our Lady of Lourdes. 

The church is notorious for road closures during fiesta, so I opted to book a ride for a worry-free journey. 

Before the fiesta procession, I fueled up first with some food. 

I bought myself a Jolly hotdog and a choco float from Jollibee. Still so good!

I also prayed for my intentions, such as my dream to land a job very soon, and healing for my dad. 

Before I knew it, it was time for the procession!

It was a spectacular procession, just like the one last year. I am a Lourdes devotee because of the miracles I have received from Our Lady. I continue to pray for good health for myself so that I can still be a blessing to others. I also prayed hard for a job that will enable me to support myself and my family. 

Life is still a beautiful journey, and my faith keeps me going. For now, I will continue crafting, eating yummy food, and praying for more blessings! 

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!

Faith, Food, and Film

Yesterday I had beer and okonomiyaki with an old friend. 

It was delicious, and it was nice to catch-up with old friends, as always.  

I walked around UP to burn my lunch.  

I went to St. Clare to pray for some challenges I am currently undertaking, and for the strength to endure them all. 

Then, I had strong coffee while knitting.  

My last stop for the night was UP Cine Adarna to watch Through Night and Day starring one of my favorite actresses, Alessandra De Rossi.  

I had junk food and coffee while waiting. 

And like most Alessandra De Rossi films, it was a showstopper. I enjoyed it, even if it broke my heart.  

Looking forward to more food trips, prayer breaks, and film nights in the future! 

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. 

Self-Care and Sukiyakidon

Yesterday, I had my monthly pixie trim at a salon at Maginhawa. I’ve been experimenting with different salons every month, and I’m glad that I found a salon that’s perfect for my hairstyle and budget at every major location I frequent. I’m happy I found a salon at Maginhawa that can do a mean pixie because I’m always there for lunch or dinner. 

Speaking of lunch, I ate at Happon for the vibe and the delicious Japanese food.  

I ordered their sukiyakidon, and it was the perfect self-care meal. It was delicious! 

I hope that you can also find a place that you can go to whenever you need a dose of self-care. It pays to know that you can rely on some places that can uplift your mood and comfort your soul. Your happiness should not be someone else’s job, it’s yours. So make yourself happy, and always schedule in some self-care.