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!

Heart for Healing

The locket that I ordered from Pulseras by Kim’s fundraising sale has finally reached my hands! My heart-shaped locket is made of stainless steel and gold-filled chain, which are premium materials that can withstand the test of time. As always, Kim has packed my purchase with love, and a note was even included to thank me for my support.

The locket came with a photo-printing service. I sent Kim a picture of me with Piolo, the cuddly lab who always hangs out with me at Barkin’ Blends Dog Cafe. This will serve as a reminder that this quarantine situation is only temporary, and that I will see Piolo again when the time comes.

I am so glad that I supported this fundraiser to help fight Covid-19. I am praying that a cure and a vaccine will be developed very soon. For now, let us all stay at home and do our share to support our brave frontliners!

Blue for A Cause

I got to support another fundraising effort for those in need during the pandemic. I ordered this lotus ring from handmade jewelry instructor and artist Thingamabobs Art Jewelry. I chose blue chalcedony as its center stone, and it will be set in brass. Because of its bespoke nature, it will be made after the lifting of the enhanced community quarantine. I really do not mind this, because I have a weakness for handmade anything.

This was part of Soulflower, Co.’s Lingap Fund Sale, wherein proceeds will be donated to Lingap Pangkabataan. The NGO is in need of funding during the pandemic. It is still ongoing, so do check out this fundraising endeavor. You will be able to get first dibs on the best local handmade leather craft and jewelry, and help a nonprofit rise above the pandemic.

I hope that you will also support our frontliners and those in need while we are all under quarantine. Being separated does not mean that we are not united in helping others. Together, we can make a bigger impact. Someday, all our efforts will pay off and we will be able to rise again.

Let us help others while we wait for a cure or a vaccine for Covid-19!

QC Hits

Yesterday, I spent my day running errands and buying stuff at Quezon City, my hometown! I started with Human Nature Cubao, the newest branch of the brand I support. I fulfilled some offline orders here to show the branch some love.

If ever you need hand sanitizers and other natural personal care products, you may also buy from my Human Nature online store. Not only will you support me, you will also be helping communities who work with the brand to provide natural ingredients and raw materials. Thank you!

Then, I had early dinner at Kanto Pares. I love pares! This Pinoy beef delicacy is my go-to comfort food whenever I want a quick and filling meal. I order extra egg and drizzle mine with soy sauce, calamansi, and chili. Sarap!

I also got to walk through Teacher’s Village and found some beautiful blooms such as this one.

My last stop was Pulseras By Kim, a well-loved studio that is known for gold-filled and gold-plated non-tarnish minimalist jewelry. I got some bow huggers for myself and new earrings for my cousin from Canada.

This shop is full of heart and the owner, Kim, has already become a friend. If you are also into everyday pieces that won’t break the bank, I suggest that you check them out! They are located right beside Holy Family School at Maginhawa.

It doesn’t take much to make me happy. A quick stroll through a familiar street, some local brands, and comfort food are all I need to have a fun day.

Here’s to more good days and happy memories!

Noodles and Milk Tea

Yesterday, I went on a food trip at Quezon City. Here’s what I had for lunch:

Sen Lek Mixed Thai Noodles (The Caf, U.P. Town Center)

This comforting noodle soup has a tasty broth. The noodles were chewy and delicious, while the beef and fish balls were all yummy. It was a filling lunch treat that I will surely enjoy again.

For dessert, I had Taste from the Greens Choco Malt Milk Tea with Cream Puff (Maginhawa). This was simply heaven in a cup. The cream puff was like pudding, but had a consistently that resembled ice cream. Meanwhile, the choco malt milk tea was perfect. It reminded me of childhood.

I hope to find more foodie finds this 2020!

Cafe Quezon

Last Sunday, I started my 21 Coffees with Sam project. The plan is to have coffee by myself for 21 days in order to enjoy my own company. Don’t get me wrong, as I’m an only child so I’m used to being alone. But this time, I want to celebrate being by myself with coffee and the occasional dessert.

Last night was day 3, and I chose to have mango cheesecake and brewed coffee at Cafe Quezon. The combo was a comforting hug in dessert and caffeine form. I loved it, and I was charmed by the homey interiors. I will surely be back!

Do check out this cafe next time you find yourself in Maginhawa.

Conch Chapter

Yesterday, I had my conch pierced at 55 Tinta. I must say that the cleanliness and classy interiors of the tattoo parlor impressed me. I actually enjoyed my piercing session done by Elaine de la Rama. She has a really light hand and is thorough with aftercare.
Every piercing is a new beginning for me. This conch piercing symbolizes my continuous journey onward. It is also a reminder for me to listen more than speak, and that there is healing after every pain.
I highly recommend 55 Tinta for all your piercing needs!

Health First

Yesterday, I ate at SGD Coffee with my mom. I had the Sagada Omelette and SGD black, while my mom had chicken tocino. For dessert, I had a lemon square.
I am currently struggling with jobhunting, and I don’t have a lot of people to count on. Good thing my mom was free and she was able to treat me to a healthy lunch. Putting my health first amidst the demands of jobhunting and working freelance is my current priority, and that involves the food that I eat.
I’d say that I am currently winning on this aspect!

Grip on Grit

Yesterday, I had breakfast at SGD Coffee in the Maginhawa area. I was reminded of the grit that is inherent in me, as I saw the bracelet on my stack. 

The cafe was a lovely tribute to the mountains in the middle of the summery city. 

I had my usual SGD black as I crocheted. 

I also got myself an oatmeal cookie. It was to die for. 

If you need strong coffee, and chunky oatmeal cookie, and a quiet space for working and reflecting, SGD is your best bet. Not an ad, I am simply a fan of the place. Do check it out soon!

NKTI Lenten Pilgrimage 2019

I joined the NKTI (National Kidney and Transplant Institute) Lenten Pilgrimage last April 13, 2019 to three churches in Pampanga. I was lucky to have a free day to explore these churches and spiritually nourish myself in time for Holy Week. 

I started my day with some crochet in the tour bus.  

Our first stop was the Lahar Church dedicated to Our Lady of Lourdes at Cabetican, Bacolor, Pampanga. The church was submerged in lahar during the eruption of Mt. Pinatubo in the early 90’s. 

I got to eat street food like scramble and buko sherbet before our mass and recollection. 

Our second stop was St. James the Apostle Church at Betis, Guagua, Pampanga. 

We were able to stopover for food and drinks at Guagua’s town plaza. I was to find a Rizal monument there!

Our last stop was the St. Augustine Parish, an adobe church with historical significance at Lubao, Pampanga. 

Before going home, I had my usual toasted naked longganisa at Breakfast Bin.  

I am grateful for the opportunity to pray, tour, and worship with the men and women of NKTI at Pampanga. I am inspired to remain steadfast in faith as I carry on with life, and it is my hope that I can share this faith with others through this blog, and social media. 

May you have a blessed Holy Week ahead! 

UP Therapy

Yesterday, I had early dinner with my best friend Luti. I was feeling the stress from my violent incident at the MRT, so I was glad that she was able to make time for me. 

But first, I had binatog   (boiled white corn with desiccated coconut and cheese) from a street vendor. It was the best appetizer!

Luti and I chose Steakfix at Maginhawa, where we both got the Hawaiian chicken steak. 

I got the chicken plate with two sidings: mucha rice and cheesy mushroom omelette. It was delicious!

For our nightcap, we had milk tea at Nomu. I got the jasmine green tea with pearls, and it was so good!

We all need friends, food, and milk tea after a long day. Thank God I have my best friend and the best food trip options close to home!

Fueling Women

Yesterday, I started my day with some toasted longganisa and hot chocolate at Breakfast Bin.  

Then, I checked out some exhibitions at the Ayala Museum. 

I especially liked their Women and War exhibit. 

After running some errands, I got myself some pares and siomai from Kanto Pares. Yum! 

As a woman, I prioritize self-care because the most important person in my story is me. Seeing empowering exhibits and eating yummy food are just two ways to fuel myself. Happy International Women’s Day! 

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.  

Sunday Chill

Yesterday, I heard Sunday mass with my family. 

I knitted while waiting for mass to begin.  

Then, we had lunch at Pho Hoa, and I was pleasantly surprised with their pretty floor. 

Then, I watched Alone/Together starring Liza Soberano and Enrique Gil. As someone who hangs out and jogs at UP Diliman, I appreciated the beauty of the campus on the big screen. They even ate the street food that I love on the movie! Also, they featured the National Museum and Vargas Museum, two museums that are close to my heart. I will definitely visit those two again. And I really enjoyed watching this movie because I recalled how idealistic I was then, and that it’s never too late to pursue my dreams. I’m still young after all. 

For dinner, I had the toasted naked longganisa with brown talangka rice from Breakfast Bin. 

I also had ice cream from Papa Diddi’s. I had the mango cheesecake and barako coffee scoops. They were both delicious and even complemented each other. 

Sundays are best spent with both my family and by myself. I was able to knit, eat, and watch a movie. Definitely a Sunday peg for weeks to come. 

Purposeful Saturday

Yesterday, I attended a meeting for a brand that I have been supporting for many years now. It was fun to interact with other ladies who also advocate for the brand. I can’t wait to see how our ideas can translate to better marketing strategies for this brand, and I certainly look forward to more collaborations with this brand in the future on an advocate basis. 

The meeting surprised me, because I realized that I have so many ideas to contribute and share. I am truly passionate about this brand because it gives back to communities that need work. It empowers people through dignified wages. And as both a core advocate and an end user, I am happy to help them improve by sharing my expertise. 

After my fruitful meeting, I went to Barkin’ Blends to spend time with their friendly resident doggos. 

It warms my heart that my favorite doggo, Ella, is always this excited to welcome me to the cafe. 

Spending time with her and the other doggos is priceless, and the comfort they bring is second to none. 

For dinner, I had Tapa King, which is a favorite from my childhood.  

I also had a cookies and cream frappe from Farron Cafe. It was delicious!

And before going home, I watched The Girl in the Orange Dress at Cinema Centenario. It always feels like home for me in this microcinema. I have a favorite seat there (G5!), and it’s the best way to end a productive day. 

I’ll always support brands that promote goodness and purposeful living in my own way. And in the course of my journey, I’ll find ways to unwind by spending time with dogs and supporting local films. Here’s to more purposeful Saturdays!

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. 

Sunday Slowdown

Yesterday, I heard Sunday mass with my family.  

We later had Chinese brunch as my dad wanted comfort food.  

Then, I packed all these stuff for my crafternoon at Makers Cafe. 

I went there to buy my minimalist stainless steel Catriona earrings. 

But I also went there to hang and knit!

I had carbonara and a long black to energize me as I craft. 

Then, I took out my copy of Always Be Creating by Abbey Sy and my journal to answer some journaling prompts from the book.  

I realized that I wanted a daily reminder of my late friend Diane, so I bought this side moon gold-filled necklace from Pulseras by Kim. 

Feeling inspired, I continued journaling using Abbey’s book. I also finished reading it in the cafe, and I no longer felt overwhelmed with my life. I realized that there is a process to pursuing my purpose and achieving my goals. And it pays to be creative in order to find beauty and meaning as I go along. 

I finished knitting my scarf. As I began crocheting a new one, I was privileged to witness the procession of the Black Nazarene. 

I packed my art bag and proceeded to Cinema Centenario to watch Rainbow’s Sunset. It was touching and heartwarming. 

I later had dinner at Get Greens. 

It was my first time there. Their green pesto pasta did not disappoint!

Then, I stitched my scarf together to turn it I tom an infinity one. 

I enjoyed my day at Maginhawa, and I got to do a lot!

Here’s to more crafternoons and warm memories. 

Hospital Life

My dad is in the hospital again, and I was on-call to help with errands and tasks for my family. 

I crocheted in the hospital room. 

I ate my packed lunch, which was chicken pot pie (a Christmas gift from a family friend). 

I bought some washable cotton face masks as I’ll need to wear them whenever I’m with my dad moving forward.  

I finished crocheting the cowl! 

Then, I visited Cinema Centenario to watch Gusto Kita with All My Hypothalamus. The film’s lead actress, Iana Bernardez, was amazing!

Whenever I am sad, I always go to Maginhawa for a film or some comfort food. I’m glad I finished my cowl, watched a film, and got home feeling better.

Here’s to staying strong amidst struggles!

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.