Old Congress Coffee

I recently visited Old Congress Coffee along Visayas Avenue, Quezon City. I went there for the coffee and vinyl records, and I was not disappointed.

The cafe has an extensive coffee menu that happens to include light food pairings

The cafe also has cakes to go with your coffee

They serve Yardstick Coffee, and I got a taste of this smooth blend when I ordered my americano. My sardines pasta was deliciously al dente. It was a pairing that I will definitely enjoy again as it was flavorful and awakening.

The cafe plays vinyl records on their Pioneer sound system

As for the vinyl records, I enjoyed the Bread and Coldplay songs that I heard during my stay. It was quite an experience to listen to songs which happen to be my style on HiFi.

The author’s crochet project with her sardines pasta and americano

I will definitely go back to this magical place!

Jan 1 Joys

I am grateful to have the privilege of beginning the year on a high note. I celebrated the new year with mass at the Pink Sisters Convent in New Manila, where I got to pray for my intentions and of course, give thanks for all the blessings that I have received.

Then, I had dinner with my family at Cibo. I started my meal with a cold one and some minestrone soup.

I also ordered my Cibo favorite, the Farfalle alla Genovese. Everything was delicious, comforting, and celebratory!

Cheers to a bountiful year ahead!

Rizal Day 2019

I’m one of those Rizal die-hard fans who visit Luneta on Rizal Day. Yesterday was no exception, as I made the trip to visit my favorite hero.

This year, I hired one of the onsite photographers to take my photo by his final resting place.

As is my custom, I visited the site of his execution.

Then, I decided to date myself at the Luneta Hotel for late lunch. I wrote about this hotel in college as it is known for its French Renaissance architecture. Today, it proudly stands amidst the modern buildings of Manila.

It was the perfect setting for my solo date. I had the truffle pasta, and of course, San Miguel Pale Pilsen.

For dessert, I had the hotel’s famous sampaguita ice cream and coffee. Everything was delicious!

I feel thankful for all the blessings I have received this year. I am optimistic that the new decade will bring forth more positive energy and love for me and my family.

Happy new year!

Cafe Libertad

Yesterday, I got to catch-up with my high school friend Dani at Cafe Libertad. She partly runs it, and I’m really proud of her space! I had their sausage and tomatoes pasta, which was delicious. Their flat white was also amazing.
I also met some of her friends who were dining at the cafe. It was a relaxing hipster vibe, and I enjoyed my visit.
Do check them out as well and have a cuppa with some magnetic poetry and great company!

Onward

Lately, we’ve been having water interruptions in our city. We have adjusted to the schedules, and in my case, changed my lifestyle to ensure that I am able to keep up with the shortages. I make sure that I have enough water to keep myself clean and hydrated. Our household is doing its best to live with dignity amidst the status quo. 

This was why the lunch celebration we had to celebrate an uncle’s birthday yesterday was a welcome relief from the challenges we are facing. It was held in Amici, where I had this delicious plate of Spaghetti Pomodoro. I loved it, and I’ll order it again when I’m in the restaurant soon. 

Life may throw many challenges my way, but I’m strong enough to face them and keep my family afloat. They are simply tests to strengthen my faith and keep me going. For now, I will keep on hustling, fighting, and collecting enough water for the next few days and weeks. 

Yarn and Healing

Yesterday, I had to sort out some personal challenges. After I got those out of the way, j rewarded myself with lunch at Embrace Cafe.

The cafe employs marginalized and disabled staff. I admired the staff’s positivity and excellent service, despite their circumstances. It is clear that they feel empowered at work.  

I had a delicious plate of carbonara and a cold glass of coffee jelly.  

I knitted and at the cafe for hours, so I ended up eating spaghetti for dinner there. 

Sometimes, I just need to be exposed to people who feel empowered with opportunities to know that I am also capable of improving my life. I know that I am doing my part, and with consistency, I will be one resilient woman.  

Social Saturday

Yesterday, I bought my personal toiletries from the Human Nature Flagship Store. I also bought some orders for my customers. For all your natural personal care needs, just buy from my Human Nature Online Store! Thank you!  

I also claimed my Dealer ID from the girls at the store.  

I finally got my own Human Nature matte lipstick too! This is much talked about as the packaging is mostly paper. Here I am in the shade Warmth.  

I indulged in some pasta for lunch at the Vertis North weekend market. 

Then, I met up with my best friend Luti for some froyo at Elait,  

I ordered their strawberry mango cheesecake froyo and it was heavenly as always! 

We also had Fried Chicken Master. 

And for dinner, I had Kimchi Project’s kimchi rice.  

Life is always better with natural products, good food, and great company! 

Risk Management Masterclass Day 2

Yesterday was the second day of the Disaster Risk and Crisis Management Masterclass series at the Asian Institute of Management. I had the Sicilian Pasta Salad with pesto dressing at Juju Eats to kickstart my day.  

I reached my destination in a heartbeat thanks to the improving MRT.  

A case study got everyone in the Masterclass awake and in high spirits for the information that was going to be imparted to us. 

I learned that there are careers in risk management, and there is a need for people to lend their expertise in preventing mayhem from ensuing before and after each disaster. Communication also plays a key role in improving systems in place and informing the general public. 

After the class, I went to Landmark Makati to buy some essentials for my family.  

It was nostalgic as my family and I used to shop for groceries here when I was a kid.  

I also went to St. Clare Monastery to offer eggs and pray for my special intentions.  

Again, the MRT wowed me with cool AC and efficient crowd control on the way home.  

I ended my day with some Fried Chicken Master!

I am thankful for yesterday’s learning opportunity, and I look forward to the last day in the masterclass series!

Risk Management Masterclass Day 1

Yesterday, I got to attend the first day of the Masterclass Series on Disaster Risk and Crisis Management. Before commuting to Makati, I ate my usual pesto pasta salad from Juju Eats. 

It was gloomy when I reached the venue, AIM. 

The classic staircase greeted me again. 

And I was welcomed by learning. My key takeaway is that disaster risk management should start at home and it should be a personal responsibility. Some examples of these are knowing earthquake safety procedures and converting to energy-efficient appliances. 

I had a productive afternoon and it’s always fabulous in Makati.  

I knitted during the P2P ride going back to Quezon City.  

I can’t wait to learn more in the coming days at AIM!

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. 

Healthier and Happier

I had salad again yesterday! I wanted to eat healthful food again, so I had the Sicilian pasta from Juju Eats for lunch. 

It was refreshingly flavorful! 

Then, I proceeded to Barkin’ Blends for some cuddle time with my furry friends. 

It was a quick but therapeutic coffee break from my responsibilities.  

After running some errands, I had dinner at Go! Salads, where I had the Sgt. Steak again. Their chimichurri dressing is addicting.  

I can’t wait to see how this healthy eating spree goes. So far, I feel fresher and more vibrant now that I’m eating salads often. With some furry therapy and a some coffee, I know that I got this.  

Waking Up to Hope

Yesterday, I dropped by St. Clare to pray for my dad. I also prayed that I will have a job soon, and that I will also find someone with a good heart to date. 

I also got a Sgt. Steak salad from Go! Salads for lunch. 

I liked their chimichurri dressing and it went well with the seared steak and mushrooms!

I had Mang Cha-a iced coffee to offset the strong taste of the chimichurri. 

And for dinner, I had the meatball marinara pasta salad from Juju Eats. 

I wake up for myself, so that I can help my family during this difficult time. I need to take care of myself first by eating right and praying hard. And tomorrow, I’ll have to repeat these steps until hopefully, my dad is healed.

Here’s hoping that I’ll find more reasons to hope this 2019! 

Sunday Hugs

Yesterday was a fun one. I started the day with Sunday mass with my family. 

I crocheted while having lunch afterwards. 

I saw We Bare Bears mascots. 

And I got to cuddle my fave dogs again at Barkin’ Blends Dog Cafe. 

I also saw my friend Ate Tina, who is one of the kind people behind the dog cafe.  

I ended my day with some frozen yogurt from Elait. 

As we prepare for Christmas, let us never lose sight of what matters most, such as family, friends, and fiber arts!

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!

QC Foodtrip

Last Sunday, I had lunch with my high school bff Luti at the original Mister Kabab branch. 

I had yogurt shake... 

...and my favorite, special chicken chelo kabab, double ground! 

That night, I ate solo at Steak to One at Quezon Memorial Circle. It was my first time there. 

And their chicken pesto did not disappoint! 

I got to walk around the park before going home, and I must say that it looks pretty festive at night.  

It doesn’t take a lot to celebrate simple days with good food and bright lights. A visit to an old favorite, a new resto, and some Christmas lights can surely uplift oneself.  

May you also find the light that inspires you to carry on! 

Pixie Dust

Lately, I’ve been handling a lot on my plate. I have to take advantage of the short breaks that I have in each day to eat at drink coffee. 

In this case, I had the cheesy baked penne and brewed coffee from Mister Donut. This combo never fails to uplift me.  

I also got myself this door hanger from Papemelroti. A lot of people have been criticizing me for having a pixie. But I like rocking my hair this way, and I refuse to believe that I have to change my style in order to satisfy what the world wants. 

After all, the things that really matter are faith, trust, and a little pixie dust- that it factor that makes me stand out! 

And lastly, I received this eco bag from Batik Boutique, a social enterprise from Malaysia. You may say that it’s only a simple tote, but I do appreciate being acknowledged for my interest in supporting social entrepreneurs. 

One day, I will find someone who won’t ask me to grow my hair long. I will keep on attracting the right people, because I keep on promoting the things and causes that make me happy. And I will always begin and end my day with good food and coffee, as I get over each challenge with a little pixie dust. 

Makers Cafe

Yesterday, I got to catch the opening of Makers Cafe. It is located along Maginhawa Street, and it is right beside my alma mater, Holy Family School. 

I won a pair of Pulseras by Kim stud earrings, and I gladly selected a pair of starry ones.  

I also got to meet Kim, the lady behind Pulseras by Kim! The cafe is also hers, and I’m stoked to have a space along my favorite foodie street that sells coffee and bling. 

I ordered their carbonara. It was delicious!

Their flat white did not disappoint. 

The tiny space was spruced up with hipster details. 

They also have fast WiFi connection, electric sockets, and yummy waffles. 

I bought gold-filled jewelry from Kim as well: a textured chain and a minute Eiffel pendant. So cute! 

Do take note that Kim also customizes jewelry. She also sells in bulk for giveaways.  

I also bought hoop earrings for my mom. 

Before driving home, I took selfies with my alma mater’s facade. 

I love bling, pasta, waffles, and coffee. All these can be found under one roof. I will definitely be back for more coffee and good vibes! 

Staying True

Yesterday, I had a meeting at Cafe Mary Grace. As it is one of my usual coffee shops, I opted to change my order and try something new. I had their Spanish sardines pasta, and it was so flavorful. I will definitely have it again. 

I managed to crochet while eating and wrapping up my meeting. I have always advocated integrating my handmade lifestyle with my daily grind. So far, it has been a success and yarn can really open up my world to possibilities, thanks to the focus I gain from the repetitive stitches. Having a hobby can work wonders on one’s overall well-being, and I am no exception. 

After lunch, I bought my second cup of coffee because I felt that my cuppa from Mary Grace was not enough. I wandered into Booksale and I had a lovely time browsing. It really is a happy place for me.  

Staying true to myself is never a problem. I know myself very well, and I am able to live out my ideals amidst the busyness of adulthood. With that in mind, I am confident that I will be able to hustle with a heart and stay loyal to my tribe. There is no need to compromise my values, as long as I remain authentic. 

Spaghetti, Yarn, and Yearning

Yesterday, I knitted while having lunch at Pancake House. I had their spaghetti, which is one of my favorite spaghettis of all time. It was a delight to hang out at a classic place, and it was a joy to knit while doing so. 

The repetitive stitches do help me relax. This is why I highly recommend knitting to anyone who needs a new hobby. 

I got home to the latest newsletter from the Pink Sisters Convent in Quezon City. They have also included a piece of paper for my intercessions for the month. It is indeed time to go back. 

My passions for food, knitting, and prayer are connected to each other in such a way that there is continuity between them. I am able to nourish my body, my mind, and my soul by practicing what I love. I look forward to a restful weekend ahead so that I may unwind and prepare for a productive week.  

Father’s Day Food Coma

Yesterday, I celebrated Father’s Day with my family at Amici Technohub. Since my parents value their privacy, I do not involve them with my blog. So let me just share with you some photos I took from our food coma lunch. 

Technohub is home to ducks! They live along the stream which surrounds the property. 

It was fun to chase them around while waiting for our orders. 

We had pizza margherita...

 ...and I had creamy truffle rigatoni. The pizza is our go-to order there, while the pasta was a new dish. It was delicious! I will definitely order it again. 

I finished my lunch with cookies and cream gelato. 

Father’s day 2018 was a laid-back celebration for my family. Here’s hoping that next year, we will be blessed to have another celebration that’s worth blogging about.