Coloring My Vision

I ordered a pair of tinted specs from local optical shop Sunnies Specs. I won a pair of glasses during their Dear Sunnies Santa giveaway last December. Since my father passed away recently, I felt the need to start anew and I’ve always wanted to support Sunnies Specs after their generosity last Christmas. 

I get new glasses during new beginnings. I believe that it is now my time to be stronger and more stable after my father’s passing. These new tinted specs will not only keep me looking smart, but they will also inspire me to live life more colorfully. 

I’ve also been getting more sleep and it shows on my clear skin. 

After claiming my specs, I went to CITEM in Pasay for my training. I am chosen to be a NAIA Services Representative for the second time. The upcoming IFEX fair will usher in foreign buyers, and it is my job to welcome and assist them at the airport. 

I can’t wait to begin this three-day “modeling gig” and meet new friends. 

After my meeting, I had late lunch at Echo Cafe, a sustainable social enterprise that sells natural products and healthful food.  

I had their delicious banana heart burger and cafe espagnole, which is a mix of coffee and chocolate. So good! 

I capped the afternoon by visiting my best friend Luti at her condo. She took this photo of me from her window.  

I had my pixie trim for the month of May and a massage to relax me after a long day. 

I also received this gift of semiprecious bracelets from Luti. I am eager to release negative emotions and have more energy this year!

Here’s to more colorful opportunities and blessings on this new beginning! 

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! 

Corner Pixie

Yesterday, I got a pixie trim from our neighborhood salon. I am happy that there’s a reliable salon just around the corner. 

I love that the stylist knows how to cut a mean pixie! It’s not easy to find a skilled stylist who can make me look pretty and polished with my pixie cut. Some stylists in the past have made me look boyish, which is why looking for the right stylist is key to maintain this wash-and-wear cut. I am glad that I found my match a few steps away from home. 

I also had a delicious kani mango sandwich and caramel frappe from the cafe in our neighborhood.  I am loving how close these establishments are to my home, and that my interests- monthly pixie trims and daily coffee- are conveniently within my reach. 

It doesn’t take much to keep myself happy and looking sharp. I know where to eat, go for a haircut, and how to live a good life without breaking the bank.

Here’s to more adventures just around the corner! 

Maria Movie Premiere

Last night, I went to UP Cine Adarna for the premiere of Maria. The night was a lovely blur, just like this photo. 

I’m all for a female-led action movie, and I’m happy that Cristine Reyes is the lead of this promising local film.  

The iconic ceiling of UP Cine Adarna is mesmerizing.  

Cristine Reyes is beautiful in her new hot pink pixie. 

I stayed for the Q&A with the cast and production crew. The movie kicked ass and I highly recommend it! 

Here’s to more female action movies and local films! 

Valentine’s Clutch

I’m single and happy on Valentine’s Day. While I’m looking for a partner, I’m also happy with myself. I think that’s the perfect foundation for a relationship, because I’m already fulfilled on my own. 

Having said that, I finished crocheting this clutch using cotton yarn from my favorite local notions store, The Attic Yarn and Craftery.  

To celebrate, I got myself some ensaimada and iced coffee from my neighborhood cafe.  

I also got a pixie trim and I feel fabulous! 

Self-love is the best foundation for a relationship. I am fortunate to have found fulfillment with my own talents, such as crochet! I know that whoever will date me in the future will be a lucky man because I’m already comfortable in my own skin. 

Keeping Up with 2019

Yesterday, I had another meeting. I think it turned out fine! 

After my productive morning, I had my pixie trimmed. Haircuts really have an amazing effect on my confidence, that’s why I get one each month. 

I had the Sgt. Steak salad and garlic hummus for lunch. 

Then, I visited Barkin’ Blends Dog Cafe for some cuddle time with Ella and my other furry friends.  

I ended my day with a breakfast smoothie from Go! Salads. I like this place so much, I had my lunch and dinner there.

2019 is turning out to be a fruitful year for me. I am eager to keep up with this year’s challenges by looking for the right opportunities to pursue, and balancing them with my passions. 

Bring it on!

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. 

Back to Me

Yesterday, I bought Maine Mendoza’s MAC Maker lipstick in her custom shade, @mainedcm. I think it’s adorable that she named it after her Instagram handle. And in fairness, it is a wearable nude shade. I am in between morena and mestiza, so finding the perfect nude can be quite a challenge. This lippie gives me a subtle pop of color without washing my face out. I feel proud to wear Pinay MAC Maker’s lipstick, and in so little color, I feel as if I have returned to myself. 

Like all MAC lipsticks, the matte formula has lasted me through two meals and a coffee break. I am very happy with my new lippie!  

Pixie with a Purpose

Yesterday, I worked out at 6am. 

I ate my favorite toasted naked longganisa with brown talangka rice at Breakfast Bin. 

Then, I bought some office essentials from Human Nature. I am especially excited to use my Mori Notes gadget case in a cheery pineapple print. It is designed to smaller gadget essentials like cords and plugs. 

It is sewn by underprivileged artisan moms, allowing them to earn as they work from home.  

I also had coffee... 

...and I finished crocheting this gray cowl for my friend Bernadette, who’s celebrating her birthday this week. 

I also started crocheting a cowl in sky blue and pink hand-dyed yarn.  

I do like investing in quality items, but occasionally purchase trendy things too. I bought the Adeline sling bag from local vegan leather goods store, The Satchel Diva. Their bags are lightweight and on-trend, which are two factors I look for in an everyday handbag. 

Then, I went to the dermatologist... 

...and had my pixie trimmed at the salon next door. 

I offered eggs and prayed for my intercessions at St. Clare.  

And I had a lovely late lunch at Barkin Blends Dog Cafe.  

They have doggo burgers as take-away treats for puppers at home. 

I had their delicious carbonara... 

...and latte! 

And I had the best time with their doggo buddies.  

I couldn’t resist my favorite dog Ella!  

Finally, I ended my day with a 90-minute massage at our neighborhood spa.  

I enjoy self-care and crafting because I feel centered after doing the things I love. I can’t wait to go back to work after unwinding with some fiberarts, dogs, and retail therapy. That’s how I live balanced life, with a little pixie dust for good measure.  

Cut and Concert

Yesterday, I had my pixie trimmed at another salon that I go to every now and then. One of the ways that I care for my mental health is through getting a monthly haircut. There is something powerful and soul-reviving about a few snips that could define my features. Since having a pixie almost two years ago, I noticed that it has given me no choice but to embrace my face- flaws and all. I don’t have a long curtain of hair to hide from. Also, it’s a pretty good foundation for the things that define my style, like earrings and lipstick. 

The whole process of having my hair shampooed... 

...cut, blow-dried... 

...and styled, has an enormous effect on my self-esteem and mood. If I could handle the monthly task of maintaining my personal hairstyle, then I can certainly manage a routine that will help me grow as a person.  

Another way that I care for myself is by treating myself to concerts every now and then. From intimate bar or museum shows to stadium performances, it has always been a part of my life to enjoy live music. Last night, I watched Iisa, the much-awaited concert of 3D (Danao, Dancel and Dumas) at the Kia Theatre. 

There is something empowering about watching a concert on my own. If I can handle the feels without anyone else with me, then I can certainly move on and learn from the past through songs and memorable lyrics. 

I ate dessert first...

...and later had a burrito in between performances. 

The whole concert was an emotional journey, as the artists (especially Ebe Dancel) sang songs which have already become the soundtrack of my life. I left the concert happier and more alive, as I was able to listen to music which have touched my soul at some point in time. 

I take care of myself, by indulging myself in haircuts, food, and concerts, because I want to be carry on with life as a happier individual. I do not believe in standing still, as I am more keen on doing things that will have an impact on my life so that I could pass it on to others. It’s helpful to have a routine, like a monthly haircut. It’s also fantastic to have a treat every now and then, like a concert with all the feels. I deserve to be human, and I hope that you will also find what speaks to you so that you can share it to others as well.  

Pixie Confidence

I frequently get asked when I will grow my hair long again, and the answer is probably never. I have enjoyed having pixie hair for years now, as it is a wash and wear style. It has saved me time and energy as my hair requires minimal​ styling, just a bit of wax and I’m good to go. It matches any outfit, whether I’m in workout gear, corporate, or casual clothes. 

I like experimenting with lipsticks, and my pixie goes well with blue, gray, black, red, or pink lips. I enjoy looking fierce with minimal effort. I only go to the salon for a trim once a month. I purchase a jar of wax that lasts me a month and a half, and when I don’t have time to air dry my hair, I use my blower to get the job done. I use a strengthening shampoo from my online shop​ everyday to keep my hair sleek and clean. Lastly, it has also allowed me to stand out in a sea of long-haired maidens. 

If you are also considering a pixie cut, I would suggest that you go for it! It’s only hair, and it will grow longer if you realize that the pixie isn’t your cup of tea. I did not expect this level of commitment when I first had my pixie cut, but I fell in love with the minimalism of the whole process. Also, I can wear striking earrings without looking too extra! If you want a good excuse to wear sparkly bling and still look chic everyday, then go for the pixie cut. Try a bold lip while you’re at it. And always smile, because people will notice it more when you have very short hair. 

Remember, a sleek hairstyle will never make you feel good unless you are already confident on the inside. Work on that first, then get the pixie. You can thank me later.  

Trim and Pray

I enjoyed knitting while waiting for my lunch yesterday at Pho Hoa. I had chili shrimps with rice and as always, I enjoyed it with sriracha. 

I had my pixie trimmed at the salon after lunch. 

Then, I went to St. Clare Monastery to pray and give thanks. 

I always treasure days that are productive yet still chill. I hope that I will have more days which are a balance of leisure, work, and prayer. 

Pixie Ramen Monster

Yesterday, I dropped by my derma for my usual treatment. While waiting for her assistant to prep me, I knitted on the bed. It was relaxing, and it also made me happy!

After my check-up, I proceeded to the salon for my pixie update for March. 

I knitted some more while having coffee, then I met my BFF for sizzling ramen at Kureji. 

I had the sizzling shoyu ramen. It was delicious and flavorful. The sizzling stoneware kept the broth hot and tasty as my BFF and I updated each other on our lives. 

We had coffee afterwards, and I knitted while we talked. It was comforting, and knitting helps me focus better. 

It was a fun day, and an insightful evening. Here’s to more ramen, knitting, and cups of coffee.  

Day 5: #30GratefulDays | Pixie Update

I keep my hair short out of necessity. My mane is prone to hair fall due to my hypothyroidism. I used to keep my hair long but it was a hassle to maintain and really, hair fall is not pretty. It was not fun changing my hairstyles just to cover a bald spot. In 2014, I have finally had enough and I finally donated my hair to Cuts Against Cancer.

I started with a bob, then I eventually went for my now-standard pixie cut. It is very easy to maintain, as I only need to put wax on it and have it trimmed each month. It is also easier to live with, as I workout outdoors and having short hair makes it a breeze to dance. It is also liberating to be a pixie girl in the Philippines, where having long hair is still the popular standard of beauty. I think this is sexist and having a pixie is my subtle statement against the patriarchy. Having short hair can be beautiful, fashionable, and yes, feminine. While I am not against the LGBT community, I am straight, so this is not even a gender thing. It is merely a necessary move to save my hair, and in the end, I saved myself from blending in a sea of long haired girls.

I found my identity in styling my short hair and making fashion work for me as I can go edgy with minimal effort. Also, this fuss-free style has made me less conscious about my appearance. I just go with the flow and face the world as I am.

Such is my life with having a pixie. Every month is a chance to start over on a hairstylist's chair. And every haircut is cathartic. If you need a change in your life, have a trim or go big with a haircut! Trust me, a few snips here and there can make a huge difference in your outlook and confidence.