Palm Sunday at Home

Celebrating Palm Sunday at home is a novelty for me. I am used to hearing mass on Sundays with my family, but for the meantime, it’s online mass while the city is on lockdown. I am thankful that the internet allows me to still be in communion with the church during this difficult time. It may not be ideal, but I feel close to the Lord when I am using technology to pray and be healed.

As I heard mass through Quiapo Church’s Facebook page, I realized that God has the power to use empty churches to bring people together while they are at home. It is through this unity with an unseen God that we can strengthen our faith. We can use the quarantine period to reflect on our lives and also look for ways to improve ourselves and our spiritual lives when things go back to normal.

We can also help others get back on their feet when the quarantine is over. Not everyone has the luxury of enjoying their hobbies at home. Many people are hungry and have insufficient resources. They need our help during and after the quarantine.

Our faith is only as good as the lives we live. We are not perfect, but if we try hard enough, then we can be good people in a very unkind world. It is up to us to be kind, and to pass on that grace to others. We could all use some light in these dark times.

Touring Home with Naya

We are still under enhanced community quarantine at Luzon, as the Covid-19 virus is still upon us. I am used to being out everyday, so being at home is a huge adjustment for me. I made the most of my stay so far by listening to music, crocheting, and diving straight into my unread book stash.

Mina V. Esguerra’s novel What Kind of Day satisfied my craving for a sexy yet substantial read. I read it on a lazy Sunday, with club music streaming in the background. I have been a fan of Mina’s writing since her Summit Books days. I even took one of her writing classes at the Ayala Museum a few years back. Her books may be in the romance department, but she always ensures that her female leads are strong, independent characters. I was not disappointed with this one as this theme still applies.

Naya is a tour guide who runs her own company See This Manila, while Ben is a political speechwriter who is facing challenges in his career. Both meet when Ben joins her tour by chance and discovers the city with brand new eyes. Naya is passionate about getting people to see the city differently and with a fresh perspective. This sounds like the perfect one-day getaway for a man who has been jaded with the perils of his job.

I especially liked how Naya discussed her academic background in media and film. She said that she focused on them because she was interested in “studying platforms…and studying how to use an evolving thing”. Meanwhile, Ben defines his speechwriting job as to “learn history, and write history”. These parallel contexts are ever-changing, which is interesting when juxtaposed with both characters’ perspective on failure.

Naya in particular was disenchanted with her previous job as a tourism vlogger, and has viewed failure as a journey which she creates for her tour guests in the form of unexpected itineraries. That way, her personal failure has evolved into a transformative experience for her guests.

Meanwhile, Ben has a more limited lens on failure as he has been a lawyer and successful political speechwriter for most of his career. His encounter with Naya turns out to be an influential journey to inspire him to use this time to regroup after visiting parts of the city which may seem familiar, yet offer more details than what is usually known about them.

It is interesting how Ben sees Naya’s touring business as a platform for change: “you give people a day like that. You give them a good day”. For Naya, she sees how Ben is more than just a fleeting guest, and realizes her own capacity for love and relationships. Both learn that relationships are about compromise, and that a beautiful sunset does not only happen by the Manila Bay.

This book is a gem because I found myself processing my own failures, and how I could also move on from this quarantine period once it is over. I am not in a relationship now, but I want to be the best person for my future date after the lockdown. While I am at home, I will find ways to build myself through books, music, and sharing my day on social media. It would not hurt to interact more with others, especially since I am used to being alone most of the time. Like Naya, I will also evolve and give relationships a chance after the virus dies down.

To order this book, please click here.

Morning Mass

Yesterday, I attended mass at Our Lady of Consolation Parish. 

I attended the 7am mass, then I visited my late friend Diane at the columbary beneath the church. 

After mass, I visited my dad in the hospital and crocheted the day away. 

It is possible to combine faith, friendship, and crafting in one day! I find ways to pursue my interests even if my days can be busy and hectic. It’s all about planning and knowing which materials to bring with me. 

Life is too short to be bored! 

Sunday Paws

Yesterday, I crocheted while waiting for my lunch at Barkin’ Blends Dog Cafe. I had the Bonnie Burger and a wintermelon milk tea. I missed this combo so much because food and milk tea are only available at the Sta. Lucia branch (I frequent the SM North Towers branch more because it’s closer to my house).  

I also missed the bigger doggos who are mainstays at Sta. Lucia. 

I also met Shadow, a rescued black Labrador who was abandoned at the vet. She was left behind after her original owners broke up. Now, she has a happy disposition at her new home.  

Another rescued dog is Potchi the pug, who has only one eye.  

All of their dogs are still so sweet and caring.  

I had some tokneneng (deep fried quail eggs) for snack...

...and some calamansi juice to perk me up.  

I ended my day with Sunday mass at St. Clare Monastery.  

Before driving home, I enjoyed a large cup of sour cheese fries from Potato Corner.  

Life is too short. We should make time to be with beings that cheer us up, for worship, and for cheat meals. Treat yourself within your means on weekends, and watch yourself take on the world during the workweek. 

Sunday at San Miguel

Yesterday, I went to San Beda’s Our Lady of Montserrat Abbey. I was able to witness their morning prayer or lauds. It was beautiful. 

Then, I walked to San Miguel Parish for the 8AM Sunday mass. 

Since it was Epiphany, there was a blessing of calendars. I was able to have mine blessed, along with my scapular. 

I dropped by St. Jude as this patron has been a blessing to me. I continued praying for my intentions.  

I had Go! Salads’ Sgt. Steak wrap for lunch. 

It was delicious and filling!

It was best paired with their vanilla lemongrass tea.  

I can’t get enough of churches because they are my physical link to the Lord. I also enjoy eating healthily because I would like to think that it helps with my overall well-being. I hope that I can contribute more for my family now that my father is terminally-ill. 

I hope that God is listening to my prayers for a job and continuous blessings for me and my family! 

Sunday Breakthrough

Yesterday, I got to catch the first night of Simbang Gabi for Sunday mass.  

Then, I joined my family for my second mass of the day. 

We had lunch at Amici, and I had this delightful combo of Aglio Olio pasta and ube gelato. 

It was a good day because my dad was able to go out and have mass for the first time in months. Here’s to more breakthroughs and positive moments!

The Active Foodie

Yesterday was all about simple joys such as food, fitness, and crafts. 

I had Potdog crab egg with garlic rice and sweet garlic sauce for lunch. Definitely worth the calories as this is one of my favorite supermarket fast food finds! 

After lunch, I walked to the newly-built SM North Towers to visit the newest Starbucks Reserve cafe. 

I was stunned! It honestly didn’t look like I was still in Quezon City.  

I had my coffee while knitting, and I was able to unwind.  

Then, I was able to buy these handmade polymer clay earrings from local brand The Baby Blue Bunny at The Craft Central.  

I ended my day with a sunset walk at UP and a simple dinner of cheese corn and Rodic’s tapsilog. 

Who says that I’m too complicated? I like food, coffee, crafting, buying handmade, and while it’s not pictured today, going to church. I burn everything I eat through fitness. And I keep the world updated through my blog. 

Here’s to balancing my life with each spoonful and step that I take! 

Fluffy Sunday

I spent my sunny Sunday with my favorite dog Ella at Barkin’ Blends! I love cuddling with her because she makes me feel as if all is well in this world. 

Her expressive little face also cheers me up whenever I look at our pictures together. 

I also got to hug the other dogs, like Charlie the chocolate lab. 

Then, I watched a local film entitled To Love Some Buddy. It was entertaining and funny! 

I also had the entire section of the cinema all to myself. 

I ended my day with a whole body massage by a blind masseuse. It was a relaxing way to unwind after a week of tasks and errands. 

I look forward to more chances to unwind to balance my life and find more meaning amidst daily challenges.  

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! 

Self-Care and Coffee

Yesterday, I spent the afternoon for grooming and self-care. 

I started my day with a wax session at my usual place.  

Then, I had my pixie trimmed at the salon next door.  

I liked the female stylist’s take on my pixie! I will definitely return for another trim from her. 

Next, I had late lunch at The Round Robin Cafe. My main course was their salmon carbonara, which is my go-to order whenever I’m there.  

And for dessert, I had their delectable matcha cheesecake and latte.  

Self-care can go a long way in reinforcing my self-esteem. Whenever you’re feeling down, try visiting a salon and a cafe. Your mood will definitely be brighter, and you will thank yourself later.  

August Coffee with Diane

Yesterday, I was able to visit my friend Diane’s final resting place. But first, I went to my local park for Zumba and breakfast. 

I brought my pass for next month’s Manila International Book Fair with me. Diane used to accompany me to previous book fairs when she was still alive. She is always on my mind whenever I visit anything book-related. 

I miss my friend, but I know that she is happy with my determination to thrive and carry on. I will be just fine.  

With Kate

I saw my goddaughter Kate yesterday and for a few minutes, my life was filled with cuteness!

Being with her inspires me to see the world with eyes that look for happiness and pastel colors. 

I hope to see Kate again so I can feel young and cute enough to be hugged by this little girl. 

Relaxing with Knitting

I am enjoying freestyle knitting. I realized that my initial yarn and needle stash was not enough, so I bought more yarns and a new pair of 5mm needles from Gantsilyo Guru. 

I immediately tried knitting one of my new yarns, and I brought it with me to the spa. I knitted while waiting for my turn...

 ...and I continued knitting while having my Thai foot massage! I chose the recliner beside the lamp, so I was able to knit. 

This tabletop yarn is a joy to work with. I simply cannot get enough of the color transition.  

Here’s to more relaxing moments while knitting!

Furballs and Faith

Last Sunday, I visited Barkin’ Blends Dog Cafe. It was my first visit for 2018, and it made me feel incredible as I missed my favourite dog Ella to bits.

Okay, I also missed their dark chocolate milk tea. 

Ella may not look happy but she was licking me before these pictures were taken. 

I’d like to think that she missed me too. 

Cuddling Ella (or any of the cafe’s numerous dogs) was therapeutic. That is why I keep coming back to the cafe even if they already moved to Cainta. 

The trip is always worth it. 

I get to hangout with dogs who love me. 

Each visit is golden. 

I will definitely be back, Barkin’ Blends! 

After playing with the dogs, I proceeded to St. Joseph along Anonas to visit the huge statue of the sleeping patron. 

I whispered my intentions and prayed that I will worry less this year, 

I had a great Sunday. I hope to enjoy more restful weekends this year and beyond! 

Sunday Browsing

There are times when I just want to be stuck at home and do nothing. Whenever that strikes, I get myself together and drive to a Zumba class. If it is the weekend, I grab breakfast at Maginhawa or a fast food restaurant. Today, I drove to Sidcor Sunday Market at Centris to browse and look around.  

I started visiting this Sunday market back when it was still being held at Lung Center. Since they transferred to Centris, my visits have become sporadic. Unsurprisingly, I tend to drop by whenever I am going through a challenge. Right now, I am just fighting laziness. Indie merchants and hard-to-find fares always jumpstart my system. Blame it on my inner shopaholic, but I simply enjoy window shopping and buying myself a treat along the way.  

I had a delicious breakfast, sipped brewed coffee, and looked around. There were many interesting objects to appreciate, but what I valued more was the joy I felt in discovering beauty in vintage, such as the ceramics in the photo. It inspired me to move forward and to reclaim my value in the midst of the challenges I am facing. My self-worth can never be haggled, unlike vintage objects. However, I can make my value appreciate through learning and hard work. It is up to me to do so. For now, I am enjoying my Sunday as I look forward to the rest of the week.