Yesterday, I got to reconnect with my good friend Grace. She was the HR Manager in my former office. I was ecstatic to learn that she is now based on QC, so we met up at Breakfast Bin in Maginhawa.
I ordered the veggie skillet and later, we had dessert at Papa Diddi’s.
I had the coffee and cheese ice cream scoops. So good!
It was so nice to reconnect with an old friend from the past! Hopefully, this will be the start of more rekindled friendships.
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!
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!
Yesterday, I visited the GK Enchanted Farm with fellow Human Nature Core Advocates for a tour and immersion. This was my sixth visit to the farm. My previous tours were as a social business camper and with friends. Now, I am back as a core advocate with my own Human Nature Online Shop.
But first I needed to fuel up at McDonald’s.
We met up at the Human Nature Flagship Store.
We were also given some nibbles by a fellow core advocate.
Then, it was time for our journey!
We reached the farm at around 9:30am, and we started the tour.
Our bubbly tour guide, Gelai, is a graduate of the SEED School. She speaks French, English, and Filipino!
I had a wonderful day of touring the farm, it’s various social enterprises, and of course, enjoying the delicious bounty of the earth!
It was time for our ride back to the city.
And before going home, I enjoyed an early dinner of toasted naked longganisa at Breakfast Bin.
I needed the farm tour to realign myself with my values and to appreciate life more. I am proud to see the farm grow, and to be in the company of kindhearted friends.
Here’s to more goodness and opportunities!
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.
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.
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.
Yesterday, I drove to the Human Nature Flagship Store along Commonwealth Avenue to attend the launch of their new lipsticks!
I was so excited to try these lipsticks. Matte lipsticks are my go-to makeup, and now I can finally buy this staple from my favorite natural store.
The formula is matte, yet it glides on smoothly without tugging.
And since my favorite shade is strength, I was chosen to represent it during the launch.
I had so much fun! And I am sure that you will definitely like these lipsticks too. Buy from me today via my Human Nature Online Store!
It was also a privilege to meet Sami, the daughter of my friend Ate Yla (she’s the manager of the Human Nature Flagship Store). She’s a college freshman with a small business of her own. I supported her accessories store by purchasing some semi-precious stone bracelets for my parents.
I also bought two bracelets for myself. They’re absolutely stunning! Plus, Sami donates part of the proceeds to charity.
I later had a waxing session nearby.
And finally, I got to have lunch again at Breakfast Bin. I missed their toasted naked longganisa with brown aligue rice.
I had a day of natural pampering, wherein I was even reminded of my strength. I am strong because I can still show up and be there at events despite all the challenges that I am facing. I can still smile and wear lipstick. And I am still capable of supporting businesses with a heart.
I hope that you will help me support myself and reach my dreams! Buy from my Human Nature online store today!
Yesterday, I got to join an Aerosports Dance-Off at Quezon Memorial Circle. It was from 6-9am. I had fun!
My friend Cyndi was also there to dance.
I rewarded myself with some knitting...
...and a bowl of yummy toasted naked longganisa with talangka brown rice for breakfast.
I also got to see the first game of the Battle of Katipunan between UP and Ateneo.
I was sad that UP lost, so I walked around the oval to comfort myself.
I got home to a package of yarns that I ordered from my favorite yarn store, The Attic Yarn and Craftery.
I’m glad that I was able to combine my passions for fitness and crafting in my life! Here’s to more fit weekends and crafternoons!
There are things that I simply enjoy doing on a weekly basis. For starters, I HAVE to eat Breakfast Bin’s toasted naked longganisa with brown talangka rice every week.
I also need some Papa Diddi’s ice cream to make each week more delicious. This cup of joy contains their matcha and barako coffee flavors.
A brisk walk around the UP academic oval eases me into my tasks.
And a visit to St. Clare Monastery helps me focus on my life in prayer.
My life may not be perfect, but my constants keep me grounded on things that matter. What are your weekly constants? I hope that they also give you a sense of purpose each week!
I love shopping because it helps clear my mind and it means that I get to buy my needs. I tend to buy Human Nature toiletries at the beginning of each month as it is when my bathroom needs restocking. Also, I still sell Human Nature goodies via my online shop. Please consider buying from my online shop as proceeds go to empowing Gawad Kalinga residents. Thank you in advance!
I also bring a tumbler whenever I visit Human Nature in order to enjoy their free-flowing brewed coffee.
For brunch, I had my usual toasted naked longganisa from Breakfast Bin.
And for dessert, I had Papa Diddi’s ice cream in ube and avocado rhum!
I later bought a new pair of platform Crocs, just because I never stopped loving the brand’s shoes. They’re perfect for Zumba.
Lastly, I visited the Human Nature branch at SM North Edsa to buy some things that weren’t available at the flagship store.
I had a busy yet therapeutic shopping session yesterday. I always bring a list of things to buy and I stick to my budget. That way, shopping is stress-free and fun.
I hope that you also enjoy shopping, and I look forward to seeing you on my online shop!
I’ve been crocheting, eating, and sipping coffee for the past few days. It has been a relaxing routine to balance my workouts.
This was Breakfast Bin’s adobo with egg and talangka rice.
For dessert, I had Papa Diddis’ cheese and coffee ice cream.
And yesterday’s lunch was at UCC. I had their famous rice casserole with curry hamburg.
I capped off my meal with my usual kori kohi.
Living simply does not mean that I have to have a boring life. I still enjoy the food that I crave for and I manage to carry on with my handmade lifestyle. I believe that the secret to my resilience is that I know what my priorities are. For as long as I have good food and yarn to work with, I know that I will have joy in my life. I hope that you will also find yours!
I capped off my birthday week with waffles and bacon! (P.S. Those white streaks on my hair are from my wax! They’re not gray hair!)
And of course, doggo hugs!
Barkin Blends will always be my happy place, and it was only fitting that I celebrated my birthday there. I am thirty-two, but these dogs keep me forever young! Here’s to more cuddles with the creatures who give me licks, smiles, and kisses!
Yesterday, I had my usual toasted naked longganisa with brown rice and aligue. It was perfect with a book and coffee.
I was still hungry after finishing my meal, so I had this hot chocolate stirrer for dessert.
It was a delicious drink, I must say! The chocolate melted after ten minutes of stirring. It resulted to a full-bodied chocolate experience.
My early morning, post-workout feels melted along with this hot chocolate. I will definitely have it again at Breakfast Bin, which has already become my happy place along Maginhawa. I look forward to more simple breakfasts and moments along my favorite foodie street in my city!
I am not the type who has heaps of friends. I have a few genuine friends though, and they have been with me through the years. I am lucky to have them, because I know that they appreciate the real me.
They have never used me for their own personal interests. Best of all, they are always there to listen.
Earlier this week, I had coffee with my college friend Miya...
...and dinner with my high school BFF Luti.
More than the food, the conversations, and the company, it's the time that I appreciate most from friends like Miya and Luti. I know that they will never get that time back. I look forward to more meaningful moments with my friends, and with them, I am unafraid of tomorrow.
Now that I am working full-time, I ensure that my weekends are spent well. I always begin my days with a workout, whether it’s a weekday or the weekend.
Last Saturday, I was reminded to count my blessings and be myself as I dropped by my usual waxing salon.
Then, I went to Human Nature to shop for my needs this August. I stocked up on moringa chocolate chip cookies...
...had some brewed coffee in the store...
...tried the new bath jelly (which was fun to use!)...
...and treated myself to a bar of Theo and Filo 70% dark chocolate!
I am also a fan of Human Nature’s new initiative to encourage shoppers to bring their own eco bags.
After shopping, I went to Breakfast Bin for even more coffee and pancakes.
And then, it was back to Human Nature for me as we celebrated our get-together with my fellow core advocates.
It was a fun night of potluck eats, karaoke, and friendship!
My Saturday was a relaxing one, because I got to eat, shop, and party for a good cause. I am glad that by supporting Human Nature, I also help Gawad Kalinga communities and provide jobs. I look forward to the rest of my workweek knowing that my weekends are spent with my advocacy. It makes all the hard work worth it.
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.
Yesterday, I started my day with Zumba at my local park.
After a hearty breakfast, I proceeded to the Pink Sisters Convent for some quiet prayer time.
I freshened up, and proceeded to have lunch with my good friend Jane. I ordered coffee...
...and the pancake set with longganisa. It was delicious!
Jane was my art teacher at one of my workshops. We have kept in touch, and she gave me one of her nifty handmade pocket sketchbooks.
These are some of Jane’s works!
I gave her a beanie which I knitted myself.
And since it was recently her birthday, we celebrated it at Breakfast Bin, my favorite brunch place.
I later had a foot massage which helped me relax.
Then, I sketched my lunch on Jane’s gift.
I also sketched my favorite creamy curry chicken bibimbowl.
This looks like a great way to jumpstart my return to food illustration!
I am thankful for friends like Jane who encourage me to sketch, paint, and laugh! Here’s to more memories with people that matter, and food that nourishes the soul.
Yesterday, I had a meeting in Ortigas. I knitted while waiting for it to commence, and as always, knitting was able to give me a sense of purpose and calmness.
It turned out to be a productive morning filled with promising opportunities! Before proceeding to the rest of my day’s agenda, I dropped by Padre Pio’s relic and statue at St. Francis of Assisi Parish to give thanks. I also prayed for wisdom in discernment and guidance as I embark on changes in my life.
I had the creamy cheesy penne, donut, and coffee combo from Mister Donut. It was a delicious and comforting lunch on a rainy day. I recommend that you try this combo as well, not just on rainy days! The pasta was indeed cheesy and creamy. And their donuts and coffee are always on point.
I wrapped up all my tasks for the day and had dinner at Breakfast Bin. I opted for my go-to meal there: the toasted naked longganisa, with a runny fried egg, talangka brown rice, and spiced vinegar.
I hope that you will never be afraid of exploring opportunities! Prayer works, and it helps in thinking things through. Meanwhile, knitting keeps my mind sharp with every stitch.
And as always, food nourishes me and warms my soul.
May you have a great weekend ahead, friends!
The past few days have been challenging for me, as I have been dealing with some personal matters. Good thing, I have friends who are here to hold my hand through every challenge.
One of them is Karel, who is my high school friend! We had brunch at my usual Breakfast Bin, where we both had toasted naked longganisa.
We continued catching-up at Papa Diddi’s for some ice cream and coffee.
I had purple love (ube) and jackfruit ice cream...
...and of course, Sagada pressed coffee!
Life gives us challenges so that we could think out of the box. Friends like Karel are simply there to help us laughs through the pain. Laughter helps, because it keeps us grounded and hopeful for better days to come. Delicious food will always be therapeutic. And just like my life right now, pressed coffee is amazing because of the pressure applied to bring out its flavor.
I’d like to think that my life is simply brewing a more flavorful future for me, and that an awakening is just around the corner.
All I have to do is to trust the process, and do my best.
