Strong Friendships

I received a care package from my college friend Alexis the other day. It contained goodies from her recent trip to Japan. I squealed in delight when I opened the bag, because they contained stuff in my favorite color palette! 

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I am thankful to have few but genuine friends in my life. We may not have much at the moment as we are prioritizing the medication for my dad’s terminal illness, but I have priceless friendships that keep me going. 

Living Coral

Yesterday, I welcomed the new year with a living color top, my new specs, and a fresh outlook on life.  

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This year, I vow to be straightforward in everything I do. If there’s anything that I want, I will go for it! Life is too short. Let’s keep it simple. 

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My first lunch of the year was the Darling Breakfast Salad from Go! Salads. It was delicious thanks to the ground longganisa bits and tomato honey vinaigrette. 

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After lunch and some malling, I heard mass at the Pink Sisters Quezon City convent.  

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I prayed for good health, healing for my family, a job, a good boss, and most of all, a boyfriend! 

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I ended my day with some baked salmon for dinner, which was a gift from a family friend.  

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I am optimistic that 2019 will be a remarkable year, and I am determined to work smarter, not harder, to achieve the dreams that I have for myself and my family.

God bless us all!

Pink Christmas

I recently ordered a millennial pink unicorn from social enterprise Mayown. I recently took an advance crochet workshop with its founder, Leen, so it was perfect to gift myself with their product this Christmas. 

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This little buddy will keep me company this Christmas, and beyond. I’ve decided to name him Stitch!

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Leen was so sweet and she even included an octopus bag charm. 

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Stitch surely looks good with Ella the knitted dog and Chubbs the cat!

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Yesterday was special as I claimed my new pair is Sunnies Specs from @dearsunniessanta

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I selected the Dakota in Pale Nude. My new specs are lightweight and stylish. 

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I ended my day by cuddling with Ella from Barkin’ Blends Dog Cafe and placing my glasses on various sleeping dogs. 

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Times may be challenging for me and my family, but with the will to wish and the drive to celebrate small (and big) wins, I know that I will have a memorable holiday season!

Una’s Portrait of Me

I commissioned artist Una Buendia to draw me, and this was the result!

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She has perfectly captured my sarcasm and my current style staples (glasses for astigmatism, dangling earrings, and pixie hair). If you also want to see how the world views you, ask an artist to illustrate you. You may check out Una’s Instagram to see her interesting work and you may go from there.

Knitting Pink

I continued knitting after missing it for a while. I have been dealing with adulting lately, and crochet has proved to be a quicker craft to provide faster results. However, there is something deeply satisfying about knitting that brings me joy. Even finishing a simple beanie the other day has sparked a love for knitting which brings be back to my Banaue trip last February

I have come a long way since learning how to knit earlier this year. I still prefer knitting without a pattern, but I like seeing my growth as I process my thoughts, one stitch at a time. Being a knitter has allowed me to have conversations with myself while making scarves and beanies. And as I finished this bright pink beanie, I was able to make peace with myself. I was able to forgive myself too.  

Consider knitting as a hobby! It is great for thinking things through and reflecting on your life. It is also an excellent craft to take along with you. I bring my works in progress to events and it has helped me focus too. Do it for yourself, and start searching for tutorials or workshops today. You won’t regret it.  

 

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Chewy Beginnings

The past week has been challenging for me, but I am still here! I didn’t die, and I am still able to crochet, blog, and have fun!

I had a relaxing lunch at Scout’s Honor yesterday with my family. I had their pesto mealballs rice bowl. It was delicious! 

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I also had their Americano and make-your-own cookie. Mine had a chewy base with dark chocolate, cream cheese, and Chocnut.  

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My visit to any restaurant won’t be complete without a powder room break. Their washroom did not disappoint! 

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I am digging their millennial pink walls and various frames. 

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I had a lovely lunch, and I am so inspired to begin again. Here’s to more lunches and possibilities!

32!

I turned 32 yesterday! I started my day by crocheting... 

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 ...getting work done...

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 ...and hearing mass at my alma mater’s beautiful chapel. 

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For lunch, I had this chocolate cake and latte from Starbucks.  

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I was able to spend lunch time with Karen, my friend from work.  

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  I also received a small cake from the office. 

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I managed to crochet a bit in school before taking the train back north. 

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Then, I had this delicious violet bread for snack. 

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And before I knew it, it was time for dinner with my family and friends at Botejyu!

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I had an amazing day and it was fabulous to spend it with the people I love and the food I enjoy. Here’s to more beautiful memories as I embark on my 32nd year of life! 

Purposeful Inspiration

I received a thank you card from my World Vision sponsored child. I treated her family to Noche Buena last Christmas. My gift also let her choose a present for herself. I was humbled when she asked for a water bottle as her gift.  

I always appreciate the letters I receive from my sponsored child because it allows me to see the bigger picture in life. I am looking for a corporate job not just to sustain myself, but also to support a child’s education. I am thankful that World Vision lets me share my blessings in the simplest manner. Being a child sponsor for eleven years has taught me the value of sharing and giving. I will never stop supporting World Vision for as long as I have the means to do so. 

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In addition to that, I also received thank you letters from the Pink Sisters. They always pray for me, as I frequently drop by their convent to give them my letters containing my intentions. I am thankful that these sisters keep me in mind, and yes, I will continue visiting their convent for as long as I can!

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Sharing, praying, and giving are just some of the ways that work can be meaningful. Having an income will let me support these causes, which will in turn inspire me to work hard and persevere in my job. It is my prayer that I will land the best job for me soon, and that I will continue to support my sponsored child and sisters in Christ.