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!

Playtime with Dogs

Yesterday, I spent the afternoon playing with the dogs of Barkin’ Blends Dog Cafe. Yes, again. I’m there at least twice a week. Sorry not sorry!

I got to play with their new dog, Buchi. She’s a beagle-corgi mix, and she is assigned at their SM North Towers branch.  

She’s really playful, and she seems to like my pixie! 

Of course, no visit to the dog cafe will be complete without some cuddle time with my favorite, Ella.

Before going home, I also got to meet another new dog, Bonita the poodle.  

I’m really attached to Barkin’ Blends’ dogs and the humans behind this cafe. I will definitely be back very soon!

Cut and Specs

Yesterday, I had my pixie trimmed at the affordable salon near my home. 

I feel renewed whenever I have my monthly haircut. I feel grateful for the support of my loved ones in this difficult time as I am still able to pamper myself within my means. 

I received some Starbucks top-up from my loved ones, so I was able to collect enough stickers for a 2019 planner. My solo coffee sojourns have provided me with clarity amidst the challenges that my family is currently facing. 

I also returned to Elait for some hand-rolled frozen yogurt. Their desserts are delicious, but even better than that is their advocacy, which is hiring deaf servers who whip up these awesome treats. 

I continued enjoying my Monday as I went to Barkin Blends Dog Cafe at SM North Towers to spend time with my favorite doggos. 

This is still my favorite dog cafe because the dogs are treated well. They are walked outdoors and they have enough food, water, and updated shots. Best of all, they are happy and trained to be sociable with human guests- even with kids!

I drove home feeling warm and fuzzy after spending time with the furbabies. So imagine my heightened happiness when I received news that my wish for a new pair of plastic specs has been granted by @dearsunniessanta, the social media gift-giving arm of my favorite eyewear brand, Sunnies Specs. 

I am grateful to everyone who are helping me get through the holidays now that my dad is terminally ill. Self-care is important as it enables me to provide better care to my loved ones. I am definitely loved and I will pass it on this holiday season and beyond! 

Self-Care Saturday

Yesterday, I got to swing by the Human Nature flagship store to check out this year’s Christmas boxes. As you know, I am a Human Nature core advocate. You may help me and Gawad Kalinga communities by purchasing fair trade toiletries from my online store.  

Thank you in advance for your support! 

Afterwards, I went to The Maker’s Cafe to clear my head with some knitting. 

This charming cafe, which is right beside my Alma mater Holy Family School, always gets me in a creative vibe. 

I ordered their chicken alfredo, which is pleasantly spicy. It was a delicious crafternoon companion. 

Then, I dropped by the hospital to care for our sick family member. Since the hospital stay will end tomorrow, I brought home this pretty pot of flowers in my Knitting Expedition tiyargo bag. 

I had dinner at Uno Cinquenta, which had a lowkey Christmas vibe. I totally like their minimalist decor. 

I also got my pixie trimmed at a nearby salon beforehand. 

I got a gyudon from the park’s Japanese resto.  

I got my legs waxed...

 ...then I drove home to finish knitting this cowl. I used mocha fusion yarn purchased from The Attic Yarn and Craftery. 

Self-care for me is a practical journey. If I don’t care for myself, then I won’t be able to effectively care for others too. It all begins with me, so I make sure that my needs are met. As you can see, I have simple rituals, and they do keep me grounded. I hope that you have also found your self-care routine, and that they also help you to be the best version of yourself. 

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. 

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.