One Month Of Journaling

Today marks the first month of my daily journaling habit. This is my first daily journaling experience with a paper notebook and an actual pen. I must say that physical, tangible journaling has been helpful in the following ways:

1. I am able to share my stress management routine.

2. I am able to process anger.

3. I am able to break down what grief means to me and how it affects me.

4. I am able to plan the things that I still want to be better at for the rest of 2021.

5. I am able to share my favorite songs.

6. I am able to share my desk essentials and how they help me.
   

…and many more! I did not expect journaling to be a roadmap during the pandemic. It has become my guide to becoming a better person. I have built a habit that invites me to be kinder to myself. As a result, I am able to pass on this kindness to other people.

Here’s to more months of journaling!

Crochet and Massage

I recently had to buy some essentials at Daiso, so on top of all my supplies, I stocked up on some new toys. I got a foot roller, a pressure point stick, and a 4mm crochet hook. 

I’ve been hearing positive feedback about Daiso’s craft supplies and notions, so I was really excited to try their crochet hook. And it did not disappoint! It was perfect as it rested comfortably on my ring finger as I alternate between pen and knife grips. 

As always, this isn’t a sponsored post. I’m just happy with my purchases from Daiso. Yes, including the massage tools! I really believe that it doesn’t take much to cheer myself up. 

Also, this falafel platter from Halal Guys was delicious! 

I hope that you will also find some cheap finds that will wow you. Happy shopping! 

Talangka Rice and Cheese

I decided to shake things up a bit when it comes to my regular toasted naked longganisa at Breakfast Bin. I requested for talangka brown rice instead of my usual plain one. I knew it would be delicious, but I was unprepared for the way it amazed me. 

It was the best longganisa meal I have ever had! 

For dessert, I walked to next-door neighbor Papa Diddi’s for another unusual ice cream combo. This time, I chose cheese closed and tsokolate de Cagayan.  

Again, I was unprepared for the deliciousness that ensued. The cheese chunks blended well with the strong tsokolate taste. It was a full-bodied ice cream experience I will definitely enjoy again. 

I still have more flavors and combinations to explore in my upcoming visits!

If you feel that there is something missing in your life, or if you feel bored, eat something new! It is inexpensive, nourishing, and great for your soul. Post pictures and share your food trips so that more people will be inspired to enjoy eating new treats as well!

Blood Donation # 2

Yesterday, I was fortunate to have the time to give blood for the second time. I felt awesome during my first blood donation last Christmas season. Blood donation is a fulfilling way to share one’s blessings, especially now that I am euthyroid. 

Please consult your physician first before donating blood and do know that each donation has a screening process beforehand. It is a case-to-case basis, so be sure to be healthy before going through the process. If you cannot donate blood, there are definitely other ways to share your blessings, like volunteering and buying from social enterprises. 

I knitted while waiting for my turn at the Red Cross. 

I was led to a recliner when it was my turn to donate. 

After reading the guidelines provided by the medical technologist, it was showtime! 

The process was quick and comfortable. Just like last time, I received a free snack afterwards.  

It is a privilege to be a blood donor. I look forward to donating again. If you are healthy and cleared by your doctor from any ailments, please consider donating blood! It is one of the most rewarding acts of kindness you can do in your life. 

Knitting with Diane

Yesterday, I visited my late high school friend Diane. I try to have coffee with her once a month (sometimes more often than that), and I usually spend time at the columbarium to catch-up. 

I started my day with a hearty KFC breakfast. I then proceeded to the columbarium after my meal. I setup my chair and took out my knitting, coffee, and current novel. 

I also left her a Banaue keychain from my Knitting Adventure last month. I left her our customary post-it as well.  

It was fun to knit with Diane, as I read my novel. Yes, I can now read and knit at the same time!  

I hope that you will also find time to visit your late loved ones. Spending time with Diane has been therapeutic and comforting, and I always find myself with her whenever I need to sort out some things. I just wanted to knit with her, and it was serenely delightful. I will definitely do this again.  

Loving Vincent

I watched Loving Vincent again at the UP Cine Adarna. It was a solo movie date on a weekday, and the gloomy weather set the tone for the movie. 

I had to watch it again because a) it is showing at UP Film Center this February, b) I can’t say no to Van Gogh, and c) it is a visually arresting movie.  

Here is Cine Adarna’s schedule for February 2018. Tickets are Php150 each. 

I had a lovely solo movie date. 

The seats at Cine Adarna are mall-standard and comfortable. 

I had Rodic’s tapsilog for dinner.  

And for dessert, I had fresh strawberry graham shake at Roma and Charlie. 

If you want to unwind at an affordable price, drop by Cine Adarna and eat at UP Shopping Center. It is beginning to be my favorite campus.  

Metal Health

Last Saturday, I went on a tour at the San Sebastián Minor Basilica. As a heritage conservation advocate, I am constantly on the lookout for experiences which could enable me to witness restoration efforts first-hand. Since the church is undergoing extensive restoration, I joined the tour to help support the worthwhile endeavor. 

This beautiful church is located in Quiapo, Manila. It is the first and only all-metal building in the Philippines. 

It is important to help save the basilica as it is already a part of our history. 

I was there early, so I got to roam around the church and warmed up to my beautiful surroundings.  

I also bought merch from their souvenir tent. Proceeds from the sale of their Save San Sebastián merch go to the restoration fund.  

There was no shortage of beauty in this metal wonder. 

The lighting of the chandeliers signaled the beginning of our tour.  

We began our tour by testing out the metallic surfaces on the church. I used my souvenir magnet, and yes, the basilica really is all-metal. 

This is Ysabel. She is the one-woman restoration tour guide and tech person behind the cause.  

I opened the doors and it was fascinating to see the church with awe. 

Ysabel gave us a sense of place with vintage photographs from another era.  

All the walls, columns, and ceiling panels were painted to conceal the rivets and metal parts. This church is a beautiful masterpiece in concealment.  

The restoration is being undertaken by an international team of experts in their own fields.  

As you can see, the paintings on the wall are fading fast. 

They need to be restored using the latest techniques so that the grandeur of this basilica can be preserved and brought to life. 

Our tour continued to the choir loft, where the best view of the house could be enjoyed. 

I relaxed a bit on the pews and appreciated the majestic view. 

The gothic architecture resonated with my steampunk leanings, I must admit. 

We then proceeded to the upper levels, where the concealment ends. Here, the rivets are clearly visible, and the metal parts are bare. 

Even the hidden upper levels are filled with unexpected beauty.  

I found the upper part of the ceiling beautiful. It reminded me of a ship. 

This is a sample of the restoration undertakings.  

As you can see, rust is the enemy of a metal structure. This is why it is crucial that this gem gets restored stat.  

The dome is a piece of beauty amidst the urban skyline.  

I enjoyed this, and I highly recommend that you join one of their Saturday tours! It is a chance to appreciate history, architecture, engineering, and art all in one morning. Plus, you will help support the restoration as well. 

Join the tour, take pictures, and experience Manila as it should be- with a renewed appreciation for our rich heritage. 

Soul Flower, Co.

I dropped by the Soul Flower, Co. studio along Malingap, Quezon City to resurrect an old bling. It was good to see Janina (silversmith/designer/teacher/GirlBoss) of Studio 925 (and Soul Flower, Co. along with Pat, who is her fellow girlboss, and she teaches leathercrafting) again after almost a year. I wanted a bespoke piece and she is one of the easiest people to talk to. 

If you have old silver jewelry that needs redesigning, bring to to Janina. She’s your girl for breathing new life into your accessory game.  

Now, going back to the studio. How dreamy is their display? 

I want all these bags.  

Everything is handmade with love and design thinking.  

They also sell supplies, findings, hardware, leather, and silver! They also offer studio rental and workshops which are announced monthly on social media. 

I can’t wait to see the finished product!

If you want to learn silversmithing, leathercrafting, or simply want to buy handmade, do swing by the Soul Flower, Co. studio. It is an inspiring space and you will definitely find a piece to bring home with you- whether you’re into quality genuine leather or jewelry that lasts a lifetime.  

January Coffee with Diane

Every month, I try to visit my late friend Diane at the columbarium where her remains have been laid to rest. I make it an event for the both of us. 

I started my day with an early morning walk.  

Then, I had a streetfood classic for brekkie: chilimansi (chili calamansi) pancit canton with a huge bun and sunny-side up egg.  

It was a breakfast that Diane would approve of. I eventually turned it into a pancit sandwich. 

I was still hungry so I had a small serving of taho for Php10. It was the perfect ending to a blissful morning meal.  

I wrapped up my walk and bought my favorite French Vanilla from a nearby convenience store. Diane and I loved to have coffee back in the day so I still continue the tradition to this day.  

I finally reached the columbarium. I set up a cozy nook in front of Diane’s vault.  

I usually bring an ebook or a book, my Traveler’s Notebook, and the aforementioned coffee.  

Being with Diane can be a time-warp as I enjoy reading by her side. 

I also share with her my latest food trips and sketches (which are usually of food).  

I also update her with the latest on my life, my blog, and my fitness journey. She used to be a fitness buff at some point so I would like to think that she is cheering me on from wherever she is now! 

I read The First to Know by Abigail Johnson during my visit. The protagonist is a softball player who’s growing up and discovering love, and I think Diane would have enjoyed this too. 

I was comforted by a brown butterfly which flew in front of me as I was reading and sipping my coffee.   

Hi Diane! 🦋  

If you want some quiet time to read and simply relax, why don’t you visit your late loved ones every now and then? Turn it into a mini event so you will be motivated to do so. Who knows, you might also get to know yourself better through the loving gaze of your loved ones!

Toasted Creativity

Last weekend, I surprised myself by returning to creative journaling.  

Those who know me well are aware of my passion for creative journaling. I enjoy drawing and watercoloring my food, and I am also into brush lettering. However, some recent changes in my personal life have required me to step back from my hobby. I needed to focus on self-care and self-compassion first.  

I was not sure if I could draw and paint again, until I finally had the urge to do so after my killer lunch. 

I ate my favorite toasted naked longganisa from Breakfast Bin. As always, I had it with brown rice, egg, and coffee. It was heavenly. ​

It was also the perfect inspiration for creativity. ​

By the time I got home, I was itching to draw my meal. I retrieved my Traveler’s Journal, pens, watercolors, and waterbrush.  

It was time to journal.  

By the time I was done, I felt alive again.  

I am back, friends! 

I am no longer dormant. Here’s to a creatively journaled year ahead!

Pasta and Pancakes

I usually go to Brewing Point Cafe along Congressional Avenue whenever I am craving for a generous serving of pasta. And they never disappoint! My favorite on their menu is the vegetarian pasta, which is a medley of colorful, tasty goodness. I do not even miss meat whenever I devour this. I finish it off with their Nespresso americano.  

For dinner, I passed by a nearby 7-Eleven and bought the pancakes and Fiesta Ham meal to go. I was not expecting it to be the bomb. So imagine my surprise when I finally microwaved it and tasted it.

OH MY GOODNESS IT ​IS DELICIOUS I AM TELLING YOU. 

Do not let the underrated aesthetics fool you. It is a beautiful plate of Christmas feels. I swear it is worth more than Php59. I will definitely order it again. ​

Oh, and I finished it off with coffee. Again. Because the best meals always have to be with coffee. ​

Faith and Arrows

I am the type of girl who follows rituals. One of them is my weekly (I try my best!) visit to St. Clare Monastery along Katipunan. I offer eggs and lift up my intentions for the week. 

After visiting St. Clare, I proceeded to DMZ Archery Range to shoot arrows. I liked their Gwen Stefani x Justin Timberlake playlist during my visit. 

Also, I adored my bow which had my lucky number 13 on it! 

I was able to have fun and release all my stress during the game.  

Archery also helps in improving my posture. 

I think I have a favorite sport now. 

I look forward to more routine days which in time will be productive habits. Mindfulness has taught me to pursue the good and the meaningful. I sure hope am doing a great job this 2018!

Boxing Day 2017

Yesterday, I celebrated Boxing Day by myself. I got accustomed to going out on the British holiday, which was a habit I developed from my years working in an Australian company. I treated myself to a new water bottle from Starbucks, then I had lunch at Bonchon. Then, I watched Siargao  on a recliner seat. It was a feel-good movie with stunning cinematography. I capped off my day at the mall with my monthly pixie trim. I tried a new salon, and I enjoyed the experience! 

I look forward to more simple joys and me-time days. Surrounding myself with positive vibes is crucial to offset the negativity I have harbored in the past months. For now, I am breathing in the good and immersing myself in self-care.  

Beer and Pasta

Yesterday, I had beer and pasta with my grandfather. It is always fun to hang out with him as he is inherently wise. I got to listen to his stories and it was fascinating to hear his take on my challenges. I am thankful to have him rooting for me and I will keep his advice in mind now that I am going through transitions in my life. 

I recommend quality time with grandparents because it is never going to be boring with them. Spend time with them while you can, and listen to their words of wisdom. You won’t regret it.  

Day 15: Random Surprise

Ortigas has been my area for thirteen years now. I have experienced most of my adult milestones here. I also thought that I have explored most of the area already, as I tend to frequent the more quiet spots of the district to reflect and recharge.

So imagine my surprise when I stumbled upon this relic of Padre Pio right across Shangri-la Plaza. I have been walking by this area for a long time and this was the first time that I saw this serene corner. I guess I was too busy dealing with my personal priorities. I could have also been unprepared to handle this random presence of one of my favorite saints’ earthly remnants. It is now that I am moving forward that I have been surprised with a relic in a holy place which I will definitely frequent in the coming weeks.  

Random surprises make life more interesting. I believe that they show up when we least expect it, and when we are already prepared to welcome such gifts from the Universe. I did not belong to a healthy situation back in the day, so it was probably the reason why I never saw this spot in my district. Now that I have taken the stand to move on, I was blessed with this relic which is close to my usual locations. It is partially hidden from view, but not totally obscured from the public.

I hope that more people will pray in front of Padre Pio’s relic, as I felt stronger after praying there.

Faith is a constant. However, random surprises make the belief in an unseen God stronger. Now that I am on my self-improvement project, I am teaching myself to embrace the unknown with a can-do attitude rather than a limiting perspective. That way, I can welcome more positive random surprises and weed out the negative right from the start.