2020 Fitness Goals

This year, I do not have grand fitness goals or exercise challenges for myself. Rather, the plan is to stay consistent by working out daily. Yes, every single day.

Consistency is better than out of this world goals or unattainable records. I simply want to continue what I have already started years ago. Exercising daily is key to maintaining a healthy body, mind, and soul. When I am fit, I am able to balance my priorities and also see clearly as far as other aspects of my life are concerned.

Fitness has also enabled me to try new activities with no fear. My love for cardio means that I can walk for miles without breaking a sweat, and continue being a foodie without fear of gaining weight. My confidence has also been reinforced by my daily workouts, as I have no self-doubt on what my body can do and achieve.

I am also aware of my limitations, and I am working on my shortcomings. My workouts keep me focused on what’s important so that I can improve, day by day.

This year, I will continue being my own fitness inspiration. The goal is to burn calories daily and be better than who I was yesterday, so that I can continue enjoying the present which will lead to a brighter and more stable future.

Rizal Day 2019

I’m one of those Rizal die-hard fans who visit Luneta on Rizal Day. Yesterday was no exception, as I made the trip to visit my favorite hero.

This year, I hired one of the onsite photographers to take my photo by his final resting place.

As is my custom, I visited the site of his execution.

Then, I decided to date myself at the Luneta Hotel for late lunch. I wrote about this hotel in college as it is known for its French Renaissance architecture. Today, it proudly stands amidst the modern buildings of Manila.

It was the perfect setting for my solo date. I had the truffle pasta, and of course, San Miguel Pale Pilsen.

For dessert, I had the hotel’s famous sampaguita ice cream and coffee. Everything was delicious!

I feel thankful for all the blessings I have received this year. I am optimistic that the new decade will bring forth more positive energy and love for me and my family.

Happy new year!

Insecure No More

I just realized a few days ago that I finally got over my insecurities. I used to hate my bushy eyebrows. Now that it’s on-trend, I don’t tweeze them anymore. I used to hate my skin. I have since stopped wearing foundation and loved my imperfect face. I used to hate my thick lips. Now, I celebrate them with bright lipstick.

I guess it comes with age, as I am already 33. It was a long and winding road to being secure with myself. Strangely, getting piercings on my rook, helix, and conch have enabled me to embrace my own edgy style.

By wearing less makeup, staying fit and healthy, and maintaining a low key style, I became more at peace with my imperfections.

Here are some ways to begin feeling secure with yourself:

1. Wear less makeup.

2. Exercise daily.

3. Stick to a uniform wardrobe. I stuck to some neutrals and that made everyday dressing effortless.

4. Do something that will make you feel beautiful. For me, it was getting piercings!

5. Always stay hydrated and take good care of your skin.

Life is too short to stay insecure! Love yourself, and your confidence will surely open doors for you.

Knitting Anniversary

Today is my knitting anniversary! It’s been a year since my fateful Knitting Adventure at the Banaue Rice Terraces. It was where I first learned to knit. The lesson wasn’t easy for me, and I did struggle at first. But with a lot of practice, I did get the hang of it. And I even re-learned how to crochet along the way!

To celebrate this important milestone, I crocheted and knitted this infinity shawl using chunky yarns from my favorite notions store, The Attic Yarn and Craftery. The ladies behind this local shop has become my friends, and it is touching how this friendship has also become a source of strength and inspiration for me to keep going. 

My knitting and crochet abilities are in line with my goal to diversify myself through continuous learning of skills. You may be wondering how this connects to my goal to work in a corporate setting. Well, knitting and crochet has taught me patience, perseverance, resilience (especially when I would drop a stitch and have to start over!), creativity, and imagination. I have also learned these skills from scratch through workshops (like the advanced crochet one I attended with Mayown last year). If I can train my mind and hands to manipulate yarn, needles, and hooks, then I’m sure that I am ready to learn new programs, business platforms, and skills. 

I have also started a new scarf using the knitting needles that came with my kit at Banaue. Using these 6mm bamboo needles again is humbling, as I recall the awkward stitches that I have made 365 days ago in the mountains. Now, I am in my room in the city, with pop music blaring in the background. I have yarn from Pasig, the yarn bowl that I gifted myself with on Valentine’s Day, my first knitting needles, and the determination to keep going. I have amazed myself with how far I’ve come in my creative journey. 

I know that this is only the beginning. 

Back to Me

Yesterday, I bought Maine Mendoza’s MAC Maker lipstick in her custom shade, @mainedcm. I think it’s adorable that she named it after her Instagram handle. And in fairness, it is a wearable nude shade. I am in between morena and mestiza, so finding the perfect nude can be quite a challenge. This lippie gives me a subtle pop of color without washing my face out. I feel proud to wear Pinay MAC Maker’s lipstick, and in so little color, I feel as if I have returned to myself. 

Like all MAC lipsticks, the matte formula has lasted me through two meals and a coffee break. I am very happy with my new lippie!  

Crafting My Love Story

Yesterday, I started my Saturday with a workout...

...pancit and lumpia for breakfast...

 ...and coffeenut (coffee brewed in coconut water and served with coconut milk and coco sugar) and crocheting. 

Then, I bought a new project bag from the weekend bazaar at my local park. The smallest pouch bag for my crochet projects costs only P35. 

I got one in this cheery pineapple print. 

I strolled around the tropical garden inside the park. 

After lunch, I proceeded to the Singles Recollection hosted by The Feast Quezon City community. 

I enjoyed worshipping...

 ...and knitting!

I was impressed with the effort and love that went into the food prep. I mean, look at those handwritten post-its!

I got this one, because it is so me. I believe that each day is a new opportunity!

I discovered my love for crocheting and knitting while I became single a few months ago. I have also been doing creative journaling through food illustration.

My handmade lifestyle has cultivated self-love, and I have never looked back. Crafting my love story starts in affirming and validating myself, one creative output at a time. I know I am ready to love again because I know how to make myself happy in the first place. For now, I am focusing on being myself, and sharing my story to you all. 

Crafting Potential

Yesterday, I bought yarns from one of my go-to handmade shops, The Craft Central. I did not have any particular project in mind. I simply wanted the colors I got and filled my basket. 

I do believe in surrounding myself with things that fill my heart with joy. Knitting using yarns in colors that I like makes me giddy, and it helps clear my mind. 

I also believe in shopping small and independent, that is why I frequent craft shops, indie businesses, and local brands. The yarns I bought yesterday were from The Attic Yarn and Craftery, and just like The Craft Central, it fulfills all three aforementioned qualities. 

Simply put, having a handmade lifestyle makes me smile!

If you would like to learn a craft of two, here are the upcoming workshops at The Craft Central SM North Edsa:

I hope that you will also find your craft, and enjoy shopping for supplies every now and then! It is good for your soul. 

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!

Sunday Sunset

I crave for Mister Kabab every now and then, and I am lucky that I live close to their flagship branch. I always order their special chicken chelo kebab, and last Sunday, it served as my early dinner.  

I put lots of yogurt sauce on my entire order! It is still so good and affordable after all these years.  

After my kabab dinner, I returned to UP for a brisk walk. I was greeted by this sunset.  

It was magical to have witnessed this sunset last Sunday at one of my favorite places. I hope to catch more sunsets in the future, as I burn calories and listen to upbeat music.  

Rediscovering Crochet

I began my day with a Vietnamese brunch at Pho Hoa. I had the chili shrimps rice meal, with coffee (not pictured). I enjoyed my delicious meal and I was even able to squeeze in some knitting on the side. 

I also rediscovered crochet, which I taught to myself when I was in college using a book I bought in the US. I recently reoriented myself with the basics through YouTube, and I must say that I was happy to crochet again as I finished an oversized cowl. 

I chose a milk cotton blend yarn in clay. 

The cowl matches most of my clothes, and is perfect for air conditioned venues. 

I also crocheted a headband and water bottle cozy using scrap yarn from my Banaue Knitting Adventure. 

I was delightful to decorate my Starbucks water bottle with colorful yarn!

There is quiet joy in crafting, and these days, you will either see me knitting or crocheting, with a cup of coffee waiting for me in between stitches. I hope that you will also find a hobby that will fulfill you and allow your mind to drift away. For now, I will get back to my needles and continue creating!

I Knitted An Infinity Scarf!

I have been knitting an infinity scarf for the past few days. I brought my needles and yarn with me to coffee, lunch, dinner, the mall, and even to bed. 

Knitting has been a relaxing process, and I prefer freestyle knitting because I do not want to depend on patterns. I want knitting to be a fluid and zen experience to clear my mind and encourage thought processing. 

I finished my infinity scarf this morning, and I can say that it was a rewarding experience. I used yarn which is ideal for our tropical climate. I intend to use it while hanging out in air-conditioned locations. 

True to form, I chose a neutral color combination which will work with any outfit. I am happy to finish something tangible using the skill I acquired from my Banaue Knitting Adventure.  

I intend to continue knitting because it makes me happy! Scarves will always be in style, so I think I will make more in my free time. For now, I look forward to casting on new yarn on my needles and beginning again. 

Beer and Knitting

I recently took up freestyle knitting, and yesterday, I brought my yarn and needles to Cibo. I ordered beer and truffle pasta. While waiting for my lunch, I knitted mindlessly, as I mindfully processed my thoughts. 

I was lost in my thoughts when my pasta was brought to my table. Knitting has become my therapy because I get to think, reflect, and relax. It is also a convenient craft to take with me wherever I need to be.  

My truffle pasta and beer lunch was superb!

After lunch, I went to The Craft Central to purchase a couple more yarns and a pack of stitch markers. 

They also had this crafting nook that they use for workshops. Since the shop did not have anything planned for that day, I knitted on their table while listening to their Ed Sheeran playlist. 

That was a quietly fun day. I look forward to knitting in more places. 

Calado Earrings

I have always been a supporter of locally-made items, handmade businesses, and social enterprises. 

These three factors all make up Calado, a heritage jewelry brand owned by Tricia Ancheta. I met her during my Banaue trip, and I was fascinated with her handmade earrings once I viewed them online. Her merchandise are handmade by plateros or silversmiths in Dauis, Bohol. These craftspeople have inherited the art of jewelry-making from their ancestors, who learned the skill during the Spanish regime. 

The jewelry are all made of sterling silver, with the option of having them dipped in 24k. Since my style leans toward edgy and minimalist, Tricia personally helped me select the pair which would suit my taste. Her suggestion, the Mirasol spiral hoop earrings in sterling silver, was perfect and I bought them with no regrets. 

I love the premium packaging and classy presentation of my purchase. 

My Mirasol hoops looks even better in person! Check out the intricate detail, which is a trademark of Dauis jewelry-making. 

My favorite thing about Calado earrings is that they are lightweight! Tricia wanted to present a brand of earrings that she could comfortably wear (and buy, as the prices are reasonable for the amazing quality of the pieces). 

The story of Calado is included inside their jewelry boxes. 

I am delighted to own a pair of Calado earrings and I hope that more ladies will discover this local, handmade, and social-enterprise-made brand! I will rock these earrings in my everyday life and fancier events. 

The earrings make me feel beautiful and classy! 

Beyond Finding Myself

The days following my Banaue trip felt like a dream. I felt as if it was difficult to exist after such a beautiful trip, so I pushed myself to go to my usual venues for inspo. 

My first stop was Cinema Centenario to watch Ang Nawawala. It was a film that spoke to me, because a) my close friend from high school passed away a decade ago, b) I am currently adulting yet still living my dream of having a handmade, local-love, art-loving lifestyle, and c) the soundtrack featured the best of OPM rock from my growing-up years. 

Also, it was my first time to have a cinema all to myself. The experience was surreal (it was unplanned and it just so happened I was the only viewer for that showing). 

I personally adore how the microcinema displays film props within the premises. These suitcases were prominently featured in the film.  

The next day, I visited the Vargas Museum at UP Diliman for a walk-through of their Beyond Myself: Filipino Migrants’ Investments in Philippine Futures exhibition. 

There was a postcard table which lets visitors write to OFW participants in Hong Kong and London.  

This installation is entitled Padala. It features typical items which OFW’s send back to their relatives in the Philippines.  

This frame featured a bookshelf which an OFW has proudly saved up for. Books make her happy, and I imagine that it makes her job bearable. The Danielle Steel novel is mine and I just had to place it on the frame. 

Our walk-through was a poignant reminder that Filipino migrant workers are not robots. They have their own lives abroad. They are capable of fighting for their rights, creating art, thriving in social circles, and bringing joy into their lives.  

There was a clever part of the exhibit which resembles a videoke. It was playing the Ama Namin or the Our Father, as OFW’s make time for Sunday Mass. Some churches abroad have Filipino priests and masses, and this is a strong reminder of home. 

Here, the paintings done by some OFW artists were featured.  

This wall cleverly shows a typical apartment row where OFW’s are employed. It is a stark reminder of their existence and ingenuity to thrive in such an environment. 

We had a short talk from a visiting professor from Singapore.  

After the insightful tour and talk, I wrote a postcard for an OFW.  

I then moved on to the Living Architecture exhibition at the ground floor of the museum. 

After my museum tour, I went to a nearby mall for some bread, coffee, and a showing of The Post.  

Those days back in the city taught me that there are meaningful experiences nearby, and I can make them part of my narrative. I enjoy going to museums and watching movies because they show me a different perspective of the world. I just need to let life take me further and by trusting the process, I am learning more about myself. 

Fitness Goals at Banaue

I am now back at Manila, but my heart is still in Banaue. Looking back on my trip gives me joy as I recall all the happy memories during that trip. My group may have only spent three days there, but it felt like we stayed there longer because we did plenty of things together. I am grateful to have met new friends among the locals and within my tour group. I feel blessed that Knitting Expedition has organized a special tour to the rice terraces. It was truly worth it!

Working out is already part of my lifestyle. While I did not prepare for this trip in particular, I did find myself enjoying my daily brisk walks at a nearby park. I also continued doing Zumba and cardio exercises at home. Keeping fit has enabled me to survive the trip with ease.  

As I share with you these photos taken during my last day at this magical place, I hope that you too will be inspired to travel to a destination you have always wanted to visit. I hope that you will also integrate exercise into your daily life. And while there is no way to determine which destination will truly bring you joy, I hope that you will find that special venue which could reignite your dreams and inspire you to envision a better life for yourself. 

When I was still planning for this trip, the few people who knew about it worriedly asked me if I was doing this to find myself. It is a popular travel theme after all. While I do not question people who travel for this reason, I have made it clear from the start that I did not go to Banaue to find myself. I was a research assistant to Mitzie Icasiano more than a decade ago, and it was because of her studies in Ifugao culture that I found fascination, innate joy, and yes, I found myself. I already did that many years ago. This trip is merely a realization of a longtime desire to see Ifugao culture up close, and what better way to do that than through a tour which supports the local knitting community and tourism industry.  

These photos of me with the majestic Banaue Rice Terraces were taken as a tribute to the rich Ifugao culture, and the joy I found in studying it. By keeping fit and enjoying the whole tour, I was able to realize my dream to travel to Banaue. And by becoming my own “fitspiration”, I kept myself going. 

I hope that you too will find your Banaue. May your heart be filled with happiness beyond this month of love, and may the coming years be kind to all of us. May God bless us all. 

Gnocchi Hearts Day!

 Buon San Valentino!

Yesterday, I turned thirty-one and a half years old. I celebrated Valentine’s in advance as well since February 14 is Ash Wednesday.  

I had lunch with my family at Bellini’s Cubao X. Imagine my surprise and glee when I saw that their menu contains gnocchi !

I simply had to have their spinach gnocchi. I mean, it’s Valentine’s!

We started with this pizza. It was delicious.  

Finally, I had my gnocchi and beer. You have no idea how long I’ve been looking for delicious gnocchi in Manila. 

It was yummy!

For dessert, I had a slice of their delectable orange cake. It was the perfect ending to a lovely meal.  

Also had their house dessert wine.  

And since this was the setting of one of my favorite movies, One More Chance, I had to have some photos by the famous table. 

Basha (Bea Alonzo’s character) has been my style icon for years! 

John Lloyd and Bea forever.  

I had a heavenly lunch at a memorable place! Thank you Bellini’s for bringing my gnocchi dreams to life! 

Sam Lucas, 31 1/2, single and happy! 

February Coffee with Diane

I started my weekend with an Ebe Dancel concert last Saturday at Trinoma. I appreciate his music because it reminds me of the best days of my college life. I had all the feels as he sang my favorites, such as Tulog Na and Burnout. 

The next morning, I did some brisk walking at UP. 

There was a color fun run, so I had the chance to peruse their pink powder. 

I had my usual ice cream sandwich: avocado and cheese!

And since it was a Sunday, my strawberry taho vendor was there to dish out this sweet dessert. 

I had to deal with some personal matters, so I was hungry by noon. I drove to Breakfast Bin for my beloved toasted naked longganisa. 

But first, I went twinning with the drinking glass.  

Finally, it was time to devour my lunch.  

I listened to some pop music while enjoying my slow Sunday meal.  

After lunch, I found two teen girls selling balloons. I bought a heart one for Diane, and I had my photo taken while holding their merchandise.  

I have always wanted to do this! 

Confession: I do buy balloons every now and then to spruce up my room. I’m forever a kid at heart! 

Then, I went back to UP to burn my lunch.  

After my afternoon walk, I bought French Vanilla coffee from a convenience store.  

And then, I delivered my Valentine’s treats to Diane. 

I tied her balloon around her stuffed flowers.  

I also got her a bracelet with a meaningful saying from Papemelroti. I hung it around her bud vase. 

As always, being with Diane was a time warp. I spent some quiet time with her. 

Before I knew it, it was time for me to go to my next engagement.  

Spending time with Diane gives me a sense of peace and tranquillity. Whenever I felt sad in high school and college, I would always run to her for advice and comfort. Now that I’m already thirty-one, I still do so. I am lucky to have her in good times and in bad. Like me, she was an only child. She knows how it is to cheer oneself up. Her memory inspires me to continue doing so. Her life motivates me to keep going.  

Thank you Diane! I will see you next month.  

Mac and Matcha

I have always wanted to eat at Le Petit Soufflé, but I never had the chance to do so.  

Until now. 

I finally had the opportunity to eat at their newly-opened branch at Mega Fashion Hall. I was fresh from the Book Binge Bazaar, and I was hungry! 

Once I saw their dreamy window, I knew I had to enter their lovely restaurant. 

I was welcomed by an interesting menu. 

I settled for Just Mac and Cheese and a hot matcha latte. While waiting for my order, I snapped some photos. 

I was delighted to sort of match my drink!

My mac and cheese was served after a few minutes, and I asked the staff to take photos of me with their dreamy interiors. It is so pretty. 

Their mac and cheese is one of the best I’ve ever had. The cheese was perfect and not cloying. It was a grown-up version of a childhood favorite. 

Plus, it goes well with their delicious matcha.  

It’s as yummy as it looks!

Everything appeals to me. 

My solo lunch at Le Petit Soufflé was a memorable one. I do recommend this place for your next lunch out! And while you’re there, take pictures, savor the food, and appreciate your surroundings. It is the ideal oasis in the middle of a busy shopping mall. 

Book Binge Friday

Yesterday, I went to the Book Binge Bazaar at Megatrade Hall. It was a Friday and I needed some new books, so it was practically a no-brainer. 

But first, I took some selfies next to these adorable balloons which matched my dress! 

I went there after lunch so my commute would be more chill. I got there at around 1:30PM. 

There were so many bibliophiles!

Crowded book fairs make me so happy! 

I got a rolling basket and got five books from the P275 area.  

This was my haul! 

Being surrounded by books makes me smile.  

This was the line to the cashier. It took me around half an hour to reach the finish line.  

I enjoyed my shopping spree because I got a delightful selection of lifestyle books. I can’t wait to read them and I hope my book adventure will give me good luck this Year of the Dog!

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.