Cafe Latte

Lately, it has been raining everyday during the afternoon. I usually have a cup of coffee to wake myself up during this time. The other day, I had coffee and an oatmeal cookie at Cinema ‘76 Cafe at Anonas after donating my hair. It gave me all the feels as it was emo weather and I had comfort food.

I highly recommend this cafe because it offers al fresco dining, affordable snacks and coffee, and of course, OPM music on repeat. Do check this out on your next cafe trip! You won’t be disappointed.

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! 

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

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

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

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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. 

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

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

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

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I got my legs waxed...

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

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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. 

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. 

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The whole process of having my hair shampooed... 

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...cut, blow-dried... 

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...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.  

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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. 

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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. 

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I ate dessert first...

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...and later had a burrito in between performances. 

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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. 

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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.