Working Girl

Hello! My name is Sam, and I run a Human Nature Online Store! It is my main hustle, especially now that we still have the global pandemic upon us. The products I sell are 100% Made in the Philippines, using natural ingredients.

I am proud of my business because it enables me to earn, while also helping the workers who are employed by Human Nature.

Please support my small business by buying now! Your support means the world to me as it keeps me financially independent. My business also ensures that have enough resources to write more content for this blog, and to thrive during these difficult times!

Thank you in advance, and may God bless you!

ECQ Essentials

The Enhanced Community Quarantine or ECQ has been challenging for all of us. We have been spoilt for choice when it comes to activities and events pre-pandemic, so spending the whole day at home could be daunting for many of us. As our frontliners battle the Covid-19 virus at the hospitals and essential workers keep our communities up and running, let us continue to stay at home to flatten the curve. And let me make life a little bit easier for you by delivering natural toiletries and home essentials straight to your doorstep via my Human Nature online shop.

Not only can you shop my favorites such as our shampoo bar and hand sanitizer, you will also support the livelihood of our amazing employees. And you will also help me bounce back with every purchase you make! My small business enables me to stay afloat with essential products, and I hope that you will buy your self-care needs from my shop.

Thank you in advance, and I hope to see you on my online store soon!

Human Nature Fan

I recently went to the Human Nature Flagship Store to purchase some orders. My client lives in an area inaccessible by the courier, so I did the shipping myself. These small gestures of kindness go a long way during the quarantine. A bag of natural toiletries really makes a difference in making someone’s day. If you need anything for your personal and home care needs, please support my Human Nature Online Shop by clicking here!

My bestsellers include our shampoo bar, which I personally love. It makes my hair smooth and shiny! Another bestseller is our strengthening conditioner, and of course, our cleansing bars.

Do support my store! Together, let us make each day under quarantine count, naturally.

Mentoring Lunch

Yesterday, I had the time to do some brisk walking at the UP campus. 

I was able to burn some calories before my lunch at Sunnies Cafe. I got to do some crocheting before meeting with my friends.  

I had a lovely lunch with my uni mentor Mitzie and her niece Maiko. It was nice to catch up with friends after my dad’s recent passing. 

No visit to Sunnies Cafe is complete without some selfies in their famous washroom. 

I got to buy Sunnies Face’s new Airblush after lunch. 

I also got to offer eggs at St. Clare Monastery. 

I bought carioca, a local street food consisting of fried sticky rice. It was a delicious afternoon snack. 

Before going to bed, I brushed my teeth using this bamboo toothbrush that I bought from social enterprise Rags 2 Riches. 

I know that by continuing my passions and meeting my friends from time to time, I can carry on with life after the storm. 

IFEX 2019

Yesterday was the fourth and last day of my stint as a NAIA Buyer Services Representative for CITEM. It was a productive gig, and I am thankful for the chance to serve our country by smiling and assisting VIP passengers. 

It was a privilege to hear Sunday mass at the Terminal 2 chapel. 

After mass, I ate Minute Burger’s pizza burger for brekkie. It was so good! It went well with Jollibee’s surprisingly flavorful brewed coffee. 

After airport duties, I rode a bus, train, and a tuktuk to the World Trade Center for IFEX 2019, the country’s premier food expo!

I got to eat, drink, and appreciate all the hard work I have contributed for the past four days. I am very proud to be Filipino, and it makes me happy to see all these exhibitors bring the best of Filipino cuisine to the world. 

I made sure to buy straw bags from Crafter’s Joy, a Pangasinan-based social enterprise that provides livelihood to local women weavers. 

I am excited to use these straw bags! The planter was for my mom. 

It was an honor to serve our country for the past four days, and to sample the best Filipino food and drinks at IFEX. I look forward to next year’s expo, and I hope to serve the country again in the future. 

Mabuhay! 

Borealis Crystals

I recently ordered a bespoke ring from local jewelry company Borealis Crystals. It is a PWD-run online jewelry boutique which I have been stalking on Instagram for quite some time now. I have been privileged to earn some money from freelance work, and I set aside some of my pay to have a custom ring made for me. 

After a month of communicating with C & J, the couple behind this homegrown brand, I finally got the pink ring of my dreams. 

I love that they added a couple of Flat Tops with my order for a touch of whimsy.  

My pink tourmaline is professionally-set in rose gold. I requested for a comfort-fit band, and I have been wearing this daily for almost a week now. I can definitely say that it lives up to its comfort-fit name, as it is really comfortable. I was able to write at work and the ring felt light on my fingers. I think it helps that C is into calligraphy, so she knows that a ring must not get in the way when one is writing. 

I love supporting social enterprises, and businesses that empower PWD’s. I am happy that I can wear something that’s both handmade and bespoke everyday. What’s more, I get to wear a ring with a story that’s more radiant than its innate sparkle.  

I highly recommend this brand, and I hope that you can check out their Instagram page for their latest on-hand designs. You may also order bespoke jewelry. Production time is from 1-2 months, depending on the design. May they help you realize the jewelry of your dreams! 

Hope and Hunger

Okay, I’m serving you some real talk today. I had difficulty starting my car right before my GK Enchanted Farm tour last Saturday. I was left my car at a safe parking spot and joined my friends at the van we rented. I was able to drive to dinner at Breakfast Bin, and back home afterwards. Starting the car was a struggle, but I made it home. 

Fast forward to yesterday morning, and I couldn’t start my car at home. My battery is dead.  

I realized that how fortunate was that I was able to go home and not have car problems on the road- or in the middle of Maginhawa Street, post-dinner. God still looks after me after all.  

After hearing mass with my family yesterday, I ate this glorious chicken ala Kiev from Conti’s. Then, I proceeded to my derma appointment. I took Grab coming home. 

I wore my new handmade earrings from GK Enchanted Farm social enterprise Hiblahi. As always, this is not a sponsored post. I simply like supporting social enterprises and wearing local pieces with pride. 

I am lucky that I was able to go home safely. Here’s to a restored faith that enables me to hope for better things and a hunger for opportunities! 

Social Saturday

Yesterday, I bought my personal toiletries from the Human Nature Flagship Store. I also bought some orders for my customers. For all your natural personal care needs, just buy from my Human Nature Online Store! Thank you!  

I also claimed my Dealer ID from the girls at the store.  

I finally got my own Human Nature matte lipstick too! This is much talked about as the packaging is mostly paper. Here I am in the shade Warmth.  

I indulged in some pasta for lunch at the Vertis North weekend market. 

Then, I met up with my best friend Luti for some froyo at Elait,  

I ordered their strawberry mango cheesecake froyo and it was heavenly as always! 

We also had Fried Chicken Master. 

And for dinner, I had Kimchi Project’s kimchi rice.  

Life is always better with natural products, good food, and great company! 

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. 

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

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

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

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

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

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

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!

Core Advocate Forever

I have been selling Human Nature products for five years now, and I have been an online seller of their natural products this year. My Human Nature online store continues to be a blessing to my life, as I am able to earn extra by selling products which I personally use and have transformed the lives of many Filipinos. Please support my store by making a purchase today!

To my regular customers, and to all of you who have made a purchase by reading my blog entries, thank you! It is because of you that I continue to believe in Human Nature and its effective products. 

More importantly, your support has enabled me to believe in myself. And because of this, I have supported Human Nature’s fundraising initiative for Marawi this Christmas. In exchange for my support, I received this beautiful bracelet by Silverworks.  

My life continues to be blessed, thanks to brands like Human Nature that allow me to give back with every purchase and product sold.  

Walang Iwanan! 

Pixie Dust

Lately, I’ve been handling a lot on my plate. I have to take advantage of the short breaks that I have in each day to eat at drink coffee. 

In this case, I had the cheesy baked penne and brewed coffee from Mister Donut. This combo never fails to uplift me.  

I also got myself this door hanger from Papemelroti. A lot of people have been criticizing me for having a pixie. But I like rocking my hair this way, and I refuse to believe that I have to change my style in order to satisfy what the world wants. 

After all, the things that really matter are faith, trust, and a little pixie dust- that it factor that makes me stand out! 

And lastly, I received this eco bag from Batik Boutique, a social enterprise from Malaysia. You may say that it’s only a simple tote, but I do appreciate being acknowledged for my interest in supporting social entrepreneurs. 

One day, I will find someone who won’t ask me to grow my hair long. I will keep on attracting the right people, because I keep on promoting the things and causes that make me happy. And I will always begin and end my day with good food and coffee, as I get over each challenge with a little pixie dust. 

Warmth in my Heart

Last night, I tried dining at the newly-opened cafe near my house. I had chicken arroz caldo and breads for takeaway. I sat down to savor the warm broth of the porridge, and I felt warmth in my heart. The simple recipe of my dinner, and the knowledge that the cafe is a social enterprise, brought happiness to my soul. 

I enjoyed my dinner, and I will definitely be back to have more meals for a cause!

Core Advocate

Now that I am working full-time, I ensure that my weekends are spent well. I always begin my days with a workout, whether it’s a weekday or the weekend. 

Last Saturday, I was reminded to count my blessings and be myself as I dropped by my usual waxing salon.  

Then, I went to Human Nature to shop for my needs this August. I stocked up on moringa chocolate chip cookies...

 ...had some brewed coffee in the store...

...tried the new bath jelly (which was fun to use!)... 

 ...and treated myself to a bar of Theo and Filo 70% dark chocolate!

I am also a fan of Human Nature’s new initiative to encourage shoppers to bring their own eco bags.  

After shopping, I went to Breakfast Bin for even more coffee and pancakes. 

And then, it was back to Human Nature for me as we celebrated our get-together with my fellow core advocates. 

It was a fun night of potluck eats, karaoke, and friendship!

My Saturday was a relaxing one, because I got to eat, shop, and party for a good cause. I am glad that by supporting Human Nature, I also help Gawad Kalinga communities and provide jobs. I look forward to the rest of my workweek knowing that my weekends are spent with my advocacy. It makes all the hard work worth it.

Hooking, Burning, and Yearning

I started my day by crocheting while waiting for my workout to start. 

Then, I satisfied my craving for cheap pares by having it for breakfast.  

I continued hooking while having cofeenut.  

I later rode the BGC bus (which was efficient and comfortable) to Net Park.  

I took a few selfies  (using self-timer!) at the lobby. I was wearing a scarf that I quickly knitted using chunky yarn and 10mm needles from Dreams Yarnshoppe. 

Then, I proceeded to Manila House...

...for the Katutubo Pop-Up Market!  I bought a woodland garland for my mom from Knitting Expedition, one of my favorite social enterprises. Their stuffed animals and home trimmings were handknit in Ifugao. I also joined their Knitting Adventure at Banaue last February!

I caught up with some of my mom’s friends from the fashion industry (she used to be a ramp model).

I also saw Candy Reyes, Knitting Expedition’s girl boss and master knitter! 

I also looked around the fair. Everything was beautiful. I saw this wallpaper in the premises, and I loved it because it was somewhat related to my crocheting and knitting. 

I sat down for a cuppa. 

And I transferred to Fully Booked to enjoy their sale.

I wrapped up my Sunday with a visit to the PAWS Pet Cafe. My favorite shelter dog Ruff was there! If you want to adopt him, please contact PAWS!

I also saw other PAWS dogs in the cafe.  

I ordered my favorite tapa from The Craft Central Cafe. 

I had a productive Sunday! I worked out, crocheted, and supported my favorite advocacies. The way I see it, is that I get to hope and yearn for a brighter future for myself by sharing my blessings with social enterprises and causes I believe in. I am claiming that more blessings will pour into my life in the coming days, weeks, and months! 

Knit, Nom, Now

I am a firm believer in rising above challenges through action. Lately, I have been dealing with some personal matters which I have already resolved. To celebrate these small wins, I went to Human Nature to transact orders and to have a cup of coffee. 

I am a Human Nature dealer, so if you would like to buy affordable yet high quality natural products, you may order from my online shop!

I used my Knitting Expedition tiyargo bag  to carry all my purchases. I also took another photo because it amuses me how much the social enterprise brands I support complement each other with ease and style.  The coffee beside me in the photo is from Cafe Lugud, my Ifugao bangles are from Natalya Lagdameo, my T’boli bangles are from Nawa, and the location was of course the Human Nature flagship store! All of these brands are social enterprises, so they do not just look good- they also commit to doing good as well 

After shopping, I went to the new Rodic’s branch along Maginhawa with air conditioning! I had tapsilog while knitting. 

After wrapping up all my errands, I bought my dad his favorite yema cake. 

And later that night, I finally finished knitting my first beanie. I knitted it using the magic loop technique. It was also my first time to knit in the round! This is definitely proof that I am willing to learn- and from YouTube, at that!

I am overjoyed with my small wins, and I also feel accomplished to have knitted a beanie! I am truly determined to overcome each challenge with positivity, optimism, and action. Here’s to more small wins and lessons learned along the way!

Knitting Expedition Starter Pack

I have previously shared with you about Knitting Expedition, a social enterprise that employs mothers from Banaue to knit toys, home decor, and now, bags! Their first bag, the Tiyargo (which means summer in Ifugao), was originally meant to be a beach or market tote. Since I am a city girl at heart, I have reinterpreted it as a carry-all, and yesterday, I brought it with me to Human Nature. 

The bag was chic and sturdy enough to house all of my purchases for the month of June. 

It can also stand on its own and hold its shape. For a multitasker, it’s quite a looker too. 

It also matches all my outfits, whether I am shopping in casual clothes, or hauling daily essentials on a work day. The possibilities seem endless for this bag, especially when its owner plans to carry it to opportunities along the way. 

If you also want your own Tiyargo bag, you may check out Knitting Expedition‘s social media pages, such as their well-curated Instagram account. Their website contains their catalog and online store. Do support this business, where every item has been knitted with love. Who knows, it might also encourage you to visit Banaue someday, just as I did!

Human Nature Launch

Yesterday, I attended the magalogue turnover and new product launch at Human Nature, a social enterprise that is close to my heart. The company launched its new anti-dandruff shampoo and reformulated body lotions. They also kicked-off their tenth year anniversary, which is happening this 2018.  

I sell Human Nature products via my online store. Please do support and buy today! The company provides employment to Gawad Kalinga residents and beneficiaries. Plus, the products are affordable and effective. My favorites are the sunflower oil and Radiant Grace moisturizer. 

Of course, a visit to Human Nature is never complete without their free-flowing brewed coffee (on the house!) from social enterprise Cafe Lugud. 

Light snacks were served and this Pinoy pasta was delicious!

I also met Gel of Aurae Natura, a new social enterprise which sells essential oils! Their products look promising, and I love their packaging. 

I continue to be a core advocate for Human Nature because they pay it forward. I have deep respect for a brand that champions the poor and encourages Filipinos to buy local. I hope that you will also buy Human Nature and experience the goodness today!

Calado Oh Na Na

I have recently shared with you my favorite handmade hoop earrings from homegrown brand Calado. My Mirasol spiral hoops were handmade in Dauis, Bohol by artisans who have inherited their skills in filigree and silversmithing from their ancestors. Their artistry can be traced back to the Spanish colonial times, and Calado is committed to preserving their craft through their handmade jewelry line. 

I am impressed with the quality of my earrings, and I feel pretty whenever I wear them. I think one of the reasons why I feel confident whenever I wear brands like Calado is because I am a strong supporter of the local handmade movement. Becoming a conscious consumer has also let me be naturally drawn to goods which were ethically and fairly made.

I am happy that my earrings, just like many of my belongings, adhere to my handmade lifestyle. It is my hope that more people will discover the joys of conscious consumerism and the beauty of each handmade object. I will continue to share my handmade finds here on my blog, so watch out for my lifestyle posts! Together, we can all discover that hands will always be better than machines in terms of quality and heart. 

Human Nature Online Store Launch

My Human Nature Online Store is now LIVE! You may now place your orders on my very own shop. 

I attended the launch of their online store for dealers (like me!), as well as the release of their new hair mist, cooling body cleanser, and odor protect feminine wash. 

My new online store is a side-hustle and passion project which I hope you will support!

By getting my own link, https://humanheartnature.com/buy/speakoutsam, I am able to sell Human Nature products under my name. Human Nature’s website allows convenient payment options such as credit card, PayPal, and bank deposit. In addition to that, delivery will be conducted via Human Nature’s system as well so it is an easy and worry-free business for me. 

​I celebrated the opening of my store with a veggie skillet at Breakfast Bin.

I also went to my favorite waxing salon for some self-care. 

Here’s to more small wins and milestones ahead! I hope that you will buy from my online store soon and experience Human Nature products yourself. Thank you and God bless you!

Hope in a Necklace

I bought a new necklace for myself. My love for jewelry is quite obvious based on my frequent purchases, but I am now a conscious consumer. I focus on bling that is handmade, bought from a social enterprise, and is local. 

Good thing Tayo Collective has a minimalist necklace collection that suits all of the above criteria. Their gold-filled necklaces are classy, barely-there, and ideal for layering with other jewelry. Each piece is crafted by a woman rescued from the sex trade. 

As a woman and a fan of handmade jewelry, I find this cause amazing and transformative. And since their necklaces are sold through social enterprise collective Things That Matter, it was easy and convenient for me to make that purchase. 

I received my necklace via same-day delivery, and I was thrilled with how pretty and minimalist it is. I feel strongest after a workout, so here I was wearing it after an hour of cardio. It is empowering to wear the creation of another empowered woman. This will definitely be a conversation starter, and a wardrobe staple that will remind me that beautiful things happen if I will yearn for those that matter.