Knitting Joy

I recently finished knitting this chunky scarf. I used Cotone Grande yarn from Oh My Yarn in the shade coffee. I intend to give it as a Christmas present, and I finished this early to make sure that it is done by then. The recipient is special to me, and I hope that he will like it.

Knitting is a welcome break from crochet as it requires me to use both of my hands to control the two needles. With crochet, I only use my right hand to manipulate the hook, as my left hand controls the yarn’s tension. My process usually involves a lot of music and podcasts. For this scarf in particular, I was able to finish two novels. Crochet requires more focus, while knitting allows me to work on autopilot. Hence, the two completed novels as I worked on this scarf.

I hope to finish more scarves while on quarantine! It is a relaxing endeavor that enables me to create gifts for my loved ones.

Stay safe and healthy, everyone!

Knitted Faith

Before my dad passed away last year, he asked me to knit or crochet a brown blanket for him. I always thought of his wish even if it has been more than a year since his passing. To commemorate his wish, I knitted myself a brown scarf using DMC Knitty Pop from Dreams Yarnshoppe.

I started knitting this during the start of the Enhanced Community Quarantine (ECQ) last March. I only finished it this week as I prioritized crocheting earsavers for medical frontliners. I only had time to continue knitting this scarf after finishing batches for each hospital. It became my reward for completing batches, and it was something that I really looked forward to.

I look forward to using this scarf when I am already allowed to explore the city again. I will probably take this to the cinema, or to a date without face masks on. I look forward to the day when this scarf can keep me warm when I am already allowed to freely go out again.

Crocheting Discipline

I dispatched 50 earsavers to the Karangalan Health Center today. It is an important hub to contain the Covid-19 outbreak in Pasig City. My grade school friend, Tosca, is a nurse and frontliner at this health center. It is my hope that my earsavers will somehow bring comfort and joy to amidst the challenges that come with flattening the curve.

This lockdown has been full of surprises for me so far. I am religiously posting my flute covers on my Instagram account on a daily basis. I have finished a couple of scarves while at home, including this crocheted scarf which I am particularly fond of because I stitched it while watching Crash Landing On You. My Human Nature online store (please buy and support my business!) has been doing well as I still ship orders via LBC during the enhanced community quarantine. I have even completed a t-shirt yarn basket to hold my works-in-progress or as we fondly call them in the crafting world, WIPs. Most of all, I finished crocheting an amigurumi Frontline Hero Bear (pattern can be downloaded for free here).

However, the biggest quarantine surprise for me is Earsavers for Lifesavers PH. I never imagined that I would still be able to help flatten the curve from home, but I managed to do my share. So far, I have already crocheted 343 earsavers to 7 partner institutions that are fighting Covid-19. I am one with the frontliners in their selfless service to caring for the sick.

Making earsavers (pattern is from crochet entrepreneur and teacher AmiEriCrafts) has instilled in me the discipline to create during an uncertain time. It has empowered me to help our frontliners in the comfort of my own home. This has given meaning and substance to a seemingly endless quarantine period.

I must say that I have also improved my multitasking skills because I was able to finish batches of earsavers while watching educational webinars, listening to podcasts, joining meetings via Zoom, watching movies, and get this- enjoying concerts from my favorite artists such as Ebe Dancel and Lea Salonga via livestream.

Crocheting earsavers has also been an application of design thinking. The problem of ear pain from wearing medical-grade masks has motivated crafters to make earsavers. I personally applied a pattern which I saw on YouTube, and continued making them using materials which I already own.

The best part is knowing that I am able to help alleviate pain. I was able to chat with some of the frontliners who received my earsavers. I was relieved that my handmade earsavers are working fine, and that they no longer experience having rashes or blisters on their ears.

It is really rewarding to know that my small contributions have helped our frontliners cure the sick.

I reward myself after completing each batch of earsavers (a batch consists of 30-50 pieces) by knitting scarves. Knitting after crocheting is similar to programming using a different language after coding with another one. It is like a massage to my mind and a comfort to my hands.

I am thankful that I found this group of crocheters who simply want to help our frontliners through earsavers and crochet (or knitting and sewing). I am continuing the practice of making earsavers for as long as my yarn supply permits.

For now, let us all stay home and try to do our share to help flatten the curve!

Stitching Home

I have been knitting scarves again since the community quarantine has been extended to April 30th. My yarn supply is running low, and I crochet fast. Knitting has regulated my crafting pace and also, helped me conserve my yarn.

Knitting at home has helped me process my feelings during this quarantine. I felt grief for the recent death of my loved ones, especially now that I am unable to visit their graves. I thought things through as far as relationships and friendships are concerned. I felt blessed that I am healthy and safe at home. And I felt thankful to have hobbies to keep my mind alert and preoccupied.

Stitching these scarves together has also helped me realized that home is a feeling, rather than a place. Someday, when this quarantine is already lifted, I will still continue knitting and crocheting. This is home for me.

Knitting Warmth

I started knitting again yesterday. It’s been quite a while since I busted out my knitting needles as I have been hooked on crochet for months now. Anyway, the cabin fever has caused me to return to knitting.

I love using these Furls knitting needles because they are handsomely crafted and they do feel good to touch. They make my Attic Yarn and Craftery yarn glide seamlessly with every stitch. The knitting experience with these tools is absolutely meditative.

Instead of feeling helpless with the extent of the corona virus, I am continuing my hobbies at home. There is joy in these simple crafts. Someday, I will look back on this quarantine as a time of enjoyment and self-assurance.

Done > Perfect

I have been knitting scarves for more than a year now. I started this hobby during the Knitting Adventure organized by Knitting Expedition in 2018. Since then, I have not looked back, as this has also led to my re-discovery of crochet. I knitted during meetings, in between appointments, during my commute, and in cafes.

I realized that I worked well with scarves, so I stuck to knitting these warm, cozy things. I also knitted beanies in the past, but I enjoyed the mindless process of making scarves. Working on a project without thinking about it, yet still being able to focus on a meeting or a task at hand has enabled me to multitask, expand my intellectual pursuits (I was able to knit while reading books and listening to podcasts!), and keep my hands busy. I have also shared my hobby on social media and here on my blog. It has been a joyful journey so far.

As I share with you this newly completed scarf made from yarns from my favorite yarn shop, The Attic Yarn and Craftery, I hope that you will be inspired to find a hobby that provides consistent purpose and meaning to your life. The world is already stressful as it is, so a hobby or two that can be enjoyed without much thought can free up your mind to focus on work, schedules, and adulting.

I am a firm believer in the saying that “done is better than perfect”. Yes, my handmade journey is not easy (ex. I have to bring extra tools everyday, I have to learn how to budget my time, etc.), but it has simplified my life because it has expanded my mind. By enjoying a “mindless” hobby, I was able to have a growth mindset. By starting to knit, I got projects done while improving as a worker.

I basically got it together, one stitch at a time!

Summer Knitting

Yesterday, I knitted while having lunch and coffee at Summer Cafe in Coron. It was a ray of sunshine amidst the gloomy day.  

I ordered the cheesy omelette and americano. It was a delicious combination!

For dessert, I headed to Pedro’s Gelato, a local ice cream joint in Coron. 

I had the ube langka and mango sorbet. It was so good!

Then, I visited the mangrove forest near the Maquinit Hot Springs. 

It was fun to knit, be my foodie self, and explore nature all one day. Hope to have more memories with the things that make me happy.  

Knitting By The Sea

Yesterday, I finally got to knit at Boracay. 

It was a treat to watch the waves crashing by as I stitched my scarf. 

I also got to buy functional souvenirs from local handmade merchants, such as Boracay Leathers. 

When it was time for a cuppa, I went to Real Coffee to sample their barako and famous calamansi muffins. 

I bought myself a personalized anklet from a handmade jewelry vendor. 

And even if I’m not into swimming, I enjoyed the remarkable white sand and pristine waters of Boracay. 

Getting out of my comfort zone is part of the journey. For every new experience, there is always knitting to keep me going so I know that there’s something to look forward to. 

Homespun Scarf

I just finished knitting this scarf using The Attic Yarn and Craftery’s Lion Brand homespun yarn. It has a slightly faux fur feel to it, which I love. It can also provide substantial warmth and style to any outfit. 

This project has helped me remain cool during this week’s challenges: job interviews, meetings, appointments. I was able to do some adulting while knitting this scarf! 

I know that I can achieve many things while applying my skills in knit and crochet.  

Happy Monday

I had a busy Monday. I found myself at Power Plant Mall yesterday for lunch, so I brought my starving self to Shawa Wama. 

I ordered the red beet falafel rice meal with a side order of fried cauli. It was delicious!

I later proceeded to Trinoma in Quezon City for a meeting. Later for dinner, I treated myself to this beautiful chicken and pasta plate from World Chicken. This outlet in the mall never fails to please me with their flavorful chicken and generous sides. 

And before calling it a day, I spent time with my favorite dog Ella and her friends at Barkin’ Blends Dog Cafe. It is always a lovely time with these fur babies who love being with humans.  

Having a good Monday is a state of mind. Even if I’m busy, I find myself eating the food that I want, knitting, and swinging by my usual dog cafe. Life is too short, so let’s make our Mondays count! 

Knitting Black

I visited SGD Bodega again for some black coffee from Sagada and my favorite oatmeal cookie.  

The sunny cafe and open ambience inspired me to take out my needles and knit.  

Knitting while sipping black coffee is truly relaxing. I feel one with nature whenever I’m in this cafe.

I know that someday, I’ll knit in the mountains again.  

Picturing Happiness

I spent the weekend at my best friend Luti’s condo. Our friend Amabelle was in town (she’s based in Batangas), so we watched Netflix while catching up. 

Luti’s condo is right in the middle of the city. It’s also near a couple of malls that I frequent. 

The sunrise looks pretty from her window. 

We did some brisk walking early Sunday morning.  

I also bumped into my friend from Human Nature, Cindy. 

We had breakfast at UP’s local resto, Chocolate Kiss.  

Their tsokolate (hot chocolate) was delicious. 

So was this longganisa brekkie plate.  

We ordered cakes in honor of our late friend Diane’s birth anniversary.  

It was also a pleasant surprise to see the photo I submitted to Manila bulletin get published.  

I needed a cuppa after our heavy meal, so I got myself an iced latte from Nomu.  

It’s a well-balanced cuppa! I highly recommend it. 

Back in the condo, I was even able to do some crocheting.  

Later during the day, we went to the mall and I donated this Project Aral kit with slippers. It has become my tradition to donate kits every year. Hahahahaha  

I had yummy burger steak from Bigger Better Burgers.  

I managed to find a pretty floor. 

And I witnessed a beautiful sunset.  

I had quite a lovely weekend. Thank you Luti! 

Summer Pinks

I just finished knitting this infinity scarf at the hospital where my dad was confined. He told me that he wanted a blanket from me, and when I asked which colors he would want me to include in the project, he told me that he was simply thinking about it. 

I finished this scarf right before my dad passed away. 

It was handmade with love for my cousin Abby in Canada. I hope that she will like it. 

Life is too short. Here’s to more stitches and ties that bind us. 

Spicing Up Life

My life right now revolves around my terminally-ill dad. Whenever I need a break, I walk around the hospital.  

I buy food from nearby establishments, such as Bonchon.  

I knit.  

And I talk to friends, such as Bianca (kinder and grade school classmate) and her boyfriend JP.  

They gave my dad this prayer card from Padre Pio Chapel in Libis.  

I am grateful for friends, food, and yarn that keep me going during this tough time. With a dash of faith and a lot of prayer, I know that I got this.  

Going Up

Yesterday, I found this staircase at the hospital with natural light. I couldn’t resist taking a selfie in the sunny stairwell. 

I knitted as I cared for my terminally-ill father. 

Then, I joined my US and Canada-based relatives as they toured the village where we all grew up. I stayed here until I was twelve years old. 

We ended the day with dinner with Tarlac-based relatives and more Filipino food! 

I drove them in the rain, and I’m happy that we reached their hotel safely. 

I enjoyed my relatives’ company, and their visit reminded me that there’s nowhere to go but up. In tough times, there’s family I can count on, and faith to strengthen me.  

In Good Company

Yesterday, I had lunch with my helper Racquel at a Greek restaurant. We had to finish some errands, and this was a delicious break from our tasks. 

Then, I met my maternal relatives from the US and Canada for early dinner. We ate Filipino food, and had a massage afterwards. 

I even managed to squeeze in some knitting while having my massage. 

As an only child, it’s important that I find good company to help me get through my dad’s terminal illness. I’m glad that my maternal relatives supported me during this difficult time, and that my helper is always willing to extend a helping hand. They inspire me to keep going, no matter how bleak the days seem to be. 

Here’s to better days ahead! 

Faith and Family

I am thankful for family during this difficult time. My cousin Van sent us pastries, and I’ve been having delicious bread for brekkie. 

I am thankful for our helpful Racquel who had helped me through thick and thin. 

I am thankful for street food, such as these potato chip skewers. 

I am thankful for knit and crochet. 

I was able to give my makes to my relatives from the US. 

I am thankful for a friend I met online whose ministry is to share wooden holding crosses to the sick and their families. 

I am grateful for the gift of life. I am thankful for time with my terminally-ill father. I am happy that I can still share memories with my family. 

We are all in this together.  

For My Dad

Yesterday, I started with my new job. While my dad is fighting for his life at the hospital, I am beginning a new chapter in my life. I am commencing my new role as a Junior Accounts Manager in a digital marketing and tech firm in Quezon City.  

It is definitely a challenge for me to begin in an industry that I am new in. At the same time, it is the perfect opportunity for me to start again and grow during this difficult time.  

I may be criticized by my relatives and friends for working while my dad is in critical condition, but I am doing this to empower myself. I need to support myself and buy enough food to survive. 

I am doing this for my dad. I am dedicating my new job for him, as he has also worked hard to send me to school and to support me as I was growing up. Now, it’s my turn to earn and take care of him. 

I am thankful for the new job, and I hope that I can effectively contribute to the company’s growth as I also evolve as an employee.  

Cupcake Beanie

Today’s my blog anniversary! I started speakoutsam.com two years ago when I had a job in IT. I was the program officer of my alma mater’s IT department for during that time, and I felt that I needed to have something for myself that was related to my field. I am not a coder or a programmer, so a blog was the most logical choice for me to set up. 

I enjoyed blogging so much that I ended up doing it everyday. I got to share about my interests such as knitting and crochet. Incidentally, I just finished knitting this beanie for my goddaughter. So, if there’s anything that I can say today, it’s that you can blog about anything that makes you happy. If you have a hobby, then you can share about that. If you have a job that enriches your life with skills and training, you may also apply your learnings in your blog. 

It is also my first day at my new job. It’s at an IT company again. As my blog turns two, I am thankful for blessings that come my way, and for opportunities that lead me to where I'm meant to be.  

Here’s to more years to speakoutsam!

NAIA Work Day 3

Yesterday was the final one of my three-day stint as a NAIA Buyer Services Representative. I watched the sunrise at the airport while knitting. 

Then, I manned our booth and welcomed arrivals with a smile.  

I had Jollibee’s halo-halo sundae and brewed coffee for dessert during lunch.  

I attended mass during my break at the airport chapel.  

Then, I got to finish crocheting this scarf during my shift. 

I had maruya (fried sweet bananas) and brewed coffee at the cafeteria before close of business. 

Then, I rode the bus to World Trade Center. 

We had our debriefing at the venue itself. I was giddy to be back at Manila FAME. 

After our meeting, we got to explore the fair.  

All our hard work for the past three days was worth it once I saw the fair. I was blown away by the astounding exhibitors and the artistry of the Philippines.  

I am proud to be part of this event, and I have a renewed love for country after this.  

For dinner, I grabbed a beef bowl at Yoshinoya before calling it a day. 

It was an honor to serve our country and witness the capability of our artists. I am proud to be Filipino!