Comfort and Prayer

Last Wednesday, I was able to have late lunch at Gubat. It has become my favorite hideaway at UP Diliman. I like their kamayan concept, where people have to eat with their hands. However, I also wanted to try their food with cutlery so I brought my own.
I was not disappointed! Their longganisa meal looked and tased fancier with cutlery.

The author brings her own utensils to Gubat, a kamayan restaurant

The author is all smiles with her favorite longganisa meal at Gubat

After my comforting meal, I went to St. Clare Monastery to pray for my intentions and to give thanks for all my blessings.

The author poses with her patroness, St. Clare

The author offers eggs at St. Clare Monastery

Food and faith are two passions of mine. It has become my custom to frequently practice both. I hope that you will continue to follow my foodie and faith adventures this 2020!

Candlelight Crochet

Yesterday, I got to crochet by candlelight at Wildflour. I had an unforgettable brunch! I feasted on their mushroom bowl, the milk ice cream, and their latte. It was a delicious way to celebrate my hobby and of course, to nourish myself.

Being a foodie and a crochet enthusiast has brought me to several restaurants where I could enjoy my hobby in public. I love bringing my yarn and hook with me wherever I go. I think the handmade life should go beyond the home. It should be expressed and lived with pride, whether in private or in full view of the world.

May you also find the hobby that brings you joy, and the courage to experience that joy in public!

Slay, Pray, Play

I had a productive Thursday. I started my day with a meeting in Manila. My brunch consisted of this hearty mac and cheese, which was topped with sunny-side up egg. I ordered corn and cheese jello for dessert. It was a delicious combo!

After my meeting, I headed to Sta. Clara to pray for my upcoming opportunities, and to give thanks for all the blessings that I continue to receive.

I proceeded to Barkin’ Blends Dog Cafe for some quality time with my furry friends from the east. Spending time with dogs is therapeutic for me, and it keeps me balanced.

I ended my day with some dirty ice cream at UP. I was in the campus to watch Pan de Salawal, an indie film which warmed my heart.

I make sure that I have enough hobbies to make life meaningful. Working all the time is not sustainable, so whenever I have time to spare, I visit the dog cafe, watch movies, and pray for more chances to slay. Life is about balancing my priorities and making each day colorful. And of couse, I show up daily to blog about it here on speakoutsam.com.

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. 

NAIA Work Day 3

Yesterday was day three of my four-day stint as a NAIA Buyer Services Representative. 

I started my day with brekkie.  

Then, I worked the empty halls of the airport. 

I crocheted while waiting for VIP passengers.  

I also hung out with airport colleague Jang. 

Then, I transferred to terminal three for lunch and coffee. I had 1st Colonial sili ice cream for dessert and it was delicious! 

I also served as lector during the noontime mass at the airport chapel.  

After work, I offered eggs at St. Clare Monastery.  

I also bonded with the dogs of Barkin’ Blends’ East branch.  

I got a blind massage to cap off my day.  

Here’s to more opportunities to balance work and life with faith, furry friends, and food! 

Movie Afternoon

Yesterday, I watched a movie at the UP Cine Adarna’s Videotheque. 

I watched Above the Clouds starring the late Pepe Smith. 

It was a sunny day, and I felt inspired to take some photos. 

I also had Rodic’s tapsilog for late lunch. 

I did a bit of walking around the oval. 

Then, I dropped by St. Clare to pray for my dad and my other intercessions. 

I bought my favorite breakfast smoothie from Go! Salads for dinner. 

I ended my day with Ulan, directed by Irene Emma Villamor at Cinema Centenario. I love this microcinema because it feels like home- I even have a favorite seat (G5). I find myself here whenever I want to unwind and think things through. 

Films help me see things in a different perspective. Spending my free time at green spaces like UP Diliman is inspiring, and I feel energized with local film and trees.

Here’s to more simple joys with a dash of prayer and tapsilog!

Film to Faith

Yesterday, I watched Jino to Mari, a Filipino indie film directed by Joselito Altarejos. It tackled poverty as a social context and the extreme choices that have to be made in order to make ends meet. Angela Cortez delivered the performance of a lifetime in this film, as she played a young mother who had to shoot a pornography film for her family. It was a heartbreaking movie that reminded me to count my blessings and appreciate the opportunities that I have. 

The movie saddened me (which was good, since that was what the director hopefully intends), so I ate the bulgogi beef rice bowl at 8Bowls Asian Kitchen. It was delicious and great value for Php99!

Later, I went to St. Clare to give thanks, pray for my intentions, and offer eggs. 

I enjoy watching indie films because they give me a glimpse of reality that commercial films don’t usually portray. Coupled with affordable but delicious food and a dash of prayer, I know that I can pursue the opportunities that are within my reach to escape the undesirable circumstances in my own life. All I have to do is act on my goals, and keep on pursuing the things that inspire me to dream.  

Simple Design

Yesterday, I started my day by dropping off some snail mail. As an avid philatelist and analog fan, I still send letters to loved ones here and abroad to let them know that they’re in my thoughts. Snail mail can never be replaced by email or instant messaging. There’s a joy in waiting for a letter to arrive, and writing one’s good wishes on paper. It’s a practice that I will continue observing even in the age of the Fourth Industrial Revolution. 

After my morning meeting, I had a simple lunch at Megamall. I had Kipp’s chicken burger steak and Quickly coffee 2 (it’s iced coffee with choco pudding). So good!

Then, I went to CITEM for a quick meeting.  

I am inspired by design thinking, so being in this office drives me to be a better problem solver in my day-to-day activities. I have attended CITEM’s design thinking conferences in the past, and my favorite was the IDC in 2017. I hope to attend more design thinking workshops and conferences in the future, and I am proud to see the Philippines excelling by design. 

I have a thing for doors, so I had to take a photograph before I left the building.  

My next stop was St. Clare Monastery. I prayed for work, more projects and partnerships, as well as for my terminally-ill father’s health. 

I capped my day by watching Samantha Lee’s Billie and Emma for the second time. I love this movie even if I am straight. It’s a simple love story that resonates with everyone. 

There is no better time for me to claim opportunities that are aligned with my values and ideals. At the same time, there will always be ways for me to squeeze in a film, some food trips, and prayer. Life is getting better, and I’m so in.  

Big Bad Wolf 2019

Yesterday, I ate brekkie at our neighborhood canteen. I had tortang talong (eggplant omelette) and rice. It was so good! 

Then, I had lunch at the 24-hour pop-up food court at Big Bad Wolf 2019!

I got my usual at Potdog: crab egg with rice. Yum!

It was cool to see social enterprise goods by Gawad Kalinga at the food court. 

I was excited for this year’s Big Bad Wolf as I was able to hunt some fabulous finds last year. 

The overwhelming amount of books did not faze me as I clearly knew what I wanted. 

Still, I browsed through the stacks of books and enjoyed the hours I spent at the fair.  

I stuck to my shopping list and bought three adult coloring books. I have already migrated to using ebooks, but the joy of coloring cannot be replicated by an app. I needed the real deal. 

Before leaving the fair, I dropped by the Red Readerhood booth. 

I donated two books for Gawad Kalinga kids. Of course, I had to select dog-themed books. 

I offered eggs and prayers at St. Clare to ask for miracles for my family.  

I wrapped up my day with some coffee jelly and coloring therapy at the café near home.  

Books, food, knitting, and coloring spark joy for me! I will be back for next year’s Big Bad Wolf for sure! 

Climate Change: Justice For All?

Yesterday, I started my day with some taho before boarding the MRT.  

I reached the ADB in less than thirty minutes! I must say that the MRT is improving. 

I represented my blog at a roundable discussion entitled Climate Change: Justice for All?. 

It was a huge honor to be invited once again by the ADB. 

I learned that agribusiness, renewable energy, and ecotourism are some gender-sensitive examples of climate change adaptation  

It is also important to note post-disaster and pre-disaster operations in order to know the areas for improvement in vulnerable areas.

It is also essential to instill empowerment among ALL individuals to reduce vulnerability and to better manage disaster risk. 

I was delighted to have the famous ADB crinkles again for snack. 

I got to do some work at the library. 

I wore my Hiblahi handmade earrings which I purchased from my GK Enchanted Farm trip last Saturday. 

I knitted while listening to some podcasts.  

And I had burger steak from Trattoria Gourmet’s at the ADB Cafeteria, which is managed by the same staff at its original Shangri-la Mall restaurant back in the nineties.  

I dropped by St. Clare Monastery after finishing my work as I was thankful to be given the chance to spend a day at ADB and join in the round table on climate change. 

It is still my dream to work at ADB! I am claiming it, and certainly praying for it.  

Valentine’s 2019

Yesterday, I started Valentine’s Day by knitting while waiting for lunch to be served. My family and I had lunch at Japan Fūdo Street, and we had a lovely time! 

I had my usual order, the oyakodon. It’s delicious and flavorful.  

After lunch, I went to St. Clare Monastery to lift up my intentions and give thanks to the Lord for all the blessings that I continue to receive.  

Then, I continued my Valentine’s Day tradition of visiting Barkin’ Blends Dog Cafe.  

I was welcomed by friendly doggos who don’t seem to mind my presence, even if I’m there almost weekly! 

Of course, I had to cuddle my favorite doggo Ella on heart’s day.  

I was also lucky to receive chocolates from the owners of Barkin’ Blends. Thank you! 

I had a soy honey refresher from Soy Yummy and I was pleased to meet a deaf employee there. I am happy that more businesses are employing special needs staff. They deserve equal opportunities in the workforce.  

I had early dinner at Falafel Yo! I was pleasantly surprised with their pita fries. They’re yummy!

Before going home, I got to listen to some acoustic love songs at the free gig inside the mall.  

I even received a free pastillas rose from the mall management. Thank you! 

I came home to a package from Lazada. My yarn bowl has arrived safely.  

It’s nicer in person, and it fits all my yarns!

I am happy with my Valentine’s Day celebration this year. I got to knit, pray, spend time with doggos, eat out, and gift myself with more crafting. Life is good, and I am so blessed. 

Prayer and Luck

Yesterday, I managed to eat somewhere new! I’ve been hearing positive reviews about Sinji Dimsum at SM North Sky Garden. I ended up eating there primarily because of their interesting tiles. 

I ordered the truffle mushroom siomai rice meal and it was delicious! Their in-house garlic chili sauce perfectly spiced-up this dish.  

I sent a postcard via snail mail to one of my Human Nature online store clients after my hearty meal and coffee. Do support my entrepreneurial venture and click now to shop for natural and locally-made toiletries!

I also dropped by St. Clare Monastery to pray for good health, good vibes, and a fantastic job.  

Before going home, I chanced upon this auspicious dragon dance.  

I am optimistic for the future, and I can’t wait to see what lies ahead! With a little luck and lots of prayers, I know that I got this.  

Sunday Paws

Yesterday, I crocheted while waiting for my lunch at Barkin’ Blends Dog Cafe. I had the Bonnie Burger and a wintermelon milk tea. I missed this combo so much because food and milk tea are only available at the Sta. Lucia branch (I frequent the SM North Towers branch more because it’s closer to my house).  

I also missed the bigger doggos who are mainstays at Sta. Lucia. 

I also met Shadow, a rescued black Labrador who was abandoned at the vet. She was left behind after her original owners broke up. Now, she has a happy disposition at her new home.  

Another rescued dog is Potchi the pug, who has only one eye.  

All of their dogs are still so sweet and caring.  

I had some tokneneng (deep fried quail eggs) for snack...

...and some calamansi juice to perk me up.  

I ended my day with Sunday mass at St. Clare Monastery.  

Before driving home, I enjoyed a large cup of sour cheese fries from Potato Corner.  

Life is too short. We should make time to be with beings that cheer us up, for worship, and for cheat meals. Treat yourself within your means on weekends, and watch yourself take on the world during the workweek. 

Monday Prayer

Yesterday, I visited St. Clare Monastery to pray for a good job (and a kind boss) this 2019. I also gave thanks for all the blessings that come my way, despite my dad’s illness and the current challenges that my family is facing. 

As I crocheted a new scarf, I realized that my priorities are on point. It’s just that I have to be more thankful in order to welcome more blessings into my life.  

I will also continue sharing my journey on this blog as I go along. I hope that with intentional prayer and action, I will be able to reach my goals this 2019! 

Journey to Faith

Yesterday, I rode a couple of trains to... 

...St. Clare Monastery! I gave thanks and prayed for my personal intentions.  

I had a hearty and healthful lunch. The Wild Wild West salad from Go! Salads was so delicious. The ranch dressing definitely brought a unique punch to my midday.  

I continued to do some work on my phone while cuddling with the dogs of Barkin’ Blends Dog Cafe. I was welcomed by my favorite dog, Ella the chiweenie. 

Stark the pomsky was camera-shy. 

I also bonded with Ella’s son Chocnut and Happy the pug.  

It was hard to say goodbye even if I’m a frequent guest at the cafe.  

Before going to bed, I transferred these two scents into travel perfume bottles from Beabi. I was proud of myself for finding a way to transfer the DKNY perfume to the smaller bottle as it was difficult to open. Thank God for online forums, and I was able to research how to open the bottle.  

Both scents were Christmas gifts to me.  

I restore my faith by continuously praying, communing with nature (in the form of furry dogs), and surprising myself with a new skill (even if it’s as simple as transferring perfume). Life is a journey, but it can be easier with some faith and belief in oneself. 

Waking Up to Hope

Yesterday, I dropped by St. Clare to pray for my dad. I also prayed that I will have a job soon, and that I will also find someone with a good heart to date. 

I also got a Sgt. Steak salad from Go! Salads for lunch. 

I liked their chimichurri dressing and it went well with the seared steak and mushrooms!

I had Mang Cha-a iced coffee to offset the strong taste of the chimichurri. 

And for dinner, I had the meatball marinara pasta salad from Juju Eats. 

I wake up for myself, so that I can help my family during this difficult time. I need to take care of myself first by eating right and praying hard. And tomorrow, I’ll have to repeat these steps until hopefully, my dad is healed.

Here’s hoping that I’ll find more reasons to hope this 2019! 

#dearsunniessanta

I recently won the @dearsunniessanta giveaway hosted by eyewear brand Sunnies Studios. I was one of 100 winners. 

Photo from @dearsunniessanta 

I wished for a brand new pair of Sunnies Specs as my old Harlow pair already had moldy temples (I’m hyperacidic). 

 Photo from @sunniesspecs

 Photo from @dearsunniessanta

So yesterday, I claimed my Sunnies Santa goodie bag from Sunnies Specs SM North Edsa, and it was magical! 

I received festive merch aside from my specs.  

And choosing my new pair turned out to be challenging because Sunnies Specs has so many options! 

I finally chose a nude acetate pair, which I will claim after 24 hours.  

To give thanks and continue praying for my personal intentions, I proceeded to St. Clare Monastery.  

I went to Mendiola to continue praying and pose by CEU’s famous pink wall.  

No trip to Mendiola is complete without a stopver to St. Jude.  

Then, I went to St. Joseph at Anonas.  

My last stop for the day was Cinema ‘76 to buy my Goyo DVD. Special thanks to relatives who generously gave me Christmas money to buy presents for myself.  

I am really thankful for all the blessings that I continue to receive. Christmas is best enjoyed when there is hope for the future. Winning the Dear Sunnies Santa competition has inspired me to dream and to keep my eyes on the prize- that is, a brighter tomorrow. Here’s to us who dream, and to us who never stop believing!

Piece of my Heart

Yesterday, I visited a micro cinema, some churches, and a dog cafe. I also did a good deed.

My first stop was St. Joseph Shrine at Anonas, Quezon City.  

Then, I went to Cinema ‘76 across the street.  

I watched Hintayan ng Langit while knitting my new scarf and I loved every minute of it! It was funny and dramatic. And I can’t get over how lovely sets are! As always, Gina Pareño was a gem. I highly recommend this film!

I trooped to St. Clare to continue praying for my intentions.  

Then, I went to Mendiola...

...to pray at St. Jude.  

I also donated blood at the Red Cross bus which is there on all Thursdays of December. December 13, 2017 was when I had a memorable date with a guy I know, but things didn’t work out between us. While he’s still one of my best friends, we don’t have feelings anymore for each other. But that was still an unforgettable evening. To commemorate that night, and to remind myself that I have the power to help out in my own little way, I shared a piece of my heart- my own blood- to the Philippine Red Cross. 

I ended my day with some iced tea while playing with the dogs of Barkin’ Blends Dog Cafe. 

I had a fun December 13, and I know that I will remember this day moving forward as the day when I shared a piece of my heart. Here’s to more warm, fuzzy memories ahead!

Keeping Afloat

I used to meet my late friend Diane at Starbucks Gateway back in uni. We would meet here as this was halfway between my school, UA&P, and hers, the Ateneo. We used to sit by the window and admire the leather shoes and bags at PabDer. And our conversation flowed as our coffees got colder. We didn’t really mind, as we were there for each other. 

I miss her still. She passed away in 2008, but I still commemorate her life whenever I can. Yesterday, I knitted at our Starbucks (by the way, happy 21st anniversary, Starbucks Philippines!), while admiring the shoes and bags at PabDer from afar. It’s Christmas, and carols are being played on the speakers. My coffee has gone cold. But the memory of Diane continues to warm my heart. 

To cheer myself up, I bought a large mango float from popular chain Maxi Mango. It was delicious, as always!

Then, I lifted up my intentions at St. Clare Monastery. 

Adulting may be messy and unpredictable, so I keep my constants close because they help me stay afloat. I know that Diane is watching over me and our other friends, and that St. Clare is praying for my intentions.

I believe that good things will come my way very soon!

Faith, Food, and Film

Yesterday I had beer and okonomiyaki with an old friend. 

It was delicious, and it was nice to catch-up with old friends, as always.  

I walked around UP to burn my lunch.  

I went to St. Clare to pray for some challenges I am currently undertaking, and for the strength to endure them all. 

Then, I had strong coffee while knitting.  

My last stop for the night was UP Cine Adarna to watch Through Night and Day starring one of my favorite actresses, Alessandra De Rossi.  

I had junk food and coffee while waiting. 

And like most Alessandra De Rossi films, it was a showstopper. I enjoyed it, even if it broke my heart.  

Looking forward to more food trips, prayer breaks, and film nights in the future!