#QuielleBaby

I have been a fan of local jewelry brand Quielle since 2018. Their quality pieces are made of either stainless steel or sterling silver, which are ideal for my acidic skin.

I love their newest personalized designs, which are the Old English name anklet and baybayin name necklace with pressed flower. I couldn’t resist them, and I ordered both of them. My pieces took a fortnight to make, and the wait was worth it. Both of them were beautiful and perfect for daily wear.

This is not a sponsored post. I am simply a fan of this local shop. With the pandemic still upon us, please consider supporting local SME’s. It would really boost our economy and help our country move forward amidst the challenges brought about by the Covid-19 virus.

Let personalized jewelry brighten up your day! God bless us all and stay safe, everyone!

Assam Milk Tea Vibes

Last Sunday, I started my day with some handmade accessories: my ceramic earrings from Maria Ceramika and my stainless steel and crystal necklace from Made by KCA.  

I was happy to spot some pretty tiles while ordering milk tea.

I was feeling festive, so I got myself some Assam Milk Tea with Pudding and Pannacotta. This drink simply reminds me of good vibes and simpler times. 

Then, I got myself a bracelet spelled g-r-i-t from Bedazzled Accessories at The Craft Central. It should remind me to keep going during tough times because I’m resilient and resourceful. 

It was day two of the Destash Bash at The Craft Central Cafe! My favorite yarn store, The Attic Yarn and Craftery had a booth there, where they sold affordable yarns and makes.   

I got myself this lovely cup cozy crocheted with love by Ceryl, one of the women behind this brand. I am thankful to have found this brand, and I look forward to more years of friendship with them.  

I also returned to Made by KCA’s booth at the bazaar outside Vertis North. I got myself a moonstone ring inspired by my undying love for Bella Swan of the Twilight books. 

I will forever support handmade because it inspires me to be a better person! I may not have much, but because I have grit and a good eye for local treasures, I know that I will survive anything that life throws at me. 

And at the end of the day, there’s always milk tea.  

Ring for the Babies

At a time when life’s challenges can get overwhelming, I was able to find a way to share my blessings while indulging in my love for jewelry. I recently purchased a silver ring from local brand Vera Juan, who’s currently on hiatus. Before she went on a break, she sold some jewelry for the benefit of the Leycano twins. They were born prematurely, and their parents need help in paying their medical bills. You may help them via this GoGetFunding page. 

My ring is sparkly and dainty! Perfect for my small hand, this ring will inspire me to shine bright even during dark times. Thanks to the twin girls Pia and Paz, I am inspired to find ways to help others while empowering myself.  

Here’s to more sharing and helping in the coming weeks and months! 

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. 

Fiesta, Footwear, and a Festival

I celebrated St. Clare’s feast yesterday by dropping by her monastery. I braved the rain and offered eggs in her honor. 

Her feast day is just a couple of days before my birthday, which is why I have a special devotion to her. She has been a powerful intercessor through the years.  

It was also inspiring to be with other devotees on this special day.  

I got home to my new Renegade Folk shoes in Timeless. This is my third pair from the Marikina-made shoe brand. They create shoes which are perfect for my style. Also, I can walk in them comfortably, and I love supporting local!

I later visited the annual Philippine Readers and Writers Festival at Raffles Makati. 

This year’s festival featured author talks and signings, as always.  

But I was delighted that this year’s festival pass contains free entrance to next month’s Manila International Book Fair! 

I enjoyed browsing through books... 

...saying hello to history bae Jose Rizal... 

...and playing with the photo booth! 

In the end, I purchased four local books, and I can’t wait to read them all.  

As a Youngblood baby, I always find myself attending their workshop at the festival. Pam Pastor’s wit never gets old. 

After the workshop, I proceeded to National Bookstore’s booth, where I won an advance reader’s copy for Ghosted by Rosie Walsh.  

I had a lovely afternoon at the festival, and I am excited to be back next year! 

As a bookworm, blogger, devotee, and lover of all things local, I can say that my Saturday was quite eventful! Here’s to braving the rain and participating in more activities that will remind me of how blessed I am, and how I can write about them all on my blog.  

Stepping Up

Last Sunday, I browsed through the Yabang Pinoy bazaar at Alabang Town Center, after my trip to Common Room.  

I loved the fiesta vibe! All the vendors were local exhibitors, and most of the merchandise were handmade. 

I was truly captivated with these handmade polymer clay accessories. They were detailed and exquisitely designed. The vendor, The Nifty Pandas, accepts commissions for both individual and bulk orders  

If you want to have piece made, don’t hesitate to reach out to them on Instagram!

It was difficult choosing between Ariel and Sailor Moon.  

In the end, I got Ariel! 

I also purchased a pair of brogues from Marikina shoe brand Rob and Mara. 

I ended my bazaar visit with some curry lobster balls.  

I had an amazing experience. Seeing all those merchants inspired me to continue supporting local and handmade. I can’t wait to step up to daily challenges in my growing collection of Marikina-made shoes, including my new brogues. And of course, I will keep on hustling, so that just like Ariel, I will be part of their world at work!

Thriving Locally

I had a fantastic weekend!

I started my Saturday and Sunday mornings with Zumba. I must say that I am glad to see progress on my abs. 

I also took brisk walks around my local park and took breaks on interesting nooks such as this grotto. 

I enjoyed freshly-baked bread from my neighborhood bakery. 

And yesterday, I rode a P2P to visit Common Room Alabang. 

I donated some old paper bags on-site to support their ‘no new paper bags’ campaign, which I think is really cool. 

But the main reason why I went there was to buy a handmade Tubbs the Cat doll from Pop Junk Love. They had selected dolls at 50% off for the benefit of Cribs Foundation. It was a win-win because I have always wanted to purchase a doll from them, and I love supporting charities!

I also browsed through the store and found old handmade favorites such as Knitting Expedition.

In the end, I refused to have Tubbs packed in a paper bag. He went home with me inside my spacious Knitting Expedition Tiyargo bag.  

Every visit to Common Room motivates me to continue supporting local and handmade! My heart is full now that I have a new stuffed toy, and it’s all for a good cause. Fitness and my handmade lifestyle are not just weekend norms, as I do practice them everyday. They only seem to get magnified on weekends because I have more time to explore places that define them. 

I look forward to more weekend adventures and handmade stories! 

Common Room Katipunan Trip

I went to Common Room Katipunan after my event at the Ateneo Art Gallery to buy some handmade trinkets. I have always advocated  conscious consumerism by buying handmade and supporting local. So whenever I feel like shopping, I prioritize those that fall under these categories. 

Common Room is a shrine for those who love the handmaid lifestyle. 

They have a swing! 

Feast your eyes with all the handmade goodies inside the shop. 

I even saw some Knitting Expedition plushies!

The store also has a respectable leather goods section. 

I ended up with a coin purse, monogrammed cord ties, and a couple of pairs of basic stainless steel earrings. 

The store has an ongoing recycling campaign, so I donated the labels that came with my goodies. 

Buying handmade always makes me happy. There is a sense of fulfillment in buying from small, independent brands. I hope Common Room will have more successful years in business. And I look forward to going back to shop for more handmade goodness someday!

Quixote Paella

Last Monday, I had lunch at Quixote, which is owned by Cholo and Tricia Ancheta. I met this lovely couple during my Banaue trip, and when I found out that they have a Spanish kitchen near my house, I knew I had to try it out!

It is conveniently located inside Malingap Central Food Hall, am air-conditioned food park with parking and clean restrooms. Those factors alone were enough for me to try it out!

Their affordable menu features Spanish’s favorites. I went for their paella x salpicao combo for only Php340. I chose the carne paella because I’m really carnivorous and hungry! 

I had no regrets with my order as it was good for one person. There was also great service, and a hip playlist!

The paella and salpicao were both delicious and filling! It was great value for money and the food was one of the best I have tried in the Maginhawa neighborhood. 

Presentation was also excellent! I paid for a quality, delicious Spanish meal that looks as good as it tastes. 

I put the salpicao on top of my paella and it was awesome. 

Congratulations Cholo and Tricia! I had a delicious meal. I will be back! 

Papemelroti Artisan’s Workshop

Yesterday, I spent the afternoon crafting, making, and simply being myself. 

I dropped by the newly opened Papemelroti Artisan’s Workshop to chill out and get lost in arts and crafts. I was eager to take a break from reality, and I was not disappointed at all.  

I was lucky to find a parking slot in front of the Korben Building. I was able to look around the Papemelroti Flagship Store at the ground floor, where handmade goodies were on display.  

I am a huge fan of Papemelroti merchandise because they are locally made and most of them are crafted by artisans in need (their accessories are made by the Kidney Friends Foundation members).  

The second floor houses racks of vintage clothing which are in good condition! Proceeds from the sales of these clean thrifted fashion go to charity.  

The clothes are affordable and most of them are branded.  

A few steps from the clothing boutique is the Artisan’s Workshop. I was greeted by shelves of kits awaiting customization.

I also found this napping area.  

This taka horse is reminiscent of the papier-mâché horses at Paete, Laguna. 

They have paper dolls in the workshop. Perfect for a nostalgic play session. 

The workshop is open from Monday to Saturday from 8AM to 8PM. You do not need to book or schedule a crafting session. You simply show up, purchase a kit, and pay the Php50 borrower’s fee for materials such as paint, glue, pens, and old magazines.  

The space is inspiring and it brings out the artist in you. Notice the natural light, murals, and handmade decor.  

The tables and chairs are inviting and I was excited to spend time crafting!

When I saw these papier-mâché sitting pretty dolls, I knew I already found my kit for the day. 

Their menu features affordable price points and various craft options for all ages. 

So I finally settled for a 2018 planner and sitting pretty doll as my crafts for the day. Yes, I chose two because, why not? 

I began my crafternoon at the stamping station which is reminiscent of similar setups at tourist spots abroad.  

I personalized the first two pages and I knew that it will be a productive session. 

I also got an old book so I could tear the pages off for decorating my planner and doll. As a bookworm, this broke my heart a bit. But then again, this is also eco-friendly. And words look pretty.  

I did my thing and enjoyed the sunshine on my window.  

I was assisted by workshop staff Lyn, who was not just a proficient teacher, but also a skilled photographer! 

I gave my doll magazine cutout hair and curled it using scissors.  

Before I knew it, I already spent four hours in there and I was done! 

Lyn was game to take photos of me with my crafternoon work.  

I was really into the taka horse.  

This place made me feel young, carefree, and capable of having a dream. As you know, one of my dreams is to live a handmade lifestyle. I think this afternoon perfectly upholds that! 

Meet my sitting pretty doll! I enjoyed decorating, painting, and styling her. 

I made her heart wings, which I later removed and turned into a separate decor for Valentines.  

I had a productive crafternoon and my journal is basically my vision board for the year. I pasted magazine cutouts, painted words, and placed stickers to spice up my days.  

Spot my creation among her sisters! 

By the time I was done, I was starving so I drove to Breakfast Bin Maginhawa for my favorite toasted naked longganisa with brown rice and sunny-side up egg.  

I had a gorgeous day and I recommend the Papemelroti Artisan’s Workshop for your next art session! Bring your friends and family. Or if you want to spend some quiet time by yourself, it is also fine! Then eat at your preferred restaurant. You deserve self-love and handmade goodness all-year round!

Post-Holiday Shopping

Yesterday, I finally spent the gift card from my Ninong Oscar to buy a basic black handbag from the department store. In keeping with my “buy local” advocacy, I bought a genuine leather number from Zoe Bags. It is sleek, reasonably priced, and stylish. I cannot wait to use it as I bag better opportunities this 2018!

I also had the chance to have my photo taken with the Sanrio holiday display. It made me feel like a kid again and it cheered me up! It pays to always be game to smile and seize every chance to have a memorable photo to capture moments of joy. 

I am all for simple pleasures in life. While I do own branded stuff, I still enjoy buying affordable pieces from department stores, bazaars, and online shops. I go for quality though, and I make sure that my money is spent well. As long as the item can serve me well, is made of materials which will enable it to last, and is within my budget, then I will definitely purchase it. Through the years, the most treasured items I own are those which are simple in design, yet thoughtfully made. I will be on the lookout for more blessings to come, and hopefully, these will spark joy into my life this 2018 and beyond.