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!

On Baths and History

I love taking indulging in eco-friendly bath products from my online Human Nature store.  (If you want natural toiletries benefitting Gawad Kalinga residents, please click on the link in the previous sentence and support my small business!)  Another thing I love is crocheting. Thus, I have combined my passions for natural toiletries and crochet by making my own scrubbie!

I followed a video tutorial on YouTube, so if you are also interested to crochet one, look for a video that suits you. Also, use 100% cotton yarn. 

As I have already finished my scrubbie, I returned to knitting and began another colorful cowl.  

I had lunch at Breakfast Bin, where I had my usual toasted naked longganisa with brown talangka rice. 

For dessert, I had this glorious matcha and toasted oatmeal ice cream scoops.  

I did some brisk walking at UP Diliman.  

Then, I dropped by St. Clare to give thanks and offer my intentions.  

I also visited Rags 2 Riches at UP Town Center to buy a metal straw. It already comes with a pouch sewn by R2R artisans. As always, I had fun looking around the shop as it features social enterprise brands! 

Then, it was back to UP for me.  

I watched Curiosity, Adventure and Love. 

It is a beautiful documentary about an American centenarian, Nana Jessie, who has called the Philippines her home for most of her life.  

While waiting for the film to begin, I knitted. 

The film’s co-director, Sunshine De Leon, was there to personally introduce her documentary. She is also Nana Jessie’s granddaughter. 

I learned so much about Philippine history just by watching the film. It is a gem of a film, and I highly recommend it!

If you enjoy something, go take it further, like in my case! I made my won scrubbie, ate soul food, prayed, bought from a social enterprise, and watched an independent film. Life is too short to wait for happiness to come your way. Make your own happiness your priority!

Faith, Food, and Film

Luti and I were able to go to Padre Pio Center at Libis, Quezon City yesterday. She is one of my best friends from high school, and we both had intentions to pray for. 

It was a solemn, quiet place of worship. We did not feel like we were still stuck in the city.  

We were able to do some shopping at the chapel store. I stumbled upon these cookies made of leftover bits of host from Dauis, Bohol. I had to buy a few packs to try at home. 

The center has a spacious chapel where masses are held daily. 

We then proceeded to St. Clare Monastery for more prayers. 

We were also able to have our Padre Pio souvenirs blessed by the sister at the convent.  

A hearty lunch at Breakfast Bin followed our prayerful journey.  

Of course, dessert was obligatory thanks to the scorching summer heat. We both had ice cream at Maginhawa favorite, Papa Diddi’s. I had roasted strawberry and ube this time! 

After our meal, I went to UP Cine Adarna to watch my grade school friend Ida Anita del Mundo’s film K’na the Dreamweaver. 

It was a beautiful love letter to the T’boli people and their rich culture.  

Lake Sebu was stunning onscreen! 

There were several scenes of t’nalak weaving, which was my favorite part about this movie. I love local textiles, so I’m all for promoting the art of weaving on film. 

I was fortunate to be able to spend time to pray, appreciate delicious food, and watch a friend’s film. I also had the chance to do so with my friend Luti. Life is definitely more fun with a little help from our friends- and a lot of faith.