Hey, everyone! Before I begin with the updates, I'd like to greet y'all a happy new year. I know it's overdue but still warranted, right? I know the blog has been quiet for some time now. In between my little space on the internet and the real world, haven't really had enough time to sort my shit together especially during the holidays. But I've cooked up a surprise to make up for that; and a bunch of updates just so you all know I haven't gone missing or six feet under. Ready? Ready!

1. SCHOOL. Majority of what has taken up my time over the past few months would be school. I remember mentioning before that I decided to take on Graduate School because hey, when are we going to start doing something for our goals? It's fun and exhilarating, but the level of difficulty, I just cannot. I'm good with most of my subjects as long as there's no numbers involved. My god, why am I so bad with numbers?? Haha! Luckily, I passed all my subjects last semester so all good, bruh. 

2. ENROLLMENT. So, still related to school. After the holidays, I went back to Manila a few days early so I can start working on b/vlog backlogs and also finish my enrollment. I was able to finish enlisting all my subjects but I spent the rest of my vacation just sleeping and drinking since I wasn't able to drink at home over the holidays, lol. I think I'm allowed to slack a bit before school and work officially starts. 

3. HOLIDAY RUSH. And when I say rush, I mean every bit of the word. Unlike last year, I had work until the 22nd which means no extra time for buying gifts and other last minute errands. I was also partly in charge of the household since my Mom just got out of the hospital and couldn't really move around. I initially planned on doing my blog backlogs at home but oh well, life comes first. 

4. WORK. Also had to deal with a lot of ~pahabol~ work before the holiday break which, again, meant no time for the blog. I've been really active on Instagram stories though 'cause that's the closest thing I can get to telling you if the food is good whenever I try something new, lol. I haven't even uploaded a new photo on Instagram since November, can you imagine, lol. 

5. FRIENDS AND FAMILY. I've also been devoting most of my time to my family and friends. My mom recently got sick and had to undergo several major and minor operations. I've also been needing constant support from my friends because of everything that's been going on with my life and I couldn't be more thankful. You know the kind of friends who'd drop everything with just one text because they know and feel how much you need them? Yes, those friends. Thank you for making my year tolerable and memorable!

I have a ton of things to be thankful for, like having the financial capacity to pursue further studies while still being able to help my sister out with her own studies, my Mom's successful operation, continuous career growth at work, a solid group of friends who will take a bullet for me, good grades despite being too rusty with memorizing things, new places I've explored and of course, all the new culinary adventures I was able to take on--all because of you guys. 2017 was indeed a blast and I'm doing this giveaway as a simple thank you. To each reader who manages to go through my lengthy posts, to every follower who never fails to check up the blog for new posts, to every subscriber who reminds me that they miss me and they wish a new video would come out--THANK YOU. My heart is full and content. Soooo, enough of the lengthy text, on to the mechanics of the giveaway!

• Fill out the Rafflecopter below. 
• Open to Philippine residents only. Non-bloggers are welcome. 
• Giveaway starts on January 18, 2018 and ends on January 25, 2018.
• I'll announce the winner on January 28, 2018 over at my Facebook page. 
• I'll be taking care of shipping and handling, but I won't be responsible for damaged/lost parcels.
a Rafflecopter giveaway

And that's it! I've prioritized the subscription to my Youtube Channel because Youtube recently came up with a new policy that if you're unable to reach 1,000 followers, you won't be able to monetize your channel anymore. And while content is more important than money, my Youtube earnings help me fund my food and travel adventures which means more useful content for you guys so I hope you don't mind that bit of the giveaway. Drop by a line in the comments section if you have any questions! Again, wishing everyone a happy new year and goodluck! ❤

1. My acne situation is a little better. I’ve gone to a dermatologist at The Medical City and I’ve been religiously following every advice she’s giving me. I’m currently taking Accutane and I have a strict skin care routine. I have also been undergoing several procedures on my face since my case is hormonal and can’t just be treated with topical treatments. I’ve been spending a lot and it’s waaaaay out of my budget, but I have to do this ‘cause I have a client-facing job. Huhu I’m currently dealing with acne marks, so if you have recommendations, I would greatly appreciate it!

2. My skin ~looks~ and ~feels~ healthy! I mean, beyond the acne marks, I can feel that it’s so soft and smooth. Moisturizing really does pay off! I’ve also been trying to drink more water despite my unhealthy habit of just drinking one glass a day ‘cause I don’t like the fact that it’s tasteless, lol. I’m also trying really, really hard to quit smoking so I can help my skin out. 

3. I’m in school again! I’ve been mulling over the thought of going back to school but during the first few years of my working life, the schedule was very challenging. When I transferred to a different company, I was purely having fun enjoying work-life balance that I completely forgot about it. But now, back to my goals of finally pursing a master’s degree. I’m currently only taking pre-masteral classes, but hey, it’s a step towards achieving this old dream. <3 p="">

And there you have it! I know it's a lot, got a bit tired trying to remember everything too, lol. I won't promise to make this a weekly thing, you know what, I'll just make it happen so I don't disappoint you guys with false promises. Whatever happens, I'm pretty sure there will always be something to be thankful for. Have an awesome weekend, my loves!

 I love the fact that I've been getting a lot of sponsorship opportunities lately, and that most of them really cater to my audience, and of course, me! I try to make each post as personal as possible so as not to lose touch that you're still reading x post based on the thoughts of a real person. But somehow when I look at all the posts I've done, I feel there's something missing when I scroll through my blog's feed. Then I realize I haven't been posting about what I've been up to lately! Despite the blog focusing on food and travel, I'd still want to make it a point to post about what's going on with me lately. 

This blog started as a personal blog and I love putting in bits and pieces of what's happening to me every once in a while. I also like looking back to the things I've posted, nostalgia yknow. And what's the point of all these food reviews and travels if I don't even get to read about what's been happening to me some xx years later? Lol, and yes, I do read my blog--quite often actually. Is that weird? Anyway, I think it has been months since my last quick update, so let me take you in on a few things that happened to me this February!

1. Valentines date with the boyfriend!

Prior to being a relationship with this guy, I never really celebrated Valentines Day 'cause I've always seen it as a capitalist social construct. Man, but this guy--he just makes me do things I didn't imagine ever doing, haha! Last year he surprised me with a Japanese feast (my favorite), balloons and flowers at the roof deck of their home in Tagaytay. I'm not used to shit like that, so this year, I decided to surprise him instead. Haha! Nothing fancy, just an all-out romantic dinner at Resorts World Manila called Dine Under The Stars--and he loved it. I also loved it because I did it 2 weeks before V-day, haha! No horrible traffic anywhere and prices are 3x cheaper than the actual V-day, lol. Will also post about this soon!

2. Exploring Korean Skin care. 

I'm currently experiencing the worst breakout of my life. Before this tragedy hit me, I would always go into the office without makeup on--just my cheek tint and lip tint. Oh, and my baby powder. My friends would actually laugh at my kikay kit, But now, I have to put concealer and foundation to cover up my scars because my job is client-facing, huhu. Around June last year, I started breaking out like crazy. I'm on my 7th month of jumping from one dermatologist to another because they can't seem to figure out the cause. I've lost a lot of money, and now, I'm in the process of testing Korean Skin care products after thorough research. They're expensive AF, but so far, my skin's reacting positively. More about this when I finally gather the courage to post about my acne story!

3. Eating healthy. 

Ever since my skin broke out last year, I've been trying to eat healthy. For a few months, I always insisted my diet had nothing to do with it since it has always been that way. But hey, what do I know? I guess my body chemistry change and it does now. With that, I've been making my own home-cooked meals to be sure that I only consume things that will eventually help me get rid of this horrendous breakout. 

4. Reuniting with a friend. 

After almost 8 years of not seeing each other, one of my best buds from college finally came back to the Philippines! She moved to NY after graduation and we haven't seen each other ever since. We stayed in contact of course, but nothing beats having to see her in the flesh--and hugging the guts out of her 'cause I missed her so much. 

5. Condo hunting!

I know, I know, at this age I should've accomplished more, right? I believe we all progress at our own pace. I have responsibilities at home which is why it took me several years before finally deciding to buy my own place. And it is damn hard! Primarily because I really want a house. No matter how nice the interiors are, I just can't seem to see myself investing money in a shoe box. But yknow, it's the most practical and feasible option as of the moment since most business districts are located either in Makati, BGC or Ortigas. Prices are sky high but we all gotta adult somehow. 

6. Unlimited Crab!

The boyfriend and I recently reviewed this amazing place that offers unlimited crab for such an affordable price. If you follow me on Instagram or Twitter, you'd already know the place. But if not, stay tuned because I'll be posting it in a few weeks. Ack, yes, sorry. In a few weeks because I still have a ton of back logs to finish, hehe.

7. Eating sushi and sashimi!

Because I've been saving up for my own place, one of the things I had to cut back was my Japanese food budget, lol. Before, the boyfriend and I would make it a point to eat Sashimi at least once a week. And you know how the prices go. Last weekend though, my sister who's studying in Baguio decided to visit me here and I think it was the perfect occasion for some sashimi, haha.

8. In love with the boyfriend's nephew. 

I've always said that I love babies--but only if they're not mine. That still rings true to this day. The boyfriend's sister-in-law gave birth to this adorable baby in December. And we've been babysitting him as much as we can during weekends. It's been 4 months of interesting weekends with this cutiepatootie, and to be honest, I don't mind the milk he pukes on me every time he gets too full. Or when he farts quietly it stinks up the whole room, haha!

9. New friends!

Last year, I joined an event in the office and had a chance to know these amazing individuals. My job is in no way related to theirs, heck I don't even speak the kind of technical language they do. One person from the group does Mathematics (which I hate,btw), and the others are on IT and Electronics Engineering, lol. But to the core, we do have a couple of similarities and that's knowing how to have a good time which we've been doing quite a lot lately, haha. Cheers to new friends!

And there you have it. I know I said quick update, but I just realized there's so much I haven't been sharing with you guys. Not that a lot of people would read this. But, as always my question would be, would I read this xxx years after? And the answer is yes. I don't just solely write for the people who read my blog, I also write for myself. Is that weird? Either way, it makes me happy. I just hope you enjoy reading it as much as I do. 'Til next time, lovelies!

And there you have it. Most of the items in here involve my boyfriend because to be honest, he inspired me a lot in the past year. When he tells me the stories about everything he has been through when he got sick a few years back, my problems seem so meager all of a sudden—it’s like anything is possible as long as he’s beside me. Ugh, too cheesy! Before I go all out dramatic on this post, I shall end it here. I have an upcoming boyfriend appreciation post lined up, lol! Hope you guys had an awesome holiday vacation as much as I did. For now, back to the hustle and bustle of the metro. Here’s to making awesome memories this 2017. Cheers!

I know I promised my birthday video several posts ago, but to be honest, I was a bit reluctant to share it. I haven't even shared this on my Facebook timeline, lol. It's fun for me to watch it because these are my precious birthday moments. Can't say the same for those who will be viewing it as it's not informative in any way. It's also not a ~vlog~ per se, since it's just a compilation of the fun moments we've had during our stay. But after thinking through it, what the hell, right? I love looking at the memories I create or have created, regardless if they make me cringe or not. I may delete this in the future, or not. For now, I'm keeping it up.

I'll be writing mote about my day on a separate blog post. The resort that we stayed in was wonderful. We got lost on our way home, but never mind that. I had an awesome time with the best person I could've spent my birthday with! Regardless of my current weight (I've gained a lot, btw), this birthday is definitely one for the books! :)

Aaaah, it's finally Friday! And while I still have a busy weekend ahead of me, I'm still glad I'll be able to drink until the wee hours of the morning later. Well, not that I didn't do that last Wednesday; the only difference is, I get to stay in bed for 12hrs since it's a Saturday tomorrow. Yasssss! I'm thrilled to share with everyone some itty-bitty details about my week. Let's begin!

1. Writing opportunities. A few months ago, I decided to rekindle my love for writing by being active again in a certain site I used to write for. I also started blogging more about my food adventures and travels! I just have to schedule my posts and my blog will have consistent content in no time! Note to self : don't be seduced by food. Learn how to document first before taking a bite, lol!

2. Event invites! I've been receiving several invites to do food reviews and attend brand events lately. The food reviews I have no problem doing since it’s something I’m addicted to – taking photos and eating! The event invites on the other hand, I don’t attend most of them because I get intimidated by other attendees (i.e Fashion influencers, popular bloggers, etc,). I sort of have this feeling that I won’t fit in which is why I usually turn them down. Still thankful though for the opportunities though!

3. Savings and Investments! I’ve been saving for something for about two months now, and hopefully by August, I’ll be able to finally see the result of hours of sweat and blood, I kid, haha! I’ve been trying to spend less on Sashimi since it takes a whole lot on my monthly paycheck.

4. Made an amateur wedding video! The boyfriend’s brother got wed two weeks ago. I took a few clips here and there and put it all together, it’s like our gift for the newlyweds, haha. Since we’re both saving up for something, we had to be creative with our wedding gift! I’m attaching the video; let me know what you think! 

 I am not a good person, which I know for a fact. After the Outreach, I can’t say I will be good one. All I can promise is that I’ll try to help as much as I can. I may not have much, but I know it’s more than enough to help those who need it more than I do.  I hope you guys can find it in your hearts to help out, with whatever you can. For donations and visits, you can contact Mommy Ludy at +639175022529. You can also find a list of their needs at their Facebook page.

WAAAAAH! I haven't blogged in over a week and I feel guilty! I was supposed to have all this set with queued posts but I was extremely busy a week before taking my vacation hence the absence of posts. Anyhoo, I've been out on vacation for a week and got back to Manila yesterday. This will only be a quick update of my whereabouts, just to let you guys know that I'm still alive! LOL. 

1 | My trip to Cebu finally pushed through! The boyfriend and I were reluctant to go through with it due to the APEC hullabaloo but luckily, we weren't affected! Our flights weren't cancelled and the traffic going back home from NAIA was a breeze! Thank you, universe. 

2 | This is my first out of town trip with this guy! Somehow I can tell, this will be the first of many breathtaking places we'll explore together. He was able to get survive my crazy moments when traveling. And I tell you, I'm extra cranky and bitchy when traveling!

3 | Our boat on the way to the Whaleshark feeding area! The commute from Mactan to Tan-Awan, Oslob was fun! Rode the bus and a habal-habal to get to our destination. 

4 | The main reason we went to Cebu; to watch the gentle giants! This was an out of this world experience. I was really scared to dive at first because I easily forget my swimming skills whenever there's a foreign entity beside me. The whale shark swam right below my feet and I can feel it but the guide told me not move because it will startle the whale shark! More about this on my next post!

5 | This is the view in front of our resort. Amenities and room-wise, this wasn't the best place at the price we agreed upon. But with this view, I wouldn't have it any other way. 

6 | The rest of our Cebu trip in a nutshell, hahaha! After Oslob, we spent most of our time looking for the best places to eat Lechon! The entire trip, I think 80% of the meals we had were Lechon! We even had Lechon at the airport. OMG so good! 

7 | After Cebu, went to Baguio with the boyfriend and his family. It was tiring as we just got back from a wonderful Cebu trip. But I also missed Baguio so much couldn't bear to waste energy sleeping!

8 | The birthday boy and his birthday cake from Vizcos! Took him out on a date after celebrating with his family. Had coffee at Cafe Will. We were supposed to go to La Casa Bianca but they close at 10PM. We finished dinner late because I went batshit crazy at the Outlet store in John Hay, hahaha. 

9 | Concluding one week of vacation with my birthday boy at The Manor in Camp John Hay. Had fun touring my favorite boy in my favorite city! PS You're probably wondering why I'm wearing a sweater and short shorts in cold freaking Baguio?? This used to be my usual get up in college! I find it comfortable until now, haha. 

With all those bullets, still couldn't summarize how happy I am this week. Yes, I may have had a few fights with the boyfriend but nothing a hug couldn't fix. I think taking trips and vacations with your loved one improves your relationsip. They get to see you ta your best...and worst! Glad to have survived this trip despite my apprehensions. I'm recharging for tomorrow's work. I can only imagine the butt load of e-mails I have to go through tomorrow, LOL. Have an awesome Sunday!

I gave my blog another make over! The recent one I worked on didn't really sit well with me. While it was responsive and detailed, I felt that it didn't really show who I am. I'm also getting rid of articles that make me cringe! I started this as a personal blog, posting details about my life that no one's really interested in. And while I did have loyal readers who stuck with me, I'd like to be more useful by sharing things that are relevant. I have over 500+ entries on the blog and some of the articles I've posted before don't make sense. I end up blurting, "What the hell was I thinking when I posted that?". I'm also deleting a gazillion useless labels! I'm still in the process of revising my past posts. I'm doing it on a per task basis like get rid of the useless labels first, then make sure my photos are all arranged neatly, then re-check my grammar! My god, I don't know how those booboo's got past me when I usually proof read before I post. Anyhoo, I'm not going to bore you with the nitty gritties. I hope the new layout makes reading my posts easier. I've also made commenting more accessible so thengaging with my readers will be painless.

I actually bought a template on Etsy and it's all sorts of pretty! But I didn't code it, I didn't customize it, I DIDN'T CREATE IT. HTML and CSS are things unknown to me before I started blogging, but I'm learning the ropes. Don't get me wrong, I didn't necessarily start from scratch. I used a base theme and worked from there. I think I secretly want to make things harder for me so that enjoying the fruits of my labor would be more pleasurable. I can't explain the feeling but I can't stop looking at it! I keep on refreshing the page and I just stare. Ugh, what's wrong with me. Anyway, I don't have a place for that template anymore so I might give it away. Stay tuned!

On Love

Pretext : This ship has sailed a long time ago. My love life is public to my friends a lot of people because I'm extremely affectionate online and offline. I'm not posting because I owe anyone an explanation. I just want to make sure I bridge the gap and you don't think I'm a slut jumping from one relationship to another, haha. My relationship of 7 years ended last December. It was painful, heartbreaking, extremely difficult and overwhelmingly upsetting. Imagine getting out of your comfort zone and facing this cruel world alone. Then imagine that happening on Christmas and New Year--that time of year when majority of the world is celebrating the holidays while getting fat. I felt like Will Smith in I Am Legend, but without his best friend dog. Which is totally fine because I hate dogs. It was an ugly break up. I will not go into details but I will say that trust is very important in a relationship. I don't even need to write that down since Elite Daily and Thought Catalog makes sure we don't forget. 

Just like any other thing in this world, I believe in the saying, "If you're unhappy--leave." There's nothing happy about leaving something or someone, but there's always a proper way out.That experience taught me that leaving your comfort zone isn't all that bad. You don't have to face this cruel world like Will Smith when you can be Taylor Swift in Bad Blood. Fuck, did I just make a TS reference? Uhm, okay. My point is, there's nothing to worry about when have your squad, your best friends and your family with you. I think I was greatly affected by what happened because I hate change. But now, my perspective on change has changed (lol) significantly. It will always be difficult but I'm glad I'm learning to embrace it; whether at work or in my personal life. I still have trust issues until now but I will eventually get over it. 

With that, I'm closing a chapter of my life and venturing into a new one. I'm a little relieved that I've let that one out. Here's to my revamped blog and a better version of myself. I don't want to say version 2.0 because I'd like to believe every version of myself is always the best that I try to be. Fuck, that's so melodramatic I have to stop. I don't want to see this 2 years from now and end up reverting it to draft, haha! From where I am, there's no way but to move forward.