FUN THINGS TO DO DURING WINTER

Somebody asked me if do I ever get depressed during winter. I answered with a smile, my head shaking, and a "no-why-would-I-be?" face. I get it, it's so easy to sulk and be bored during the winter months. However, like many other things in life, it's totally up to you! Happy or sad. Half-empty or half-full. Positive or negative. What I know for sure is if you surround yourself with happy, half-full, positive people, you'll be like them in no time! The opposite is also true so choose wisely.

BAKE

I recently discovered the joys of baking (and cooking). I've always been intimidated by the thought of me doing stuff in the kitchen but it turned out to be fun. My latest addiction is baking oatmeal, chia-based cookies. Let me know if you want a recipe! It's not as difficult plus it allows me to be creative. And, I mean, it's nice to be artsy and eat your 'art' creations too! Weekends are for home cooked meals and baking during winter. You'll be surprised on how time flies when you're in the kitchen. Cookies and coffee, ahhh, what's not to love?

READ

If there's a bookstore nearby, why not pop in and have a window shopping? I've made a promise to myself that I'll read at least one book a month this year. The funny thing about the digital world is it makes our attention span like that of a fish. Gone are the days when we can concentrate to one, specific task. We live in a world where we constantly search for entertainment every 2 minutes. I'm trying my best to go on a digital detox whenever I can. For starters, turn off your phone when you are personally catching up with someone you love. 

PLAN

Whether it's your summer holiday or goals for the year. Why not take out your notepad and pen. I am most creative outside the computer screen. I am still old school in terms of planning. I feel like I am in control when I write my goals. You don't need to write everything, start off with three simple things that you want to achieve and expand from there.

LONG BATH

It's winter! What a good excuse to have a long, warm bath on a Saturday afternoon. The sound of water relaxes me. Sometimes I apply my oatfix mask while soaking in the tub. Tip: Apply coconut oil on your hair as well for that luscious glow. I go all out when I do long baths. I shave. I have bath bombs. I apply shower gel (Snow Fairy from Lush is heavenly!).

QUALITY TIME

My favourite coffee shop is Pret A Manger. Picture above is taken from Coffee #1 (that's the name). It's in Bristol, England. The sight of coffee and a cosy place is all that it takes for me to wind down and just reflect. I am no stranger to coffee places. Even when I was in Manila, I always stop by at Contis or Mary Grace to just chill and do nothing. Indeed, some things never change.

Before you know it, spring is just around the corner and sunset will be once again at 10:00 pm. WOOHOO. Who's excited? -CMK