“Peace of mind is not the absence of conflict, but the ability to cope with it.” —Scott Hawkins

Suddenly, it’s beginning to look a lot like Christmas! While we like to poke fun at the fact the holidays start in September in the Philippines, we do cherish the time we have to prepare for and anticipate holiday cheer. For those like me who have had a challenging year, the holidays will be my protective bubble, my safe space, albeit temporary! I am making a pact with myself to stay positive and use this time to create new and lasting memories.

If you’re looking for a new and improved identity, one that can provide you with the stability you need before moving forward, well, I don’t think such a thing exists. It is the ability to stretch that inner peace and acceptance of reality that you will need to continue life’s journey. Even if this confusing time is completely dreadful, we all know life is perpetually evolving, and everything can change. It’s up to us to make a positive change or not! We are all on this journey.

Many things may have changed in my life, but the love I have for life, my family and my dearest friends has not changed. My appreciation for all that is good in my life is permanently heightened. We are still living in restricted times, but there is still a silver lining. We are encouraged by smaller intimate gatherings where we can spend quality time with those we care about. Knowing that time is limited and opportunities are few, we make the most of the time we have for meaningful interactions that can hold us warmly until we see other again, which may not be soon enough.

The Thanksgiving holiday is on Nov. 25, and that will be the official start of my holidays. I come into the best season of the year with a renewed appreciation of family, friends and all the blessings, especially just being alive!

I am thankful for the gift of health and well-being. This year, more than at any time in my life, I did and continue to do a lot of self-work—emotionally, mentally, spiritually. I have been blessed with opportunities to learn from and be counseled by the best wellness gurus who have held my hand throughout my healing process. As they say, “When the student is ready, the teachers will come.” This is so true! I thank them all with deep gratitude.

Tough love

With the absence of so many events and parties and external factors, I have refocused on my family. They stand by me every single day, showering me with loyalty, love and affection. I am fully supported with love. There is also tough love, especially from my favorite brother-in-law, and while our conversations can sometimes be stressful, I know, without a doubt, that his heart and love for me are pure.

My children are my rocks. My personal crisis certainly did not go to waste, seeing how it has strengthened and affirmed the bond I have with my children. Yes, I am their mom, but this year they also mothered me when I needed it the most. Just as I have every year, I will make sure the true meaning of Christmas continues in our hearts and in our home. Our traditions of love continue—so let the shopping begin!

Esteemed German furniture brand Kare recently opened its showroom at The Podium, its first in the Philippines.

“We are excited to showcase what’s in store for the Filipino market with the launching of our newest showroom here in the Philippines. We are delighted to give our home décor enthusiasts a kick of inspiration with our unconventional selection of lifestyle pieces and anything but ordinary ideas for their living spaces,” said Ivan Yao during the showroom opening, held at Level 3 of The Podium.

With the opening of its first showroom, Kare brings a breath of fresh air to the country’s urban living sphere. The brand represents a unique mix of furniture, lighting, home accessories and gift articles that will help people showcase their individuality and personality, and to make their home a place where they feel good.

The Kare showroom features a new concept of interior design: furniture and lights, accessories and gifts which come across like art objects. Entering the showroom, customers will discover the diversity of styles and trend inspirations that suit the varying tastes, lifestyles and budgets of Filipino consumers.

Focal points of the launch event were the high-quality and trendy upholstered furniture, staged in the Kare living worlds, and an eclectic collection of lights, accessories and decor that will transform your home into a destination place.

Festive holidays

Feel Christmas in all the super malls of SM! If there is one place where the holidays are so festive, SM Malls are the happy place to be. Every year, SM changes the theme of the décor, and they are all wonderful to visit and feel the happiest season of the year.

For more shopping this weekend, check out the Katutubo PH pop-up at Bench Tower on 30th Street corner Rizal Drive, Bonifacio Global City. Happening this weekend and also from Nov. 26 to Nov. 28, the pop-up features Bench products and designs from Philippine merchants. There will be finds from more than 50 renowned and rising brands perfect for the coming holiday season.

Some products include Pinta + Pika Pika, whose Pinta collection shows an array of artworks reprinted in greeting cards, coasters, plates, trays, etc. Treat yourself to bath and body products from Amparo’s Apothecary.

Like their previous pop-ups, Katutubo PH, in collaboration with Bench, will continue to implement a strict protocol upon entering; social distancing and the use of face mask and shield are required at all times. Furthermore, the management sterilizes and exposes the venue to blue light on a nightly basis before, during and after the pop-up.

The Katutubo X Bench pop-up will be open from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. No entrance fee required. For more information, call or text Marie at tel. 0917-8887879 or visit @katutubopopupmarket on Instagram for updates. You may also check out their official website at shop-katutuboph.com.

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