The beginning of a new year can be a good reminder to slow down, reflect, and be intentional. I’m definitely guilty of needing a good reminder especially because I tend to get preoccupied too easily. Even on my free days, I would find myself mindlessly browsing online. I have to make a conscious effort to pause, take a deep breath, and reflect on my personal and Astig Vegan journey.
As I look back, 2018 proved to be a significant year. It was this year that I married my true love, Chris, and had a vegan Filipino celebration with our loved ones. Preparing for a big wedding was no easy feat. I ended up asking Chris if we could settle for a simpler one. But in true Chris fashion, he double checked if it’s really what I wanted or if I just felt intimidated by the planning process. One thing I learned from him is to be more courageous facing challenges. He said we as humans are more capable than we think. So I persevered with the planning, and with his help (and singing talent), we had one magical wedding we will never forget.
Mid-year, Chris and I went to Paris and Rome for our honeymoon. Both of us had never been to Europe, so we felt beyond ecstatic to visit these two famous cities. Surprisingly, they have vegan-friendly spots. Aside from the delicious food (especially pasta!), we also explored every tourist attraction our tired feet allowed us to. But we also took our time savoring each moment and enjoying each other’s company. Paris enchanted us with its charm while Rome impressed us with its artistry.
ASTIGVEGAN IN 2018
2018 was also a big year for Astig Vegan. With the help of my friends, we shot new video recipes. These recipes include vegan Kaldereta stew, vegan Nilaga soup, Jackfruit in Coconut Milk, and Maja Blanca. Each recipe required a significant amount of hard work to conceptualize, recipe test, write and rewrite, photograph and edit, and video shoot, edit, and upload. But, seeing people from different parts of the world recreate the recipes made it all worth it. I love seeing our vegan community grow. Being part of this vegan Filipino movement is such an honor that I will never take for granted.
Aside from recipe videos, I had the privilege in 2018 to share my recipes at live cooking demonstrations, vegan potlucks, and chef tastings. I worked with community organizers at Asian Art Museum, Sonoma VegFest, San Francisco World VegFest, and many more. With their support, I was able to introduce vegan Filipino recipes to the community. Although public speaking always gets me nervous, I love developing new friendships.
On top of festivals, my friends and I organized events of our own. We held the 2018 Bay Area Vegan Potluck and Kain Vegan Kaibigan Potluck. These two potlucks served as an opportunity for us to cook for each other. But it also extended our welcome to omnivores who may want to try something vegan. We were thrilled that people came out and participated.
Although Astig Vegan had a full year of shooting videos and holding live events, it seems like 2019 still has so much more in store. Already the first two months are filling up fast with commitments. Also, very soon, I will take one giant career leap. Wish me luck! I will have more details soon.
For now, I would like to pause, unplug (a little) from the Internet, and spend more quality time with my family and friends. And when life gets busy again, my goal is to be more present with each task. In 2019, I hope to be more mindful, grateful, and courageous. May we all reach our goals and aspirations this new year.
Happy 2019 to you and your loved ones. Cheers to new beginnings and pressing that reset button. See you next year!