Our first stop was Chowking, a reliable go-to place whenever you want something savory, quick, and filling. It had been a while since we last dined there, so the familiar flavors of Chinese style comfort food instantly hit the spot. I ordered the classic Beef Chao Fan with siomai on top, while others enjoyed their favorites some had the lauriat meals complete with pancit, fried chicken, and Buchi, while others went with their hot halo-halo for dessert. We were already in good spirits even before the shopping began, laughing over shared bites and appreciating the cool air-conditioned comfort, especially after the warm commute.
After that hearty meal, it was time to start our mission: find some adorable and useful stuff for my little nephew. We made our way to a nearby toy store first. Although he’s still a newborn and won't be playing with most toys just yet, we couldn’t help but marvel at all the soft plush animals, sensory rattles, and colorful baby mobiles. There’s something so heartwarming about seeing rows of toys knowing they’ll soon bring joy and wonder to a child. I picked out a soft, pastel colored plush elephant that plays lullabies when squeezed perfect for calming him during nap time. We also found a tummy time mat with bright colors and gentle textures that would be useful for his early development.
Next, we wandered into a store filled with hair clips and baby accessories. Though my nephew won’t be needing hair clips, of course, we found ourselves browsing through the tiny headbands and cute mittens and socks many in gender-neutral tones and soft materials. There was a small section dedicated to newborn grooming sets complete with nail clippers, brushes, and tiny combs. We picked out a blue-and-white set that came in a handy travel pouch. At the checkout counter, I also grabbed a pack of soft cotton bibs printed with little bears and stars. It’s hard to resist those miniature things when you’re shopping for a baby. Everything looks cuter, softer, and somehow more magical.
What I appreciated about SM Consolacion is the variety of stalls scattered throughout the mall. After hitting the bigger stores, we took time to explore the different pop-up stalls and booths. Some sold locally made baby clothes, others had adorable crocheted items like booties and hats. We stopped by a stall selling hand-sewn pillows and blankets, and I couldn’t help but get a cloud-shaped pillow that’s just the right size for a crib. Another stall had personalized onesies and baby name signs, and we noted them down for future visits once we finalize a nickname for the little one.
We weren’t in a rush, so we leisurely strolled from one end of the mall to the other, often stopping whenever something caught our eye. There was a cute kiosk selling wooden toys and puzzles that made me think about what the baby might like once he grows a little older. It was a reminder of how fast time flies, and how these tiny newborn days will soon be replaced with crawling, walking, and babbling. It made me want to savor the moment even more.
We ended the day by sitting at one of the benches near the entrance, bags in hand and hearts full. I looked around at all the people bustling through the mall families, couples, groups of friends and felt grateful for our simple yet fulfilling day. It wasn’t extravagant or particularly eventful, but it was a day full of intention, care, and excitement for the new chapter in our lives that this baby has brought. There's a special kind of happiness that comes with preparing for someone so small and precious. Every onesie, every toy, every blanket we bought felt like a promise a small act of love for the journey that lies ahead.
As we made our way home, I thought about how days like this are the ones that linger in your memory. Not because of anything grand, but because of how they make you feel close to the people you love, excited for what’s to come, and connected to the gentle rhythm of life’s milestones. Shopping for my newborn nephew wasn't just about getting stuff it was about celebrating a new life and the joy it brings to everyone around him. And for that, I’m thankful .