Unburned

Hello Old Friend, I recently watched something that brought back memories of a bitter ending. It reminded me of how someone was deceived and manipulated, completely unaware that it would shatter hopes and faith. It's heartbreaking to witness such pain and betrayal. Yeah, it's been a while, and there are things I need to get off my chest - some stuff on my mind that I gotta spill. So here goes...

You know, looking back, I can't help but realize how much I've been deceived by you. I trusted you with all my might, but you let me down in a big way, big time! I found out about some shady stuff you pulled behind my back, and it hurt like hell. The pain of betrayal was intense, it stings man! I won't lie; I felt the urge to take revenge or make you feel the pain you caused me. But then, I took a step back and thought, "Nah, I'm better than that." I decided against sinking to that level of pettiness. I don't want to be consumed by anger or seek vengeance. It's time to leave the drama behind. I don't want to be dragged down to that level of pettiness. Holding grudges and seeking revenge wouldn't make me happier or heal the hurt. It's time to leave all that drama in the past. So, I decided to move forward, focusing on those who truly care for me. Toxicity has no place in my life, and forgiveness is my path to healing. I deserve to let go of that burden - and I did! I've come to realize that life is too precious to dwell on negativity, and I'm done with that chapter. I've chosen to forgive, not because it's deserved, but because I deserve to let go of that burden. I'm done being consumed by anger and negativity. Life's too short for that nonsense. I'm leaving that chapter behind.

This letter signifies my closure, a reminder that I took a step towards a brighter future. I put the bitter past all behind me. And you know what? I did it! No regrets.

Perhaps our paths will cross again, and things will be different. Until then, I wish you well, but from a distance. Peace out!

Keeping It Real vs. Faking It

How do you spot on real vs. fake people? You know, those who show their true selves and those who put on a front? Yeah, that stuff.

So, here's the deal: real peeps are all about being genuine, flaws and all. They're not afraid to show their true colors and don't put on a show just to impress others. On the flip side, the fake crew puts on a whole act to seem perfect, cool, or whatever they think will get them more likes and followers.

Social media has turned into this virtual playground where everyone's busy faking it. We see these polished profiles that scream perfection, but deep down, we all know it's not real. And hey, let's admit it – sometimes we're guilty of it too, right?

But hold up! Let's talk about the allure of being fake. It's tempting to put on that filter, post that one selfie out of fifty, and get all those compliments flooding in. It's like a confidence boost on steroids! But let's be real (pun intended) – relying on fake personas can't be good for our mental health and relationships.

Talking about relationships, it's hard to navigate when you're not sure who's genuine and who's just putting on an act. Trust is essential in any connection, and when you catch someone faking it, it's a major letdown. We want relationships that are built on honesty, right? That's how we roll.

But, fret not! There's hope. More and more people are starting to embrace authenticity. They're breaking free from the chains of pretense and daring to be vulnerable. You know what? It's kinda awesome! Being real brings us closer together, and we can form kickass connections when we're true to ourselves.

So, how do we spot the fakes? Look out for the ones who exaggerate stuff, can't keep their story straight, and never show any vulnerable side. If someone's always picture-perfect with no hiccups, well, that's a red flag, my friends.

Let's ditch the pressure to be perfect. Nobody is! Embracing our imperfections makes us more relatable and down-to-earth. It's about being okay with who we are, no matter what. When we show our true selves, it's like a breath of fresh air in this sea of fakeness.

To wrap it up, let's be real with each other. Life's messy, but that's what makes it beautiful. Embrace the realness in yourself and others. Let's build relationships based on trust, empathy, and just being genuine badasses. Together, we can make this world a more authentic and kickass place!

KDrama Wonderland

Hi, fellow K-Drama addict! I've been very busy binge watching Korean Drama lately. And darn, why they're so freakin' awesome?

These K-Dramas know how to tug at our heartstrings like no other! They make us laugh, cry, and even scream at the screen! It really is emotion overload.

Oh, the kilig moments and the lovey-dovey vibes! Those on-screen couples have undeniable chemistry that's off the charts and leaves us swooning. It's like a love explosion in our hearts! Their love is like a beautiful burst of emotions, filling our hearts with joy!

K-Dramas got those family feels down pat! The family dynamics are so relatable – just like our own crazy but lovable clans! It's like they've mastered the art of evoking those heartwarming family feels!

When those characters overcome challenges and follow their dreams, we feel like we can conquer the world too!

It's like a cultural exchange party! We get to learn about Korean traditions and locations, and it's just so fascinating!

After a long day, there's nothing better than escaping into a K-Drama wonderland. It's like a mini-vacay for our minds! A refreshing mental getaway!

To all K-Drama enthusiasts, keep binge-watching, fangirling, and sharing the love for Korean dramas! Aja! Fighting!

Mother’s Day

Happy Mother’s day to all Moms out there whether you are past, present and soon to be Moms. You are all amazing. ❤️

My Angel Baby

I still remember you everyday, every night, each time I look up in the sky, when I look at the stars, when I hear a song, when I see a new place, certain smell… when I look at your brothers… You’re always remembered. 🥹

You will never leave my heart. Held you for only a few moments but I will love you for a lifetime, JT👼❤️ #babyangel

A woman’s loyalty is tested when her man has nothing. A man’s loyalty is tested when he has everything. 👍 Go where you’re loved. Don’t stay where you’re just needed.🫰

2022 Year End Musings

January

Started the year with an amazing surprise. This plant accidentally grew in my backyard which costs around 300-500. Didn’t even sweat! I’d like to believe it’s a blessing of something new and beginnings. Our thoughts and beliefs shape our reality, and by choosing positive perspectives, we create a foundation for success and happiness.

Kiddos were really having fun watching their favorite movies and series with the new television gifted by the husband last Christmas. As always, we had an intimate birthday celebration for the husband at home.

February

Started the week with a devastating news. I didn’t know how I was able to keep it all inside. My mind was furiously screaming. It was a test of patience and endurance.

Setting aside my personal issues, I was very blessed with sales in my online shop. I never knew I could hit twice to thrice my markup. Thank God, my personal hobby turn to biz was a success.

Welcome aboard to our new Honda Airblade. It's the husband’s 2nd motorcycle. Gifted him him with the downpayment, then he paid the rest for 3 months.

Birthdays are not merely about the number of candles on a cake but a celebration of life's magnificent gift. Yup! Another year of life. Celebrated another year of existence with the people who matter to me the most.  Despite numerous challenges, my heart is always grateful for all the blessings. My birthday always serves as a reminder of all the blessings and opportunities to spread kindness and joy to others.

March

It was time for our Fortune and Echo for pms. It was great to have it at home. I thought it would be expensive, yet the price is affordable.

The kids got their first shot of covid vaccine. So proud of my kiddos. I was expecting tantrums and all, but they were really brave. 🥰🙏

April

Despite the husband’s rants to me NOT to drive our car/s due to previous ‘minor scratches’ from my driving, I enrolled at SmartDriving to gain my confidence back. I already have a non-pro, but I tend to get distracted with trucks and buses on the road. But, all’s well. I passed with flying colors.

May

Steering wheel and life both carry significant symbolic meaning of the power we hold to direct our own paths, adapt, find balance, and grow. 

And finally, had the courage to drive alone. It was sooooooo relaxing… I have always wanted to take control of the stirring wheel and discover unexplored destinations. I am strong willed individual but there were some people who influenced me in the past NOT to take charge, which subconsciously took away that confidence and belief in me. 

Fortune’s maintenance and upgrades. Considered keeping it because of many shared memories with the family. But yeah, Money burns. 😅

First family lunch out at Leslie’s Tagaytay. The husband really insisted to dine there. Just a throwback, we went there when we were just starting our family. Little did we know it would cost us to eat there, and he really wanted their famous specialty bulalo. We didn’t have enough. So to cut it short, it was more of a ‘we’re back with the vengeance’ thing for the husband. But all worth it. 

Funny how the lockdown lifted few months before the elections. Maybe it did good not only to the economy, but also to our mental health.

Majority decided - BBM won the Presidency. I just don't understand why friends and families turn to enemies because they were fighting for different candidates. ☺️  Yes, we are free to make a stand. But let's not forget at the end of the day, we all need Peace. Love. Respect.

June

Time and good friends are two things that become more valuable the older you get.  Good Times + Good (Crazy) Friends + Good Laughs + Good Place + Good Food = Good Amazing Memories. TLS Batch 13 Homecoming is definitely one for the books. 🥰☺️

Multiple road trips celebrations with the family. Harry Potter birthday party theme for my youngest kid and Superhero theme coupled with pool party for the older brother. They were really happy and contented. 

July

My cousins from Italy came home for a month long vacation. Had several meetups and catch ups with our high school classmates and friends, samgyup eat outs, shopping, coffee dates and road trips with the cousins. We really maximize their stay.

August

As the world gradually returns to a sense of normalcy, the reopening of schools for face-to-face classes marks a significant change for both children and parents.  

It's time to dust off trolleys, backpacks, sharpen those pencils, and get ready to dive back into face-to-face classes after the lockdown! 

Preparations for the kiddos' back to school face to face classes gave me so much anxieties. Just the thought of them staying at school from morning to afternoon. There's still an unknown threat of covid 19 out there. But the school gave us parents assurance that they are covid 19 ready with the safety precautions.

September

Spent quality time with the husband at ATC. We have not been going out as a couple for months. When we do, it's always with the family. It's kind of refreshing to have our own time away from the kids sometimes.

Finally, got a hand of our passports. Started planning of the country trips which was delayed due to pandemic.

October

Blended learning for the kids. At first, I had separation anxiety especially on their first day of going back to school. It was really mixed emotions. It was like sending them to school for the first time during their kinder years. For the past 24 months or more, I've been used to seeing them attending online classes at home. The adjustment wasn't that simple, yet I embraced the changes. The kiddos to go out frequently.

November

After enduring a prolonged period of separation due to the global lockdown, we've finally getting the opportunity to come together and create lasting memories once again. We're gradually getting our lives back after pandemic.

Spent more quality time with the family over roadtrips, shopping, dine in at restaurants/samgyup. Every week we opted to go the supermarket for our a week's groceries or sometimes for 2 weeks. 

Lockdown taught us not to take our loved ones for granted. Every moment spent with family now feels like a precious gift. Whether it's engaging in meaningful conversations over a leisurely meal or embarking on adventures together, we are learning to cherish and express gratitude for the time we have with each other.

December

First holy communion of the kiddos. Due to the lockdown during pandemic, they missed out having it. Of course, when they grow older, they will have the freedom to choose what they believe in. But as a Catholic Christian, it is very important for them to receive for the first the body and blood of Christ. 

The kiddos surely remember the special day for the rest of their life. As parents, we couldn't be more proud and happy. 

December is a month full of celebrations. Not only the kiddos had the chance to spend Christmas Party with the classmates and teachers again after 2 years of lockdown, I also had the opportunity to share dinner and exchange gifts with my colleagues at work.

During the lockdown, many of us found solace in the digital world. It's a milestone how we emerged from isolation. We detached from our screens and focused on being fully present with our family. Bonds are strengthened that may have been temporarily strained. 

The pandemic may have dimmed the holiday spirit, but as families come together after the lockdown, we had our ways to reignite the magic of Christmas. The joy and laughter we shared during these moments filled our hearts with warmth and reminded us of the resilience of the human spirit.

As the new year approaches, we stand at the threshold of limitless possibilities. Let us step into 2023 with open hearts, embracing the opportunities that lie before us and forging a path of growth, fulfillment, and purpose. 

 

Here’s to a new chapter. 
I hope this new year brings you… 
Courage to try again. 
Passion for doing what you love. 
Ambition to aim higher. 
Resilience in overcoming obstacles. 
Humility to learn from others. 
Kindness for yourself and others.
Welcome 2023!