2013: In Retrospect

Pardon the lengthy post. I figured I needed the right motivation to start a blog. Well, this isn’t the first time actually. In fact, I’ve been writing for life. I write for a living.

I have this pang of regret every time I look at my social media accounts and photos. My 2013 might be just one of the best years of my life. It would have been nice if I started blogging January last year. I would have chronicled my days, wrote reviews and delved in random discussions. Nevertheless, I've learned my lesson. So, here I am--writing this post. :p

As I look back, I realized one big paradox: IT’S A BIG AND SMALL WORLD AFTER ALL. I would say big because there’s really more to life than being contained inside the four walls of a room. I would say small because the more people I meet, the more I discover a few solid connections.

To you reader, I may be a stranger. Perhaps an acquaintance. Or maybe a colleague. This post may scream nostalgia, melodrama and whatnot. I’ll try not to sound self-absorbed. But I do hope in a way, I can inspire you to live your life to the fullest… and to live it one day at a time.

So, what have I really done last year?

1. I took lots of photos. Like a lot. From shameless selfies to thought-provoking photos, I grabbed the nearest camera and never hesitated to document every aspect of my being. Note: I know selfies can be annoying, and yes—I have developed a more tactful approach to social media etiquette after some time.

Oh how I miss my thigh gap. Sigh.

2. I dared to get shawty. Believe me, I didn’t want my hair cut. It wasn’t until I discovered I need to let go at least 2/3 of my frail-looking, battered tresses. I got mixed reactions. Anyway, I needed a new look for the new (or past) year. I need a new me. There. #chos

Because duckface is too mainstream.

3. I bought my own phone. This smartphone was actually one of the motivations why I went unpaid OT for the first part of the year. Wait, what… unpaid? Well, I needed to raise my word count at work so I could get signed up for the long-term contract and get my hands on that hard-earned sign-up bonus. :p

4. I was surprised by my college pals on my 22^nd birthday. Things do come when you least expect it. Since I’m past college, I anticipated my friends would go on with their lives. Less messages coming from them. Less phone calls. But when you really have a quality pack behind your back, you’ll know they’d let you know you’re special in some way.

Didn't really expect this set of people to show up. I love 'em soooo much. :3

5. I tried my hand at singing onstage. Singing has always been one of my frustrations. I can’t say I’m a showman myself. I shied away from stages since 2^nd year high school after that one fateful incident. The good thing is I firmly believe I can and I still have the chops to do it. So when opportunities came in last year, I embraced them with open arms. And I am forever thankful to my good friend for introducing me to the vibrant local music scene last November 2011.

That's really nice of you guys... a mountain goat in a banner. :p

6. I met the love of my life. Sure thing. After a traumatic, short-lived romance in the past year, I gradually stood up from the ruins of a dysfunctional relationship. No. I realized I needed to love myself first before anything else. When the pieces finally mended and healed, I figured I was ready to love again. This time with a great man. And boy, I am really that lucky. I’m not sure what fate hands me yet, but I really hope this time I won’t be spending most of my nights with a tear-drenched pillow and heavy conversations with BFFs over the phone.

2013 Bonnie and Clyde

7. I had a love and hate relationship with writing. Being a content writer isn’t easy. No matter how understandable and searchable the topic is, it always boils down to your motivation. I was never known for consistency. But I have to admit—I love writing. There’s nothing more therapeutic than having to write (or type) your thoughts down. Although my job requires me to write something like “Outrageous Purchases Done by Online Shoppers” or “Internet Marketing 101”, I’m very grateful I landed with this kind of job—for the things I’ve learned and for being part of a company filled with kind-hearted and caring people.

8. I realized a lot about financial literacy. Self-help books are the thing of the past—at least for me. Now, I’ve moved on to Rich Dad, Poor Dad, Entrepreneur.com, Investopedia and the like. Probably one of the things people in my generation worry this time is how to make a living. After writing a heck about Finance for some time now, I have completely understood the essence of planning and mapping out one’s life. What you will do today will certainly affect your future, career and money-wise.

9. I bid goodbye to a couple of friends. As an individual coming from the nursing field, I’ve already anticipated the thought of friends leaving for greener pastures. However, I never expected it to be this sooner. A close high school pal is now pursuing her dreams in Australia. A dear boy bud/college classmate flew to Norway to practice what we studied for. Seeing them leave makes me sad. But then again, they made me rethink of my future.

This is how we roll, homies.

10. I welcomed new ones. I’m no extrovert, but I do love getting to know more people. Although I kept close contact with old pals, I was very open to making new friends and hoped to meet quality ones. You know… the ones that will be added to your BFF list.

11. I successfully breathed life into my drowned phone. There’s nothing more annoying than finding out for a split-second that your phone is doomed. I’m not really fond of bringing phones in the CR. When I realized I brought it with me, it was too late. From my hoodie pocket, it literally dived to the toilet. Okay, eww. I get it. I know the phone is damn cheap, but c’mon. I worked hard for it. Thankfully, my resourcefulness got me somewhere. :p If you reader happen to be placed in this sordid situation, remember these: DRY YOUR PHONE IMMEDIATELY, HAVE IT AIR-DRIED FOR A FEW HOURS, SUBMERGE IT TOTALLY IN A CONTAINER WITH UNCOOKED RICE FILLED TO THE BRIM AND LEAVE IT FOR 3-5 DAYS. I was lucky mine was still under warranty. The technician didn’t have an inkling about what really happened. After a reboot and software update, voila! It’s good as new.

12. I became closer to my younger sister. When I found out my mom would give birth to a girl, I was ecstatic. Finally, I’ll have someone to play girl toys with. Backtrack 17 years. We grew up fighting over petty stuff such as not making her bed in the morning or not asking permission to borrow my clothes. My family may look close-knit, but we really aren’t. We’re not the affectionate type. Perhaps when you mature, you realize your siblings may not be little cunning monsters that you initially thought they were. Between me and my sister? She may not share most of her secrets with me but we’re definitely getting there. And I will perfectly exact my revenge ‘til then. Mwahaha. Kidding.

It's all because of this gig. Haha

13. I developed a love for al pesto. Just like what Kanye said in Bound 2, “Hey, you remember where we first met? Okay, I don't remember where we first met.” Never really remembered when and where. All I knew was after the first taste, I knew right then and there I was going to look for it every now and then. That sounded so redundant. I’ve aggrandized my love for it through social media: tag shameless #instafood #alpesto. I’m a self-confessed pesto addict.

Sweeeet Jesus.

14. I met a lot of wonderful musicians. This is probably the next biggest highlight of my 2013. It’s so refreshing to see new faces and listen to them singing the songs I grew up with. I’m not really sure if I get the same opportunities this year, but it’s okay. I’m content with having met such awesome folks and jammed with them even for a short while.

The life of a fangirl~just in the audience, taking photos of 'em. :3

15. I travelled a lot. Okay, it wasn’t really the grandiose ones. I’ve always dreamed of visiting exquisite areas in the country and travelling overseas. Unfortunately, my budget didn’t allow me to do so. So, I ended up touring Cebu instead. I went to new places with my beau, colleagues, family and friends on separate occasions. Anyway, I recently checked my yearly horoscope for 2014 and it says a lot about travelling. Niiiiiice. Part 2, then?

16. I developed a love for outdoorsy stuff. My boyfriend and I decided to spend our first monthsary in Danasan Eco Adventure Park. The thought of going out of town with a newfound love was something that really excited me. It’s a fun way to start a budding relationship, by the way. You know… having something to remember as you guys go through the smooth pavements and rocky roads in a relationship. After trying out caving, trekking and ATV riding, I swore to myself I’ll expose myself to more adventures from then onwards.

Must-try, folks. Must. Try.

17. I was proud of my younger brother more than ever. Finally, my bro did it. He passed the licensure examination for Marine Engineers last year. I am so excited to see the heights he will be reaching soon.

18. I stayed at my Lola’s turf for the most part of the year. For the sake of practicality, I decided to live with my lola and relatives for almost 8 months. The benefits? Less transportation expenses, perfect attendance streaks and more time with my lola and her folks.

19. I have never been so happy working until I stayed at ST. I never thought I’d found an environment much better than the ESL/IELTS school I’ve worked previously. Tell me, where in the Philippines can you find an employer who offers you free lunch, free snacks, free movie passes and a whole bunch of incentives? You might ask me if there’s a catch. Well, the job isn’t really that easy-peasy if you belong in my department. Stress aside, I just love how nurturing the company is. It is only in rare occasions that most of us can work with diplomatic managers, friendly workmates and generous bosses. I secretly hope companies in the country would follow suit. In a way, I felt valued by the company—and it sure is one of the main reasons why I stayed there for more than 1 year.

Caught in the act. Hihi

20. I was more inspired to reach my dreams. The previous year had not only been a social one for me. It was very enlightening. Furthermore, the nature of my job allowed me to open my horizons to new things, ideologies, events and many more. With all the knowledge I’ve accumulated for some time now, I am more convinced to pursue the things I want in life.

21. I did a pretty good beauty loot at least 5 times last year. As part of my self-improvement move, I started to splurge my hard-earned cash on skin care, hair care and make-up. Many mistake it for vanity; I don’t. There’s really nothing wrong with taking care of yourself and experimenting with new looks for as long as you spend according to your means.

Not so much, okay.

22. I have enjoyed solitude more than ever. This is really nothing new to me. I was so used to shopping ALONE, eating in fancy restaurants ALONE, going out ALONE, etc. Even if I have a bunch of friends I can contact readily and a willing boyfriend to accompany me, I chose to spend more quality time with myself. I find it spiritual and uplifting. There’s so much inner peace once you withdraw yourself momentarily from the people you know and love.

23. I have become more interested at improving myself. You know the saying “Don’t lose yourself in the blur of the stars and hearts?” It’s really true. Except I made that up. I got it from a Jessie J song and added a twist into it. Nevertheless, I learned how fulfilling it is to discover parts of myself as I move through life. Because of this, I became more aware of my surroundings, relationships and all the other issues in the world.

24. I loved playing dress up. I’m no fashionista. I would become downright guilty by just the thought of purchasing a Php 2000 blouse from a famous high-street brand which I’m sure I’ll only wear for at least once a month. When it came to wardrope staples, I realized how important it was to keep neutrals and basics. Mix and match purposes, ‘ya know. I only get by a with a measly 5-figure salary a month, so it would be unrealistic of me to spend much on trendy outfits. HOWEVER, I make up for my cheapness when big events do come i.e. themed parties! Last, last year, I was Audrey Hepburn for a night. Last Christmas, hmmmm. I’m not sure. All I know is I’ve always dreamed of wearing a red dress and sporting the smokey-eye look. Yipee.

25. I enjoyed great food a lot. No question. With loved ones to hang out with, I got to try different cuisines and check out the finest restaurants in town. I just wish I started this blog a long time ago. I would have written a couple of reviews by now.

The Big Daddy Truck appeared out of nowhere!

26. I became sick a lot. Remember when I talked about the catch of my job? Having a desk job may not be a thing for me. I was plagued mostly with gastrointestinal and dental problems for the most part of the year. Sometimes, I would feel so sick in the gut and try to ignore it so I wouldn’t have to file an undertime or leave. For the first time in my life, I got a shot of sedative-anesthetics because of a certain procedure. I think that was the drug that killed Michael Jackson if I’m not mistaken. Yikes.

Having a pulse oximeter attached to your index finger is really something, right?

27. I fell in love with belly dancing and badminton. Oh yes. In the hopes of thwarting off desk job-related health conditions and losing a few pounds, I have turned to sexy dances and arm-smashing sports. Hehe

As if. xD

28. I endured earthquakes and storms. Never in my dreams and 22 years of living in this planet have I experienced subsequent wraths from Mother Nature herself. A devastating 7.2 magnitude earthquake waking me up on a holiday and a monster storm Yolanda wrecking houses were too much to bear in a span of 2 months. Thankfully, none of my loved ones were harmed. The world is getting scarier. Really. :(

29. I reminisced more. Just to see how far I’ve become as a person and to do something to improve myself. Most especially, it’s because I miss a few people in my life. Well, we can only reminisce even though we long to go back to that time for whatever reason we have in mind. If I had the chance, I won’t even do it because I’ve clearly learned from my past.

30. I realized that there are parts of myself that I need to change in order to improve my relationships. The last quarter of the year wasn’t so gentle for me. I was left to fight my own demons, to sort my relationships and priorities. Despite the hurt and pride, I was brave enough to confront and face the problem: ME. The more I build myself, the more I become defensive to the point of hurting the ones I love. I realized how important it is to understand that not all people think like me. That no matter how close they are to me, I still don’t know them well. And I really cannot change people and influence them to be the person that I want them to be. I need to understand that everything has its own place and time. All I can do is to be gentle and forgiving and understanding. Stubbornness and pride won’t get you anywhere.

BONUS: I think after 3 years of soul-searching, I finally know what I wanted to do with my life.

With these realizations, I am very excited to face 2014. Well, whatever it is in store for me this year--BRING IT ON! :)

Que sera sera.