Noticing the Small Things

Today didn’t start out great. I woke up irritated because Chanel was meowing like a banshee, and I had slept later than I wanted to. When I went downstairs, my husband was already irritated too—his foot was hurting, and when he’s in pain, irritation is how he lets off steam. Naturally, that irritated me even more.

As I said, not the best start.

Thankfully, despite being annoyed with each other, we still managed to show up. He took me to the wet market, and I was able to snag some fresh produce. He even picked me up after, which I appreciated more than I probably said out loud.

While I was cleaning the produce at home, B managed to get on my nerves—but this one didn’t linger. We talked, cleared things out, and moved on. The husband had a chicken sandwich and then left for work, while B and I cooked tahong together. Pro-tip: 1 cup water and 1 cup Sprite is the perfect combination for the tahong soup. 

Later in the afternoon, I went to SM to pick up a few things we needed for the kitchen, along with some dinosaur toys that K’s grandma and uncle wanted to get for him. Of course, if K gets something, B gets something too, so B got some Lego toys of his own.

I also treated myself to new bras from Wacoal. I haven’t bought new ones in almost two years, so this felt like a well-deserved splurge. I only got two because ₱2,230 per bra is still a lot for me—but I trust the brand, and comfort is a priority.

When I got home, I cooked steamed lapu-lapu and realized I might have chosen one that was a bit too big. Thankfully, it still fit in the steamer, though it came out slightly firm. Mental note for next time: marinate the fish in sesame oil, black pepper, and salt for a few hours so the flavor really sinks in.

Dinner was a win. For the first time in a while, everything was wiped out—no leftovers at all. That made me genuinely happy, especially since we won’t be eating at home tomorrow.

I ended the night with Cinnabon and coffee. I chose to eat downstairs at the dining table instead of in my room, which is my usual habit. I just wanted a moment to myself. I felt a brief pang of guilt for not sharing with K, but I let it go. Sometimes, moms need to just be moms—and eat quietly, alone.

Today, I am grateful for noticing the small things. Fresh produce. Flowers in the living room. Food I get to cook and serve my family. Moving around with less knee pain. And being able to sit down and drink coffee in peace.

I think these are the things that make me rich in life. View my day here. 

My Vision Board for 2026

I haven’t created a vision board in a very long time. Somewhere along the way, I stopped envisioning things altogether. Maybe it happened during the pandemic, or maybe it was because life shifted into survival mode and never quite eased up after that.

Don’t get me wrong—I am happily married. But when it comes to finances, it has been a cycle of on and off, steady then uncertain. At times, I’ve felt like a fish out of water, barely catching my breath before being pulled back under again.

Then there was losing my Mom. And not long after, my Dad followed.

Grief has a way of narrowing your world. Dreams feel indulgent when you’re just trying to make it through the day.

This year, though, I decided I want to dream again. I want something to aim for—not out of pressure, but out of hope.

My vision for this season of life is simple, but deeply intentional. I want slow mornings that don’t begin in a rush. I want financial stability—not excess, just steadiness and peace of mind. I want to take my family on a trip abroad, to experience new places together and create memories we’ll carry for years.

I want to grow my journaling workshops—not just as a side project, but as meaningful work that allows me to help others while building a life that feels aligned. I want healthier bodies, more movement, better sleep, and gentler days. I want our own home, a space that feels safe and rooted. I want a brand new seven-seater car, not for status, but for comfort, practicality, and family life.

I want to read more. To write things down. To remember. To document moments that might otherwise slip quietly by.

At the heart of it all, I want a career in journaling workshops that supports this vision—a life built on reflection, creativity, and slow living. A life that feels intentional rather than reactive.

Vision boards, I’ve learned, are both aspirational and inspirational. They remind us of what we want, but they are not contracts we have to fulfill perfectly. If we don’t tick off everything by the end of the year, that’s okay. What matters is that we allowed ourselves to dream again, to hope again, and to believe that a gentler, fuller life is possible.

Sometimes, choosing to envision is already a win.

Savoring Slow Days

I used to believe that productivity was the only proof that I had a good day. If I wasn’t ticking something off a list, then the day felt wasted. The idea of simply sipping coffee, enjoying music, and taking my time felt so unfamiliar that whenever it happened, guilt would quietly creep in.

The truth is, even up until early this year, and sometimes still now, I catch myself tensing up when I hear someone about to enter my room. Instinctively, I make myself look busy. As if rest, stillness, or doing nothing needs to be justified.

Even in my own home.

Unlearning that mindset took time. I watched videos, read essays, and slowly allowed myself to sit with the idea of slow days instead of resisting them. I learned that being able to drink a cup of coffee in peace, without rushing or explaining myself, is one of life’s quiet luxuries.

I learned that a good night’s sleep sets the tone for everything that follows. Even gentle movement, such as walking or cleaning the house and washing dishes, that allows me to break a sweat can lift my mood more than you expect. Opening a cupboard and seeing it full is a blessing that many of us forget to acknowledge.

And somewhere along the way, I learned that rest is not laziness. It is care.

If you are learning how to savor slow days too, here are a few things that helped me:

First, stop timing everything. Not every moment needs to be efficient. Let some tasks take longer simply because you can.

Second, create one small daily ritual. Morning coffee, afternoon stretching, or quiet journaling at night. Consistency makes slowness feel safe.

Third, limit background noise. Silence, soft music, or natural sounds can help your body relax without you realizing it.

Fourth, move your body without an agenda. Walk, stretch, dance, or clean at your own pace. Movement does not have to be a workout to be beneficial.

Fifth, remind yourself that rest does not need to be earned. You are allowed to slow down simply because you are human.

Slow days do not mean empty days. Sometimes, they are the fullest ones of all. View my day here. 

Gratitude on the First Day of 2026

The simple fact that we are alive and able to welcome 2026 is already something to be deeply grateful for. Not everyone is given that privilege, and for that alone, I find myself saying thank you—to God, to the universe—for this gift that continues to be given.

The year began exactly the way I hoped it would. A slow morning. A full night’s rest after coming home late from celebrating with my siblings. No rush, no pressure. Just the husband and I moving in the kitchen, listening to music, working side by side to prepare a late lunch for our kids. And honestly, it felt just right.

Afterwards, B and I cleaned up while the husband took care of K. It felt like a much-needed reset for our home—the kind that goes beyond just tidying up. We cleaned, then took the time to clean ourselves too, and I finally sat down to sort through my journals. That alone felt grounding.

My desk, however, still leaves much to be desired. The added weight of knowing we’ll need to find a new place soon feeds the procrastination, but I also know I can’t let that stop me. I need my desk to work for me—to support productivity, yes, but also peace. Right now, it’s chaotic, and if I’m being honest, it deeply bothers me.

I also did a much-needed weigh-in and saw that I gained back 2 of the kilos I had lost. Still, it feels like a win. Losing 7 kilos without even trying is something I don’t take lightly. It simply means I need to be mindful again—of what I eat, how much I move, and making space for daily exercise.

I’m still far from where I want to be, health-wise, but I’m taking the necessary steps. Slowly, intentionally, and with more awareness this time.

We finally got Fifi (short for Maleficent) after so many missed schedules, and she is the most gorgeous thing. She is so adorable and can definitely hold her own against my 5 other cats. 

Should I make an Instagram account for her? 

I know that today is, in many ways, just another day. And yet, there is something comforting about the idea of being given a whole new year. I hope that as the days unfold, I remember to be grateful—simply for being alive, and for having my family alive, healthy, and beside me.

I hope I remember that it is okay to say no. It is okay to walk away from people who once mattered but no longer do. And that what God wills is, and will always be, what is best for me.

2025 was our first full year without Mommy. It wasn’t easy, but we made it through—with strength, with grace, and with love. As we step into 2026, I hope we allow ourselves to do what we need to do, to pursue our passions, and to continue building the life we know we deserve.

Happy New Year. View my day here. 

 

Estancia de Lorenzo Rings in 2026 with Dazzling BrightFest Celebration

The  moment  everyone  has  been  waiting  for  is  finally  here. 

Tonight, Estancia  de  Lorenzo  opens  its  gates  for  its  much-anticipated  BrightFest  New  Year’s  Eve  Countdown  Celebration ,  welcoming  guests  to  an  unforgettable  evening  filled  with  music,  lights, a gourmet dinner buffet, and shared moments as the clock ticks toward 2026.

The  celebration  takes  place  at  the  Amphitheater .  Guests  begin  arriving  at  8:00  PM  for  registration,  where  each  attendee  will  receive  their  glow  sticks—setting  the  tone  for  a  night  that  will say goodbye to 2025 and welcome 2026 with a bright fest celebration.

Throughout  the  evening,  live  performances  by  Jan's Countdown Club  and  Alab  LED  Dancers  will  keep  the venue lively. A specially prepared New Year’s Eve dinner buffets awaits for guests to enjoy.

As  midnight  draws  near,  the  guests  will  proceed  to  the  Alfresco  area  of  Lorenzo’s  Modern  Filipino  Cuisine  for  the  Grand  Fireworks  Display.  Together,  everyone  will  welcome  2026  in  a  joyful and vibrant celebration.

Tonight’s  New  Year’s  Eve  Countdown  at  Estancia  de  Lorenzo  marks  a  meaningful  close  to  2025.  Grateful  for  the  past  year  and  resilient  through  its  challenges,  Estancia  de  Lorenzo  looks  forward to an exciting 2026. Happy New Year from Estancia de Lorenzo!

For  more  updates  about  Estancia  de  Lorenzo’s  offers  for  2026,  please  visit  Estancia  de Lorenzo’s  official  social  media  pages.  Be  sure  to  follow  Estancia  de  Lorenzo’s  officially  verified  Facebook page.

For  your  security,  do  not  transact  with  any  Facebook  pages  that  are  not  verified  and  official.  Please conduct all transactions through their official website only.

 Facebook:  https://www.facebook.com/estanciadelorenzorizal

 Instagram:  @estanciadelorenzo.official

 TikTok:  Estancia de Lorenzo Rizal

 Website:  estanciadelorenzo.ph 

A new address for stylish stays and celebrations in Quezon City: The Tribute Hotel

Right in the heart of Tomas Morato in Quezon City, touted as the “Entertainment Capital of the Philippines,” lies The Tribute Hotel Quezon City, a chic and comfy hotel quietly making its mark as one of the city’s newest lifestyle destinations for staycations or dazzling celebrations.

An establishment that blends comfort, thoughtful design, and a sense of ease that feels both modern, welcoming, and rejuvenating, The Tribute Hotel had its soft opening in November 2024. Since then, the hotel has been drawing attention for offering a refined yet relaxed stay experience in one of Quezon City’s most vibrant neighborhoods.

With a design that eyes both business and leisure travelers, The Tribute Hotel offers well-appointed rooms that balance function and comfort. Currently available for booking are the Deluxe Room and Superior Twin Room, both equipped with lifestyle essentials such as flat-screen TVs, unlimited Wi-Fi, safety deposit boxes, mini refrigerators, kettles, and complete bathroom amenities. 

Deluxe Rooms, on the other hand, come with a bathtub and the option of twin or queen beds at the same rate, while Superior Twin Rooms feature a sleek shower setup. Guests also enjoy access to the hotel’s pool, gym facilities, and breakfast for two already included in published rates. A larger Junior Suite is set to open next year, expanding the hotel’s offerings even further.

Beyond its rooms, The Tribute Hotel positions itself as a versatile venue for gatherings of all kinds. Its three function rooms—Ibiza, Valencia, and Mallorca—are designed to host everything from intimate meetings to milestone celebrations. Ibiza, the largest at 165 square meters, can accommodate up to 120 guests, while Valencia and Mallorca offer more intimate settings for smaller groups. Banquet menus are curated by the hotel’s in-house kitchen, with flexible options tailored to different budgets and occasions.

Adding to the hotel’s lifestyle appeal is Don Tomas, its signature restaurant, which serves Spanish fusion cuisine in a stylish yet approachable setting. Here, classic Spanish flavors are reimagined with modern touches, making it a go-to spot for both hotel guests and local diners. This holiday season, The Tribute Hotel also rolls out special Christmas buffet dinners on December 24 and 31, priced at Php 2,000 nett per person, from 6 p.m. to 10 p.m.

As a new player in Quezon City’s hospitality scene, The Tribute Hotel QC is carving out its niche by offering more than just a place to stay. With its central location, thoughtful amenities, flexible event spaces, and growing dining experiences, it presents itself as a destination where stays, celebrations, and everyday moments feel effortlessly well put together.

The Tribute Hotel Quezon City is located at 99 Scout Gandia, Brgy. Sacred Heart, Tomas Morato, Quezon City. For bookings and reservations, visit the hotel’s Facebook and Instagram pages, email reservations@thetributehotel.ph, or call 0977 203 3805.

A festive peek at the hotel’s future as a social hotspot

Over the weekend, the hotel offered a glimpse of its potential as a social hub when it hosted the annual Christmas gathering of the Filipino Bloggers Network (FBN), a prestigious group of some of the country’s most recognized members of the blogging community.

The celebration unfolded as a relaxed, convivial evening—filled with shared stories, good food, and laughter—reflecting the kind of warm, community-driven experiences the hotel aims to create. Rather than a formal affair, the night felt like a reunion, made more memorable by the hotel’s attentive service and comfortable, inviting spaces.

The FBN also extends its heartfelt thanks to all the generous sponsors for their invaluable support in making the FBN Christmas gathering a success. Their partnership, contributions, and unwavering commitment helped bring the celebration to life and created a memorable experience for everyone involved. The group truly appreciates the trust and collaboration, and will be looking forward to more meaningful partnerships in the future. 

SM MOA Arena Showcases Girl-Power Confidence with Tyla and Doja Cat

As the world continues to redefine femininity, women who have paved the way and inspired a new generation of women—Tyla and Doja Cat—took over the SM Mall of Asia (MOA) Arena with unforgettable performances, proving once again that girls truly run the world.

SM Mall of Asia Arena hosts the greatest pop stars of the generation.

Queen of Popiano Tyla debuts at MOA Arena

Thriving in her early 20s, South African singer-songwriter Tyla made the SM Mall of Asia (MOA) Arena shake last December 3, inspiring a renewed sense of confidence among the audience. Many concertgoers embraced a deeper appreciation for body positivity and the freedom to dress in ways that reflect their own energy and self-assurance, drawing inspiration from Tyla herself.

Tyla serves top-tier vocals and unapologetic body confidence at the SM MOA Arena. 

From “Water” and “Chanel” to “Art” and “Truth or Dare,” the young diva made her Philippine debut with a performance like no other, showcasing dance culture not just as an art form, but as a powerful means of expression and self-confidence.

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Tyla heats up the SM Mall of Asia Arena with her opening number.

Pop-Rap Royalty Doja Cat Commands Attention

Amala Ratna Zandile Dlamini, known professionally as Doja Cat, championed female rappers worldwide, delivering bars from iconic, trending songs that celebrate femininity on December 9.

Exceeding confidence in every performance, Doja Cat brought a round of unending applause to the SM Mall of Asia Arena. Photo Source / Doja Cat on Instagram.

Following her fiery performances of “Kiss Me More,” “Paint the Town Red,” “Agora Hills,” and “Woman,” the Queen of Pop-Rap solidified her throne as one of the generation’s brightest rappers. The SM MOA Arena buzzed with energy, fans roaring in unison as the stage came alive in a dazzling spectacle of lights and sound.

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Doja Cat takes the venue by storm in her red polka dot body suit.

Doja Cat lights up the SM MOA Arena with a show-stopping debut at the world-class venue.

 

IV of Spades and Sexbomb Girls light up SM MOA Arena with back-to-back sold-out concerts

Before 2026 ended, the SM Mall of Asia (MOA) Arena made way for an unexpected plot twist that shook the local music scene. Capping the year with sold-out shows on their awaited returns, newly reunited golden girl group Sexbomb Girls and IV of Spades brought a nostalgic and explosive stage that truly brought the vibrant spirit of Original Pilipino Music (OPM) to life.

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Sexbomb made their long-awaited comeback, taking the stage at the SM Mall of Asia (MOA) Arena for the very first time.

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Sexbomb’s Nostalgic Comeback Draws a Sold-Out Crowd

Igniting a sold-out crowd at the SM MOA Arena, the iconic Sexbomb Girls returned, bringing together a generation of “pinalaki ng Sexbomb” as they danced and sang along. Their “Get, Get, Aw!” concert was a nostalgic celebration of the girl group that inspired confidence, fun, and a love for music across the years.

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Sexbomb electrifies the stage of SM Mall of Asia Arena with a dance performance.

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The 17-member group electrified the arena, performing their timeless hits to a crowd that echoed the spirit of 2000s dance culture. By honoring the roots of barangay dance battles and championing self-confidence, their concert became a beacon of inspiration, reminding every Filipino that music bridges generations and eras.

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Sexbomb makes a nostalgic reunion with longtime fans at the SM Mall of Asia Arena.

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The start of an evolution

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The SM MOA Arena ended the year on a high note, hosting the two-day spectacle “IV of Spades Live at the MOA Arena.” After seven years apart, the band’s much-anticipated reunion drew a sold-out crowd on opening night, filling the venue with excitement from December 12 to 13.

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IV of Spades brings an intimate reunion after 7 years to the SM Mall of Asia Arena. Photo source / IV of Spades on Facebook.

The concert became a daring display of creativity, drawing fans into a realm where imagination reigned. IV of Spades paid tribute to loyal supporters with beloved classics and surprised the crowd with new tracks, including “Ilaw sa Daan,” “Mundo,” “Sentimental,” “Konsensya,” and “Aura.”

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IV of Spades rocks the SM Mall of Asia Arena with “Nanaman”.

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The encounter was not only artistic, but also intimate, sharing special moments together, such as holding a short Tekken Match and a simple exchange of words from each member who had found their way together again as a team.

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Writing Legacies for years to come

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These reunions of local cultural icons marked a milestone for OPM, celebrating its vibrant evolution and paving the way for the next generation of music for years to come.

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With 13 years as a premier large-scale venue, SM Mall of Asia Arena continues to be the home of the biggest names and rising stars—a stage where legacies are written, and new ones begin. As a new year approaches, the Arena remains committed to creating unforgettable experiences through every event and concert.

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IV of Spades brings a sold-out concert to SM Mall of Asia Arena. 

PSA Certificates for OFWs: Now Easier to Get, Wherever You Are

If you are an OFW, you know the drill: every big move, every renewal, every application seems to come with one recurring requirement: your PSA birth certificate, marriage certificate, or CENOMAR. And when you are thousands of miles away from home, getting those documents can be stressful. You end up messaging family back home, hoping someone is free to run the errand for you. Sometimes it works… sometimes it becomes a whole family drama.

But that’s finally changing.

The PSA, through its authorized partner PSAHelpline.ph, now makes it possible for OFWs anywhere in the world to request their official PSA documents online and have them prepared for international delivery. No need for pasuyo. No need to wait for someone to handle it for you. You can do everything on your own, on your phone or laptop, wherever in the world you are working.

What makes this especially helpful for OFWs?

✔ A Service Designed With OFWs in Mind

PSAHelpline.ph understands the reality of working abroad: shifting schedules, time zones, and the constant pressure to juggle work and family needs. Their online platform fits right into that lifestyle—simple, secure, and can be done anytime.

✔ Secure Identity Verification

You will go through a quick, safe verification process (with a liveness check and uploading of your valid ID), so only you can request and authorize the release of your documents. This is a big plus for OFWs who worry about identity safety and scams.

✔ View Your Digital PSA Certificate While Waiting

Upon completing and successfully passing the identity verification process, you will be given access to view and download the digital copy of your requested PSA certificate. This lets you check the details in advance and even use the information for online transactions that accept digital files. Perfect for urgent updates, renewals, or paperwork you need right away.

✔ You Choose Your Courier

Different countries, different delivery realities. With this service, you decide which international courier works best for you, whether it's DHL, FedEx, or a provider you trust in your area. You must book and pay for the delivery directly with your chosen courier, giving you full control of the cost and schedule.

Once the PSA is done processing, PSAHelpline.ph ensures your document is sealed properly and handed over safely to your chosen courier. You then track the shipment using the courier’s tracking number just like any important package.

For millions of Filipinos abroad, this service is a huge relief. It saves time, avoids unnecessary stress, and lets you handle your own requirements without depending on anyone back home. Most of all, it gives you peace of mind because the process is secure, official, and designed to fit the life of every hardworking Filipino overseas.

Wherever you are in the world, you now have a direct and reliable way to get your PSA documents. 

For OFWs, this is access made simple—finally. 

Brickman® Wonders of the World brings Iconic Landmarks made from LEGO® Bricks to The Space at Solaire

This December, Manila welcomes Brickman® Wonders of the World, offering a unique and imaginative holiday experience at The Space at Solaire Resort Entertainment City. The exhibition transforms the venue into a walk-through LEGO® adventure, inviting guests to explore stunning creations from across the globe, all crafted from millions of LEGO® bricks. The exhibit features over 45 meticulously designed models, some standing as tall as 3.6 meters, allowing visitors to experience global landmarks in a new and imaginative way. Guests can also engage in interactive areas where they can construct their own LEGO® creations, race vehicles down ramps, or add their own touches to collaborative displays, making it a hands-on experience for visitors of all ages. 

The exhibit is led by Ryan McNaught, also known as “The Brickman,” the only LEGO® Certified Professional in the Southern Hemisphere and one of just 24 in the world. As the official judge of LEGO® Masters Australia, McNaught and his talented team of builders have dedicated thousands of hours to designing and constructing each display—some made with more than 164,000 LEGO® pieces. Their work brings global landmarks to life in a way that sparks curiosity and wonder in every visitor. 

“The Space at Solaire continues to demonstrate its versatility as a venue for immersive experiences,” said Carlos Candal, CEO of GMG Productions. “From hosting the FRIENDS™ Experience to now welcoming the LEGO® Brickman Wonders of the World exhibition, the venue’s adaptable design allows us to bring large-scale, interactive attractions to life, providing memorable experiences for audiences of all ages.” 

Following the success of The FRIENDS™ Experience: The One in Manila, Brickman Wonders of the World continues GMG Productions’ commitment to bringing immersive global entertainment to audiences in Asia. “These exhibitions are only the beginning,” Candal adds. “We look forward to introducing more experiences that inspire creativity, nostalgia, and imagination.” 

Brickman+ Wonders of the World runs from December 13, 2025 to February 8, 2026 at The Space at Solaire. Tickets are available exclusively through TicketWorld.