Friday Appreciation

The flag outside the office captured during my usual walk in the hallway on the third floor of the building.

Happy Philippine Independence Day!

My sister was right, unlike citizens of other countries who grandly celebrates independence day, Filipinos take this day as another day to be lazy or to get on a getaway. I, on the other hand, took this day to rest. My body’s kind of in a brink of breaking down from all the stress and lack of sleep (a 90/50 blood pressure???). This is one day break from work I am really thankful of. But I cannot say that I didn’t enjoy this week’s work because besides from being tired, I had fun this week.

Our regional counterparts from all over the Philippines came to Manila for a two-day orientation. It was such a delight to see fresh faces at work after my almost three years. What’s more is that I get to host the event (kilig!).

Finally! Fresh faces!

Mindanao cluster where I belong + the chief

More than the fact that I met new people (and hopefully gained new friends), it was such a comfort to know that there are also young people like me in 16 regions of the Philippines who share my advocacy and passion in agriculture and fishery, or at least are willing to be influenced by it. Influence people: check!

After the program proper, the familiar relief flooded me. The usual photo op happened, and I was happy to get another photo with the team I grew very fond of at work.

Chief + Me + Pogi + Sis + Mother Hen

Last on the gratitude journal this week is seeing a good friend and making Original Sin as part of her birthday celebrations.

24 banana chocochip muffins for Yna's 24 years!

O how great my weekdays were! Happy, happy weekend, everybody!

– C

Simply Five

Can someone tell me that today is Saturday and not Friday, and that I can stay in my bed the whole day? No? Okay. Friday then.

There are just a lot that happened in my week, including my first lone travel for work, the bad green tea latte I bought in a coffee shop at the airport, the almost three-hour delayed return flight to Manila and my first ever comedy bar experience!

I was alone in Cagayan de Oro City most of my weekdays to attend two meetings. I was stucked in the conference room the whole time, and if I was out, it’s either I was in the comfort room, fast asleep in my hotel room or traveling back to Manila. Nevertheless, these small moments of almost freedom, I took time to look and appreciate little amazing things about my life.

Here they are!

Celebrating little accomplishments. Yey!

Pepper finally finished her swimming lessons. Can’t wait to spend adventures with this kiddo!

My view from the hotel’s restaurant during Tuesday dinner.

I love this wall piece from the conference hall where my meetings were held.

I could go on roadtrips in CDO anytime with this no-traffic situation thank you!

Have a wanderful weekend, you guys!

– C

Take Five

Yey, it’s Friday – last working day for most of us! Many of you might have been spending your Fridays looking forward for the fun activities you so carefully planned for the weekend. I used to be like you. But from now on, I will spend my Fridays not only looking forward for my weekend but also looking back to what transpired from my Monday through Friday. Specifically, I’d like to share to you the small details – that most people might not notice – which made me feel happy, excited, fulfilled and all other sort of positive vibes.

Here are the five things that made this week really special.

A funny drawing of Leny (an officemate) by Alvin (another officemate)

An officemate brought these boxes of buko (coconut) pie from Laguna for everyone in the office. Isn’t he the sweetest?

I felt like a grade schooler receiving her first star!

Back to Army Gym for some late night swimming

Guess what? I discovered a hole-in-the-wall Thai restaurant just 10 minutes away from my apartment. This Pad Thai of theirs is my favorite!

What made your week extraordinary?

Happy weekend, people!

– C