13 Going on 30

I'm turning 30!!!

I booked a hotel just for myself for five nights, to have some quiet time to think about life and enjoy a little peace of mind away from home.  Turning 30? I’m feeling excited, thrilled, and genuinely good! I used to think turning 30 would be something scary, but now I’m actually looking forward to it. I know that Jesus has blessed me, stayed with me, and continues to be by my side. With that, I have nothing to worry off. I’ve said this before, but if you have Jesus in your life, things may be difficult, yet the joy and peace in your heart will never leave you—and I’ll always stand by that. :)

I booked the biggest room with bathtub, I deserve this, lol. My faves during my stay are the following:

-Whenever I got back from going out, someone will clean for me (HAHAHA)

-I get to call then ask to pick-up for my car then when I went down, it's ready for me to drive.

-When I'm too lazy, I get to order food, and it will be delivered in front of my door!

-It's quiet and I only have to think about myself!

Photos of what I ate! he serving is too big for me, so sometimes I split it into two meals (tipid hacks hahaha)

Staying here feels like a yay day so I took photos of myself whenever I go out

Fave Photos!

Before midnight on my 30th birthday, I bought a small cake and ordered adobo. I finished it all in one sitting, it was so good! I'm also watching my birthday movie! (need to prepare HAHAHA)

I was about to sing for myself, but my fambam called me, and we ended up singing together. Hahaha. This cake is so good!!! This Mary Grace Chocolate Cake is now my favorite chocolate cake. I love sweets so much but usually hold back, well we know too much sugar can be bad. But today, I deserve a treat!

On the morning of my birthday, I took a dip in the pool!  "A dip in the pool, a trip to the spa, Endless days in my chaise,  The whole world according to moi" lol

And then I was in tears, because I wasn’t expecting this at all. My beshie sent me a cake and sunflowers, I cried (not oa)!!! Reading her letter brought back so many memories. I was frozen in shock for a few minutes. It's so precious, I feel so special. She said it’s my 30th, and she wanted me to really feel it! She’s miles away from me, but she made me feel truly loved. Distance doesn’t separate us—it only strengthens our friendship. My beshieeeee!!!

After being emotional, it was time to be Jenna. HAHAHA. I actually planned this ahead, lol. I’m Maha! I love 13 Going on 30. I knew I’d regret it if I didn’t dress up as her for my 30th, so I stepped out of my comfort zone and did it!

My hotel was just a few minutes from a studio called Lightcode, so I went there, flaunted my dress, and posted away! Here are some of my fave photos. I made it happen, yay! Siri, play Head Over Heels!

At night, I had dinner with the fambam. My favorite part was feeling all their love, I felt so loved!!! We were definitely the noisiest table, laughing nonstop, sharing endless chika, and eating our hearts out. Hahaha, my crazies!

Here are the other gifts I received! I think there are still more coming. I captured them all so I’ll always remember.

Let's get emotional!

Fave songs that reflect my 30 years of being a vampire, oops, I mean human!

Bilimillion by Yuri

Goodness, Love, and Mercy by Chris Tomlin

Just Fine by Mary J. Blige

Finally, here’s a list of my favorite lessons, discoveries, and milestones from my 30-year journey.

1. Getting my Master’s Degree – This has to be one of the hardest things ever (check my blog for more details, lol). But honestly, pursuing my Master’s was one of the toughest challenges I’ve ever taken on, and I made it!
2. Finding a job, boss, and role I actually like – It’s been such a long journey. I know nothing is permanent, but I’ve reached a point in my life where it feels like I’ve found a company that values my sanity, a boss I really admire, and a role that’s truly good for me.
3. Learning to drive – Yaaasss! Now I can go wherever, whenever I want. Thanks, Daddy!
4. Reading and understanding the Bible – Crazy to think I'll love Bible! I love Jesus, I love reflecting, and I love seeking wisdom and knowledge. The Bible feels like a collection of books full of treasures if you’re willing to dig deeper. I’ve learned so much and have been able to stand firm in my beliefs and values because of it.
5. Discovering I love Sundays – One day a week dedicated to learning more about Jesus and meeting people who love Him too, that’s why I love Sundays. I can’t imagine life without church. It’s not about religion but relationship with Him. And if you really want that relationship, being in church matters. I’ll gladly keep doing this for the rest of my life.
6. Watching in the cinemas by myself – Yup, because movies are life! I can totally see myself enjoying this even when I’m old and gray.
7. Going anywhere by myself – As an independent woman, I’ve built the confidence to travel solo, attend events, and just go places on my own. Doing things alone isn’t a limitation, it’s actually a powerful way to reflect, learn, have fun, and open yourself to endless possibilities.
8. Visiting Japan – I finally got to visit my favorite country, and I’m going back again before the end of this month. I love Japan! JAFUN!!!
9. Teaching students – I was able to teach, and I truly believe I made something meaningful out of it. The learnings (and the sufferings too, lol) are priceless. Teaching is fun, and I’ll always treasure the experience.
10. I’m maarte, HAHAHA –I am picky! I notice every detail, I have standards, I know my values, and honestly, I like that about myself.
11. Knowing who I am – I know who I am, my strengths and weaknesses, what I like, and why I am the way I am. And I love myself! When you know yourself deeply, you start to value the things that matter and go after the life you truly want.

I still desire so much more in life, but with where I am right now, I’m content. It doesn’t hurt to dream bigger, but all I can say is I’m happy—I turned 30, and I feel good about it. I have a feeling so much more will unfold this year, and I’m excited for what’s ahead. Thank You, Lord, You’re the best!

Cheers to Thirty, Thriving, and Loving It. Flirty when I want to be, but I know which battles to pick. :)