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. :)

Halu! As someone who absolutely worships Studio Ghibli (OA, I know), I just have to do this to always remember the experience. I’ve been waiting for this for so long, and I finally got to watch the films this month in the cinema—I repeat, in CINEMA! Wohoooo! I want to see all the Studio Ghibli films in the Cinema, but who am I to complain? We got six of them!!!

Tickets Photos (as a sentimental gurly)

My Neighbor Totoro (1988)

My love!!! I love totoro, I just love it. Whenever I watch this anime, it takes me back to my childhood, when I was carefree, silly, and always playing, letting my imagination run on and on, and the feeling of I can do anything I want and it would always be fun.

A ★★★★★ review of My Neighbor Totoro (1988)

I could watch this on repeat and never stop smiling. Experiencing it on the big screen for the first time filled my heart completely. Truly unforgettable! Yay!

Letterboxd

The Wind Rises (2013)

Having a passion is everything, but having someone by your side who supports that passion is one of the most beautiful things.

A ★★★★★ review of The Wind Rises (2013)

Taking it all in, The Wind Rises is just so beautiful. Cinema baby!!!

Letterboxd

Ponyo (2008)

Ponyo loves Sosuke!!!

A ★★★★½ review of Ponyo (2008)

“Ponyo loves Sosuke” To live in Hayao Miyazaki films is to truly grasp one’s imagination and make something of it.

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Spirited Away (2001)

So many thoughts come to me while watching this film, the feeling of wanting, the feeling of greed, the feeling of hesitation, the feeling of being in love, the feeling of making things happen and giving everything. Hayao Miyazaki is the best!!!

A ★★★★★ review of Spirited Away (2001)

No-Face has become my favorite character. A spirit desperately searching for connection, yet longing for acceptance and a place to belong. In many ways, we are all No-Face.

Letterboxd

Princess Mononoke (1997)

Reminded me of "They do not know where they are going, because the darkness has blinded them." Princess Mononoke will always be a film that shows no matter how badly humans can be, there is always a chance for healing and reconciliation if "we see with eyes unclouded by hate".

A ★★★★★ review of Princess Mononoke (1997)

“to see with eyes unclouded by hate”

Letterboxd

Nausicaä of the Valley of the Wind (1984)

And the message is loud and clear: violence is never the answer!

A ★★★★½ review of Nausicaä of the Valley of the Wind (1984)

Giant insects in the 1980s? Yes! And Miyazaki shows us again, violence is never the answer. Bring more Studio Ghibli films to cinemas, Gimme!

Letterboxd

My heart is full! 😭❤️ Bring more Studio Ghibli films to cinemas!

Wazzzuup! I finally have a moment to write—wohooo! Earlier this month, the fambam and I traveled to Singapore, and I want to share some memories here. Our first trip abroad together was in Hong Kong, and it’s been years since we last went out of the country. I felt it was the perfect time for us to travel again. It’s not my first time in Singapore, but I thought it would be the best destination for my family… despite what my wallet says, lol.

Getting to the airport, arriving at the airport. What a happy family, lol.

That's right, we made it through immigration! The reason I dressed this way is that I'm taking my family along - I had to look like a rich woman capable of handling four people, haha.We grab dinner first, then head to the gate.

Aren't we so cute, waiting to board!

Let's board the plane!

Rapha proudly bought pretzels with her own money— the cheapest thing on the menu.

It’s already Mama’s birthday on the plane, so I asked her to take a picture—happy birthday, Mama! 🥳 This trip was also one of the main reasons I wanted to make this happen. Currently watching Friends mid-flight, hihi. And just look at how sweet my parents are. 🥰

After 4 hours—touchdown SG! First win: free water!!! I told the whole fam to bring their own tumblers so we could save some money, haha. Booked a taxi through Gojek and this beautiful car showed up—just look at how happy they were!

Finally, we arrived at our hotel. It turned out to be bigger than I expected, and since it was pricey, I’m glad it was actually worth it.

The first day is Universal Studios Singapore, so here are some of my favorite photos from USS.

I love Shrek so I dragged the whole family to watch the 4D show. When I went to Universal Studios Japan, I missed out because my friends weren’t into it, so this time I made sure to watch with the fam. I even bought a Shrek cap… and guess what? I saw Shrek too, yayyyy!

Then off we went to The Mummy! My dad’s a big fan of the Mummy movies, so he was really looking forward to this ride. We saw on TikTok that it’s actually kind of an extreme ride, but we decided not to tell Mom—she was already nervous enough, HAHAHA.

I bought this souvenir (almost ₱3,000!) to always remember the experience, HAHAHA. Mom wasn’t too happy with this ride, and we ended up just laughing and blaming each other after. It was definitely intense, but worth the fun and the long lines. Not exactly elder-friendly though, lol. As you can see, I’m the only one truly having fun here. HAHAHA.

It's lunchtime! It's 700php+ per person, I look happy but I'm not really happy hahahaha. However, I like it because I like curry.

I bought some dessert too after, but they were too expensive, So I bought one for five HAHAHA. Yes, ONE for FIVE, because it looked that yummy!

Went to minions ride too! Watching Dad crack up at the Minion Mayhem story was priceless, we’ve officially got a new Minion fan in the fam.

I saw Mason and Toothless too! I told Mason I wanted Toothless for myself, so he tried teaching me how to tame a dragon. This guy talks non-stop and asks a million questions before I can even snap a photo with him and Toothless. He also initiated this pose, lol.

Also hopped on the Puss in Boots ride with my sisters!

Watched a Trolls performance. I loved it! Dancing, music, happy people… my kind of vibe.

We lined up for a picture with Gabby too!

We had so much fun with all the rides and the shows until the very end of the day. Then we grabbed some dinner, just look at how tired we were!

The next morning, since Our hotel was just in front of a mall, so of course we went there to hunt for some good finds, and guess what, we spotted these beautiful Jujutsu Crocs, 50% off baby!!! 😍 Hanee and I were literally jumping HAHAHA.

Had breakfast too, and it was the best toast ever, we loved it so much we ordered again!

We went to Sri Layan Sithi Vinayagar Temple, Little India, Chinatown, and Sultan Mosque at Arab Street. Here are my favorite photos.

You can clearly see who wasn’t a fan of trying the Indian food, HAHAHA.

Some of my other fave photos

We were supposed to visit the Merlion at night, but we didn’t know it was Singapore’s birthday! The area was packed with people and fireworks, so we just ended up heading home instead.

We just grabbed some pasalubong and ate at McDo since it was still open. We were so tired from all the walking, but this McDo meal hit the spot. I just love McDo SG!!! Always and forever.

Day 3, Let's goooo!

Finally went to the Merlion the next day!

We saw this cutie cat, it totally made my day!

Had Shake Shack for lunch

We then visited the Singapore Oceanarium! 🐠 I had a blast diving with so many fascinating sea creatures, including colorful fishes, and even huge sharks. The giant tanks were like stepping into another world. I definitely counted this as one of the highlights of this trip.

My favorite photos of me!!! I could cry!!! 😭

Before going home, I spotted Kazehaya and Sawako. Sawako is always in character, I love it! We also treated ourselves to some ice cream, it's only 10 SGD.

We headed to the mall again for some last-minute shopping, and grabbed Jollibee takeout for our final meal. I’m not a fan of Jollibee in SG, lol.

Going home, bye SG! ✈️  

At the airport, we found the comfiest sofa ever. Honestly wanted to take it home with me!

We’re really heading home! Still watching Friends on the plane :)

Hello, Manila! No, we’re not exactly thrilled to be back home, but my cats are definitely happy, hahaha. Overall, it was a fun (and expensive!) family trip. The sisters had a different flight, so we had to head back first. All I can say is thank You, Lord! This trip was only possible because of the blessings we received this year. That’s it for this blog! Just jotting it down to keep track of everything. 😊

Halu! I found myself dozing off on the sofa while watching Solo Leveling (paused). Maybe it's from all the exhaustion of today. But as I woke-up, I started thinking about my highlights from March. I realized that these moments deserve to be remembered, so I decided to list them down.

🏃‍♀️ Running & Self Love
I set a new PR today, and I’m so proud of myself! While I haven't fully committed to dieting yet, I’ve been consistent with exercise since February—running and lifting weights. It's been hard work, but discipline is key, and I’m proving to myself that I can stay committed. My parents are super supportive of this new hobby. My mom, though, always has a lot to say about me working out late at night. She keeps telling me how brave I am for going out so late by myself lol, sometimes, I surprise myself too.

📊 Performance Review – Hard Work Pays Off
I had my performance review this month, and it made me realize that all my hard work is making an impact. Knowing that I provide value in my role is an achievement in itself. This job wasn’t easy to get, so I try to give quality deliverables. I know I still have a lot to learn!

💁‍♀️ I’m Maha!
One thing I learned about myself this month? I have great self-discipline! I express myself freely with people I value and feel comfortable with, but I also know how to set boundaries with people I don't know fully well. I appreciate when people admire me, it makes me feel beautiful and confident, but I also trust my intuition when it comes to people. If I don’t see potential, I won’t waste my time. I’m not desperate! I’m Maha! 😊

🎬 Missing the Cinema
I'm that stage again where watching movies in the cinema is more fun with someone. Right now, I lack the energy to go alone, not because I feel lonely (I don’t!), but because the experience is just more enjoyable when shared. I do miss the cinema!!!

🍗 Food = Life
I love good food. Good food is LIFE. And chicken wings? CHICKEN WINGS ARE LIFER. HAHAHA.

🌻 Want Sunflowers!
It’s been a few weeks now, and I’ve been wanting to buy sunflowers, but every time I try to find them, they’re nowhere to be found! 😭 I just want sunflowers!!!

❤️ Crazy Fambam
Our family is absolutely crazy. HAHAHAHA, but I love it! If you think I’m crazy, just wait until you meet my fambam! 😂

I would say that God's timing was absolutely perfect this month, everything fell into place just as it should. You da best, Lord!  🙌 April is almost here! I pray that it brings love, peace, and happiness. 🌸🌸🌸

I’m back for now! (A little pun, since my featured photo is of my back, HAHAHAHA).  I realized I need to post something relevant, or there’s no point in keeping this blog going. Hahaha! Thanks to all my viewers, even though I don’t know who you are, but you’re keeping this blog alive! Let me share a few things about myself since, you know, this blog is all about me! Mwahahaha!

There’s so much peace in my heart right now - it’s crazy how possible it is. When you have a personal relationship with God, peace follows, and no one can take that from you. It’s easy for that peace to be shaken, but when you know who you are, you’re determined to hold on to it.

Ice cream - I love ice cream! If I ever get the opportunity, I’d love to open my own ice cream shop. The only problem is, I’m not sure where to start.

Am I too Ambitious? - My best friend says I need to put myself out there to find love. But I don’t believe in that approach. I’ve tried it, and I don’t think it’s the way I want things to unfold. I have faith that love will come when it’s meant to, and I’m okay with waiting for that timing. Not to brag but If I wanted to, I know I could easily have it like right now, but that’s not what I want. I’m not being too ambitious, I’m just unwilling to settle for a life that doesn’t align with my potential.

Taking care of my Bodyyy - The goal is "Flirty, Thirty, and Thriving" hahaha, just kidding! But seriously, it all started because I wanted a hobby outside of watching movies and anime, and it feels so good to move my body. It’s not really about getting fit, it’s about giving my body the care it deserves. I’m still new to all of this, but I’m having so much fun. When I say fun it includes so much research hahahaha, Let’s goooo!

I value my Sleep - I respect it at all costs. I wasn’t always like this, but as a vampire (night shift) project manager, sleep has become my key to delivering quality projects and communication. I might have found the perfect sleep routine, but sticking to it is definitely a challenge.

Teaching - This part-time role has been going on much longer than I expected. I just figured out recently why teaching makes me alive, it's because everyone laugh at my jokes! Hahahaha. Really though, I’m learning just as much along the way. I’m not just teaching for the sake of it, I’m also learning from my students, I’m learning in a way that’s hard to put into words, and it feels amazing!

That’s all for now! Hopefully, I wrote something relevant. Hahaha.

As I turn 29, I want to share these things :)

1. I think I've reached the peak of being happily single. It's crazy! I've found peace and happiness on my own. It's unbelievable!
2. Oh, I love cooking. I wasn't expecting to enjoy cooking this much, I also love going to the grocery store, I actually want to go now.
3. My take on romantic relationship: I want to be pursued. I know my self-worth now. :) My church mates always ask me, 'Where is the boyfriend?'  or 'When will I get married?' But I haven't found the one who genuinely loves me, and I do not want to awaken love until it so desires. I want to be pursued.
4. "It's better to eat something that's always available when you're hungry than to depend on something that runs out early every morning. And I mean every morning." This is my favorite movie quote this year, from Kinds of Kindness (2024).
5. I will always be the person who battles with trivial things, but I'm a little kinder to myself now. When I see myself becoming someone I don't want to be because of these trivial things, I stop. I've learned to stop.
6. I will always go for happiness, peace, and love.
7. Oh, I work the night shift now, and it really suits me. I'm a vampire.
8. She is clothed with strength and dignity, and she laughs without fear of the future. Proverbs 31:25 I strive to be this kind of woman.

It's finally over. I finished my Master's in Information Technology. Wohooo!!! I would like to keep this selection of my favorite photos for a lifetime.

Shopping time

It only took me 30 minutes to find a dress I liked. My loving Lola paid for it. (baliktad pa alampay hahahaha)

Shoes and accessories were challenging to pick. I'm messaging my beshie and sending all the options that might go with my dress, and she picked that out, including suggestions for jewelry. Being that I'm not that girl into this stuff, it's good I have my beshie. I'm thankful for my beshie!!!

It's graduation time. It's make-up time at 3:30 am HAHAHA. While I'm getting ready, I'm watching friends. :)))) I found my make-up artist online, and she's a student at PLV. (not my student)

I got a sunflower bouquet from my parents. So kilig!

Fave family photos

Fave solo photos

It was only one parent pass per student, thankfully one of my co-grads had an extra and let me have it. My parents were able to attend and sit like this. HAHAHA. They look so cute, so I took a picture.

Our professors at BSU and other Bulsuans who graduated.

My fave professor forever!

After graduation, we went home, slept for a few hours, and had a great dinner! At the restaurant, I asked if they could play BINI songs. Eyyyy!

I am writing a blog about my recent Japan trip since it is one of my dream countries. We visited Nagoya, Osaka, and Kyoto. I also like to point out that I picked my outfit carefully so I could walk freely but still adhere to the Japanese dress code. This is the Japanese way!

One of the best things about this trip is how relatable everything is, even a small window, the sliding doors, the music, the food, the trees, the houses, the road and buildings, the way people react and speak to one another (the kindest people in the world), the transportation, and even the staircases. The environment is so safe that I feel confident that I can stay or live here even if I am on my own. It feels like I'm living in an anime reality world. The feeling is so overwhelming that I cannot even describe it, I feel as if I belong here, I feel as if I was born to live here (OA), hahahaha.

It makes me want to go back as I write this. Here is my story, thoughts, my favorite photos, and the locations we visited during our trip to Jafun.

At the Airport

My whole family dropped me off at the airport (hindi ako namilit okay hahaha) they just love me so mucho.

Bye-bye, Philippines! Ohh, I have baon (mom's egg sandwich) and this mushroom chicharon I bought from the nail salon. It takes four hours to travel from Manila to Nagoya.

Hello Japan!

First snacks, and had a super late lunch when we arrived at our hotel.

Ghibli Store at Donguri Republic, Nagoya

Our next stop was the Ghibli Store in Nagoya! Take a look at this happy kid (what more if it was the Ghibli Museum? I would cry!).

Then we ate this delicious meji ice cream and oranges for midnight snacks before going to bed. I wore the free sleepwear provided by our hotel (as a Japanese gurlu, char). I feel so cozy and comfortable in it!

Good morning Jafun! This morning's show made me so happy. HAHAHA. We're Japanese people, so noodles for breakfast (char).

It's Day 2! We are about to go to a tour and visit Shirakawa-go and other areas nearby. I bought a pudding from Ministop that I can enjoy on the bus. Oh yeah!

We ate the best beef ever! It was so delicious! We also enjoyed the following street foods (except that one that looks karioka hehe).

In addition, I snapped some pictures of their morning market, food trucks, and other sights that brought joy to my heart.

Hello Shirakawa-go!

Here are a few more pictures from Shirakawa-go.

Hinotori Train

Day 3 is here! We boarded a limited express train to travel to Osaka. The kid is enjoying playing with the automated doors. I had my friends take my video. HAHAHA

Osaka

Using our Osaka Amazing Pass, we visited Tsutenkaku Tower and Osaka Castle. 2/40 bcoz. HAHAHA. Such fun.

After a long day, it is time for some Dotonbori fun. These are the moments when I am smiling, but deep inside I do not understand what is happening (I'm so tired). LOL.

Dotonbori foods we enjoyed!

ICHIRAN Ramen

Spend almost two hours in line to eat this. Is it delicious? Yes. Is it worth the wait? No.

We went to Universal Studios of Japan on Day 4!

The following are some of my favorite spots.

Nintendo World

I have played this game hihi. It is so sad that I lost my beret hat here.

The Wizarding World of Harry Potter

I rode a thrilling ride inside the Hogwarts castle with my beshie. It was a truly memorable experience for me. What a fun and unique ride. After riding this ride, I became aware of how advanced the technology here in Japan is. I'm in awe! It is an excellent experience if you are a Harry Potter fan, I wasn't, but I had a great time.

Kimetsu no Yaiba XR Ride - Race to Swordsmith Village

This was a ride that made me dizzy, but I found it to be so enjoyable. In this ride, you will be provided with a virtual reality glass and be able to see and feel as if you are on a train, with upper-rank demons trying to kill you, but Tanjiro, Nezuko, Zenitusu, and Inosuske save the day. What an immersive and engaging experience!

Minion World

Besides the My Hero Academia and Detective Conan stores, there was a four-dimensional show, but I was not able to watch it. There are actually a lot of 4-D live shows that I would really like to watch, but none of my friends are avid fans, and I don't want to make pilit (sad hahaha), and we're also running out of time.

As a movie lover, here are some of my other favorite spots! It was my beshie who took these wonderful solo photographs.

A few more photos from USJ. Thanks beshie!

My favorite USJ photo!

Hey, Shrek! Hey Siri, play Accidentally in Love!

Kyoto

We visited Kyoto on Day 5! As part of our itinerary, we visited Fushimi Inari Taisha and Arashiyama Bamboo Forest. There are five more locations we should visit, but you know how it goes.

I took these random pictures that made me smile. It has always been on my bucket list to watch a movie at the cinema when I travel abroad, and I hope I will be able to do so in the near future.

Supposedly our last night! BWAHAHA. I packed until 4AM, you know. I purchased another luggage in order to fit my entire life in it. I finished a bottle of beer because my beshie is weak (hati daw). HAHAHAHA

The white man also moved for seconds before posting like that after I gave him the coin.

I bought an energy drink since I have two luggages to carry. (I asked 711's service personnel what is the most effective energy drink, and they told me it's MONSTER.) HAHAHA. I also have a beautiful Ippo Makunouchi shirt to show off! (there were also Japanese people who complimented my shirt hihi) I'm ready, I'm Maha.

Then things began to happen. HAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHA! There are crazy things that can happen when you are not organized and you are a pagod.  (kaya motto ko in life ko yung "a goal without a plan is just a wish.") HAHAHA. In spite of this, I am grateful to these cuties!!!

I also told the whole fambam about it and my mom u know... HAHAHA. That evening, I also bought a dinner that I knew I deserved.

Another day has passed, and we are still alive and fighting.

It is finally time for us to return home! I jumped when I received my boarding pass (as in).

Until next time, Jafun! Hello, Philippines! Thank you Lord!

I have my sweet parents there to pick us up.

And so concludes our trip to Jafun!

In all seriousness, Japan is my favorite of all the countries I visited. How much more would I enjoy it if I had been to Tokyo? Tokyo is on my bucket list! It was the most challenging trip I had ever taken, but it was still one of the best. It is a gem for anime enthusiasts like myself, and I look forward to seeing more of it.

Moreover, I learned four important lessons that I think should be taken into account.

1. Make sure I take a full week's leave before leaving for an international trip to think through things, I admit that I wasn't "maha ready" on this trip because I was working so hard before leaving. It's all about the money money kasi this 2024. HAHAHA.
2. A reminder to myself that I am no longer in high school and I am not capable of doing so many things in one day. Our itinerary includes 4-6 locations per day, but in reality we visited only 2-3 locations. LOL.
3. I had difficulty absorbing each place we visited because we were always running out of time, and at this point in my life I enjoy taking things slowly and taking it all in. I'm not letting this happen again.
4. In the future, I will not bring two luggage and tell myself that I am Maha. HAHAHA. It's crazy, I'm crazy. Oh, the amount of struggle I had to endure because I had two luggages. This is something I will never do again!  It turns out there's a luggage transfer service!

Even though there were several lessons learned, the experience was nevertheless enjoyable. I will always remember this experience as it was truly unforgettable.

There's no place like Japan, I'll be back! 🇯🇵 ❤️

This is happening, it has happened! It was through Your Name (2016) that I found out about RADWIMPS, so I've been following them ever since. The way their music touched me, made me feel alive, and changed my perspective on life. An inspiration in every sense of the word.

When I saw the announcement that they would be performing here, I ran to my dad crying and jumping, he thought something bad had happened. Hahaha! I woke up my sisters and they got mad at me for waking them up. My mom wasn't home then, so I'm guessing she'll get mad because I'm too loud. This is how happy I was when I found out they were coming.

The day I bought the tickets, I was so sad that I didn't get a platinum standing, because that was my plan all along. I was on time, I had my devices ready, but no luck. Later that night, my sister saw a post that they released more platinum tickets, and finally I got them! We were able to secure two tickets for us, my heart is pounding and I'm shouting. It feels so good! Yay!

This blog is about sharing my videos and pictures from the RADWIMPS WORLD TOUR 2024 "THE WAY YOU YAWN, AND THE OUTCRY OF PEACE" in Manila, since it made me so happy. It was something I wanted to remember forever. Since I still wanted to focus on singing my heart out, I just try to capture a glimpse of their performance. Lezzzzzz goooo!!!

May 1st! It's finally concert day. The first thing on the agenda is getting our rad straps! We got there before 1pm.

We got rad straps! What a pretty thing! This is my first time attending a platinum standing concert, this makes me so happy!

After that, we're in line for official merch. Look at my pretty shirt!

We ate at KFC, then waited in line for the fan signing, and we got free stickers.

It's time to get in line to enter the venue, I was told the line would start at 4 pm, but it started earlier than expected, so we're a little behind. Someone gave this to us while we were waiting in line. Look at how cute it is! It's free! Yay!

It was so cute, I wore it right away. Check it out!

We're still alive after falling in line for 3 hours. LOL. Hahaha. When we finally get there, it's still 2 hours until the event starts, so we decided to rest and reserve our energy.

THE TIME HAS COME! Lights go out is the first song.

Followed by Never Ever Ender!

Aaaaaha. I'm listening to Yoji speak live for the first time. We are so ready!!!

Nanoka :) It's my fave right now!

When he sat by the piano, I knew this was the song. My eyes were tearing up and I got goosebumps.

Toaka is so pretty!!! Suzume live is here!

Yoji speaking again :)

It's Katawaredoki. I didn't think I'd hear it live. Trying to capture this, I'm shaking. That's my maarte voice, hahaha. When I heard this for the first time, I knew it had to be my wedding song. I'm sobbing. My heart is happy.

And I knew Sparkle was next, tears still flowing (iyakin) hahaha.

Zenzenzense here we go!

The thought that Nandemonaiya might not be performed broke my heart. I kept asking my sister "what happened to Nandemonaiya?" Then they played it. It was the best feeling!

lin Desu ka? is so fun!

Thank you, RADWIMPS! 🥺 🥺 🥺

Although I didn't capture all the songs, I want to keep these photos and videos forever through this blog. My eyes showed how much I enjoyed this. My heart is so so so happy.

Hey there! Life update!!!

1. Stay-at-home girl, confirmed. It has been more enjoyable for me to stay at home and do what I enjoy rather than going out.
2. I miss cinemaaaaaa, but I feel it is more valuable and fulfilling to watch it with someone else. I don't mind being alone but it's just how I feel at the moment, although there will always be exceptions (good movies, oh yeah), but I miss cinemaaaaaa.
3. I watched Perfect Days by Wim Wenders. I feel seen.
4. I'm revising all of my lectures because I believed I was capable of doing more, and it turns out that I am.
5. I am considering traveling alone next year. To accomplish this, I must prepare emotionally and physically, and I need more money. HAHAHAHAHA.

Finally, I'm free! This is the most accurate word to describe how I feel when submitting hard-bound copies to the Graduate School office. No revisions, no deadlines, no thesis! YAY! It didn't sink in until I colored my hair yesterday. You know what they say, "A woman who changes her hair is about to change her life" char, hahaha. I felt like all the toxicity and bad stuff had gone away. They made up 80% of my thesis- having stickies on everything, coming up with better words whenever I follow up with my panelists, staying up late trying to figure out how to make the most of the revisions I got (with just one panelist!!!), driving to the longest NLEX ever hahaha (for someone at that time who is just learning to drive, it is a challenging first experience but now it's like a walk in the park), selecting tokens that are not too sweet, affordable but appear expensive, printing like a moron (I wasted a lot of paper, ghaaad), going back and forth to school where I usually only spend 5 minutes there, trying to remain positive, otherwise, I may become crazy (Proverbs 4:23!!!).

A few days ago, I asked my dad to help me find an affordable but of high quality copy center. It turned out that there was one near the University of the East Caloocan. It's a bit far from school and home, but it's worth the trip.

It was really nerve-wracking the day of pick-up. I feel everything will turn out wrong and I need to start over. However, I told myself that I did everything I could to prevent such a thing from happening, so there is that small measure of peace. My hard bound copies were just what I expected when I got there. I just have a few comments, but it's okay overall. It was around 2pm at that time. I had a work meeting and needed to run to school before the office closed at 5pm. Getting to school from Caloocan was totally new to me. It was my first time, so my dad drew a sketch for me, since I'm sure I'll get lost. I made it after all the traffic shit! When I got there 30 minutes before closing, I submitted my copies. It wasn't as happy as when I got my hair colored, maybe because I was exhausted. The office told me all I needed to do was wait until my graduation deliberation, which may be in June or September. It doesn't matter to me because being free is what I care about most. As I was getting ready to leave for home, I decided that I wanted a picture with my violet hard-bound copy, so I asked a girl walking near the library to take my picture. I strike a pose that shows I'm free, and that feels great.

The fact that I'm done feels unreal right now. Oh, well, I'm happy, it's been 7 years in the making, including my life dramas. What should I do next? I'll start by watching my pending watchlist, oh and I want to travel, a lot! Lezzzzz gooooo!

It finally happened! This happened at the most unexpected time, and it was perfect. Here are some stories about my crazy journey before and during the final defense.

My thesis journey has been crazy and chaotic, and there have been times I didn't want to do it because it was too frustrating, tiresome, and dull. I'm too old for this. I just want to watch more movies and anime or ask questions like does it still matter? What would I get out of this? Do I have the time and energy for this? Is there something else I should be doing? It was one of my friends who asked me if I would still keep working on my thesis. I think that's when I decided to keep going, knowing nothing but just figuring it out as I went, trying to bring out my old studious self who loves high quality and scheduling and who'll make it happen in the most organized way possible, if I don't have that kind of mindset, I will fail this badly, so I started working on it, in a way I know I'll win somehow.

Tears stream down my cheeks as I write this because I still can't comprehend what happened. I remember crying in the middle of the night while eating my favorite snacks because it was too hard, and I didn't have anyone to talk to. I remember going home from Starbucks so late and tired, and I had to walk, commute, and find a jeep to take me home. And I cried so hard while sitting in the jeep. It was a good thing I was wearing a mask. Also, I remember this person helping me resolve something in my thesis, but then asking for a "date" as payment. That made me cry, too. Yeah, hahaha. Iyakin. My list could go on and on, but these are the ones that stand out the most to me.

As I sometimes get too emotional, I used my other x account instead. I tend to write too much based on my feelings, so it helped me let out all my thoughts, and one reason is also to avoid being distracted from anime and movies when working on my thesis.

My thesis playlist is also curated based on my mood or emotions since I'm an emotional gal. Right now, the latest song is playing on a loop. I will not elaborate. lol

Every day, six times a week at most, I go to Starbucks to finish my paper. The longest time I stayed there was from 7 a.m. to 1 a.m. They close at 2 a.m., so it's the perfect place to focus and finish my paper. Thank you, Starbucks, forever!

When I submitted my manuscripts on July 1st, I expected to have my final defense that same month, but if God didn't want it to happen, it wouldn't. When I received the final defense schedule email last month, I didn't even see it at first if they didn't send me an SMS, for at that point, I was losing my momentum, I was not thinking about it anymore, and I was back to being carefree. After reading the text message, my heart beats so fast I feel like I can hear it, and I'm shaking so hard as I'm trying to think too much. I started preparing a week later since I needed a headstart.

The first thing I did was polish my PowerPoint presentation, research how Apple presents its presentations, and also how to create the best presentations, and yes, not just presentations, but the BEST presentations. I'm doing this not just for my panelists but also for myself. There were a lot of changes and revisions along the way, but I managed to create a presentation I'd be proud to present.

Now, the practice of speaking/presenting. I started by writing my script, one I'll feel comfortable delivering. If you know me, my most significant strength is communication, so I used that strength and studied how to give a killer presentation. The goal was to get my audience's attention so they wouldn't be so focused on the system, but they will focus on me instead. Hahaha. What's the point? Revising the system after would be hard and take a lot of time. The process of fixing a paper is something I can handle, but modifying a system would take a lot more time, and I'm not too fond of that. I've been there, and it drains me. I worked on strengthening my communication and presentation skills. The defense is two days away, and I also studied hand gestures, which immensely helped me.

A few days before the defense, I tested everything at the university. The internet connection: since my system includes attendance management, I recheck if the attendance GPS is working as expected/real-time and check the room where I'll have my defense. I asked the librarian if she could let me check it so I could bring the right technology tools I might need. I checked where to park, the best parking where there won't be so much walking because I can't be tired, and where I can buy snacks for the panelists. Yeah! I checked everything that could help me produce good results. They might be small, but their impact would be huge if one went wrong. I got home so tired (sana talaga nag jeep na lang ako, hahaha), but I knew it was worth it.

On the day of the presentation, I was shaking but confident. I'm optimistic because I'm prepared. I've prayed for this, and people have prayed for me. As I setup my laptop, the room's installed cable was grounded, which caused the display to shake, so it's good I brought my own "survival kit," which has all the tech tools I needed, including a 5m HDMI cable (hahaha, I'm super proud of myself lol), which brought peace to the world (me).

The time had come for me to present, and one audience member introduced me, the panelist, which made me tremble when I stood up in front of the crowd. Despite feeling nervous, the words I said during my presentation were what I practiced, so I didn't mention anything that came from nervousness. Sometimes, I think I speak unclearly because of worry, but I've survived. Hand gestures helped me. Folding my hands as a hand gesture kept me from shaking and made me remember what I needed to say (I don't know, but it's like magic, hahaha).

My introduction before getting to the main topic is my favorite part. I worked hard to deliver a strong message and gain momentum, and I believe I did this well while watching their reactions. Thanks to my technical adviser, who suggested an effective opening topic. Showing the AVPs of the system instead of the actual system is the best part of presenting. This might have happened because the panelists were happy with my presentation and the AVPs I showed them (my main goal). I answered all the questions asked with confidence, not thinking it through. I want to show them I know my research so well.

Afterward, they asked me, my dad, my adviser, and my friends, to go out for a bit for the panelist deliberations. While waiting, I talked to my adviser, and she said that AVPs are good and I've presented well. It gave me a feeling that the results would be favorable. We got back, and they announced the results of a high pass. I got 4.9 out of 5, which made me jump forward. I'm so happy, I don't have words to explain it. The panelists told me I was very good at presenting. My becoming a potato nights were all worth it due to their kind words. For the minor revisions, I have one month to complete them, and while I was standing there, I calculated how long it would take me to finish the minor corrections. I'm that girl. lol

I am working on revisions and plan to finish them by this week or the beginning of October. I'm finally living my life while working with these revisions since I don't have to run and cry anymore. I feel so good.

My thanks go out to those who believed and prayed for me. They're what made my final defense successful. One elder at church says he's always praying for me, not just for my thesis but even for the right person for me, he's always saying that guy will be so lucky to have me. That's so sweet. He tells me these things all the time, he just did it again yesterday, so whenever we speak, I feel at peace, knowing that someone is always praying for me.

God's timing is perfect, it may not happen when you expected it to, but if it happens in God's timing, everything will happen as it should. That's what happened during my final defense. :) God is good!

I remember this from a podcast I listened to recently. "If it's for you, God will make it happen!"

August, you're so fun! I have enjoyed August since I have this sense of freedom to go anywhere I want. Listed below are some of this month's highlights that made my heart sing.

Driving

I've been driving a lot these days, and I feel stoked but tired at the same time. My emotions can get mixed up while driving, especially when heading somewhere for the first time. I rely on apps for navigation, and when the signal is unreliable, I've run into problems since my navigation skills are terrible. Hahaha! Additionally, I've been caught twice by powerful forces (iykyk), but my negotiation power saved me both times. HAHAHA. Whenever I need to wait, I also sleep in parking lots. I bought a battery-powered fan recently, which is life-changing since I can save gas! I also have self-defense weapons. If someone attempted, I have simulated what I would do several times in my mind. Plus, if I'm lost, I always call my dad, who's like a walking map. I bet my dad always freaks out when he sees me calling. Lol

Cinemalaya 2023

I went to the PICC to watch the 19th edition of Cinemalaya. This was my first long drive, so I was nervous the first time, but I made it and followed my schedule.

Here are the movies I've watched :)

https://letterboxd.com/mahabernardino/list/cinemalaya-2023-full-length-films-ranked/

https://letterboxd.com/mahabernardino/list/cinemalaya-2023-short-films-ranked/

Despite always being wiped out when I get home, I enjoy watching, walking, eating, and then more walking and staying in the car. On my first day, I parked in this vast place that didn't feel safe, so the second time, I tried a different parking spot that felt safe but too far, then I found a place that felt completely safe and near the cinema on my third try. This is unforgettable for me, so I'm writing it down. There's something new every day, and I love it.

Otaku Expo Tanabata Festival 2023

I found an OOTD that will make me feel happy to explore the festival. I want to feel like I belong, haha. It's fun. It's always tempting to join the singing competition, but I know I'm not yet ready. Maybe next time? Lol. My favorite things are always collecting stickers and eating food that makes me happy, so I'm pleased. In addition to my purple shiny talong, I took home a cat carpet that looks so adorable. Overall, it's been awesome! I'll make any anime event fun as long as I make it fun.

Back to School

This gurl needs to interact with people since working from home is monotonous, haha. Therefore, I'm still teaching. Plus, it's better for my soul. To keep my hobbies and work in balance, I only teach at times and schedules I'm comfortable with. :)

Tick, Tick... Boom! Manila

I've always been fascinated by theatre, so now that I'm driving, I can finally go and see a show. I love how theatre people can touch your heart and make you think about life in just a few minutes. Theatre can transport you to different worlds and give you a different perspective. It can make you feel a range of emotions and help you appreciate life. I'm glad I finally got the chance to experience the power of theatre again. It feels so energizing. Oh, it's so good for my health. There's a sense of aliveness, and I want more. I was mesmerized by Khalil Ramos! He was so talented and captivating.

Just a few days are left in August, and September is around the corner. The only thing I've got planned is Hamilton, which I couldn't watch on my birthday since tickets sold out fast. :( But I'm looking forward to what else September holds. I pray it will be a great month!

I just woke up and wanted to share some highlights of July. I'm loving how this month is going! ❤️  This is from my phone, so I hope the formatting works.

1. My final defense for my master's thesis is coming up, and I'm so excited! There's no date confirmation yet, so I don't feel pressured. While I wait, I'm trying to explore life and relax. I know the timing will be perfect, and I'll make it happen. 🙏🏻 Oh, I can't wait to pick my defense suit!
2. I'm all settled in my new room. Now I know where my savings go. 😆 There's still tons to organize, but I'm finally sleeping well. Having my TV back in action is convenient too. Man, I'll never forget the cleaning I did. Lol
3. I'm driving on my own! Parents give me the green light? Finally Hahaha! The constant driving makes me miss being a passenger since my dad always asks me to drive. I’m just so tired all the time. 😅 Whenever I drive, my mom says I'm too talkative. Well, it's just me entertaining myself. Recently, I went to the malls alone to watch movies, and my cinephile heart is so happy, oh so satisfying.
4. My breakouts caused me to breakout recently hahaha. Crazy feeling, but I'm feeling good now. Probably the emotions because I can't eat chocolate at the moment. ☹️
5. Trying something I never thought I would do and it's going well?

Let's go! It's going to be a great month!

My sleepiness might make me forget this, so I want to write it down now. I don't know if it's just because my body is so tired today that thoughts are popping in, and a vision has struck me! My last vision was connected to my past relationship, which I am glad to have seen. Anyway, back to reality, haha, today was a long day, and I realized one thing that led to another. I'll keep this short since I still wanted to watch a movie before ending my day (watching has this magic to take my sleepiness away. haha).

Well, here it goes

While I was doing some crazy things earlier today, this thought popped out of nowhere: I'm doing many things right now, and I don't know if I'm really enjoying and wanting what I'm doing ( I don't have the energy right now to elaborate on this, so sorry, haha).

Suddenly this crazy vision appears (I don't know how, haha). I paused and thought about it for a while, anddddddd that is what I wanted! The more I think about it, the more I am convinced! Crazzzzy!

The whole thing (vision) feels real but out of reach at the moment (maybe I'm willing to share when it happens! hahaha). Since I trust God's timing, I don't worry too much though I wanted more details (details I was interested in knowing like now, so crazy HAHAHA). Nevertheless, I'm so glad I saw it. Maybe I am just tired, but I still feel like it is real. Crazzzzy!

This blog is, however, the blog of my crazy thoughts, so I'll end this by saying I hope it comes true :)