Disclaimer: THIS IS NOT SPONSORED. I just found the one!
It is the one. The best luggage for me at this point. The brand? MONOS!!! The best investment for your money.
See that? I overpacked it for 22 days, as evidenced by the bulge, and rolled for kilometers. My boyfriend dragged it because I’m a travel princess. LOL. And I kid you not, he pulled it carelessly and dragged it down the stairs each time we moved from one place to another.
This luggage was not only in the carry-on, but we also used it for check-in. And we all know that check-in luggage is treated badly. It didn’t have a great time in taxis and trains, but it held up so well.
Although this is not cheap compared to other luggage brands, it is not as expensive as Rimowa and it is worth every penny. Just choose a color that does not easily get dirty.
The first month of 2025 has been good to me. I traveled to places. Met a lot of people. Ate lots of different food – pasta, cheese, and pastries to name some. Traveling is a fun way of learning. January made me appreciate life again.
MIA – missing in action. I have been MIA in the past few months. To the self that promised herself to be more consistent on her blog writing, I apologize as this present self has to be present in her priorities the moment is asking for. I need to cram writing my thesis and it is not easy. I will be MIA for the next weeks again and I hope to get back after this battle I am fighting. LOL. Ciao!
It’s easy to feel overwhelmed by emotions. However, it’s essential to recognize that our thoughts often precede our feelings. Understanding this connection can empower us to take charge of our emotional landscape.
When we experience a strong emotion, it’s typically rooted in our thoughts—our interpretations, beliefs, and narratives about a situation. For example, if you think, “I’ll never succeed,” that thought can evoke feelings of despair and inadequacy. Conversely, if you shift that narrative to, “I am capable and learning from my experiences,” you’ll likely feel more hopeful and motivated.
This shift isn’t always easy, but it is possible. Start by becoming aware of your thoughts. Journaling can be a powerful tool—write down your thoughts and examine how they influence your emotions. Are they constructive or destructive? Challenge any negative thoughts and replace them with affirmations that inspire confidence and resilience.
Remember, thoughts are not facts. They are simply perceptions that can be reshaped. By consciously choosing empowering thoughts, you can foster positive emotions that lead to action and growth.
So, the next time you feel overwhelmed, take a moment to pause. Ask yourself: What am I thinking right now? Reframe those thoughts, and watch as your feelings transform.
You hold the power to create the mindset that fuels your dreams. Choose wisely, and let your thoughts pave the way to a more fulfilling emotional journey.
Life is a series of ups and downs, victories and setbacks. In a society that often celebrates success, it’s easy to feel ashamed when you find yourself labeled as a “loser.” But what if I told you that it’s not only okay to feel this way at times, but it’s also a vital part of growth? Here’s why embracing those moments can be transformative.
1. Redefining Success
The first step in accepting your “loser” moments is to redefine what success means to you. Society often equates success with wealth, status, and constant achievement. However, success is subjective. It can mean personal growth, learning from failure, or simply having the courage to try something new. Acknowledging that it’s okay to struggle can free you from the relentless pressure to perform.
2. Learning Through Failure
Every setback is a lesson in disguise. When you fail, you’re presented with an opportunity to learn more about yourself, your strengths, and your weaknesses. Thomas Edison famously said, “I have not failed. I’ve just found 10,000 ways that won’t work.” Each “failure” can guide you toward eventual success by highlighting areas for improvement and prompting reflection.
3. Building Resilience
Experiencing loss or failure teaches resilience. Life isn’t always about winning; it’s about how you respond to challenges. Embracing your moments of defeat helps you build mental fortitude, preparing you for future obstacles. Resilience is like a muscle; the more you use it, the stronger it becomes.
4. Creating Authentic Connections
When you’re open about your struggles, you allow others to do the same. Sharing your “loser” moments can foster deep, authentic connections with those around you. Vulnerability breeds empathy, and you may find that many people have faced similar challenges. This sense of community can provide support and remind you that you’re not alone.
5. Redirection and Reinvention
Sometimes, being a “loser” can lead you to paths you never considered. When you face setbacks, it can be an opportunity to reassess your goals and passions. Perhaps what you initially aimed for wasn’t truly aligned with who you are. These moments can serve as a catalyst for reinvention, leading you to discover new passions and directions in life.
6. Challenging Societal Norms
Finally, it’s essential to challenge the stigma around failure and the label of being a “loser.” By embracing your experiences and sharing them with others, you contribute to a culture that values authenticity over perfection. Every successful person has faced setbacks; the difference is often in how they respond to them.
In a world that often values success over struggle, it’s crucial to remember that it’s perfectly okay to be a “loser” at some point in your life. These moments are not the end of the road; they’re stepping stones toward growth, learning, and ultimately, a deeper understanding of yourself. Embrace your journey, imperfections and all, and remember: every setback is just a setup for a comeback.
In today’s digital age, words hold immense power. They are the bridge connecting thoughts, ideas, and emotions across the vast landscape of the internet. If only I could touch every word that has ever been spoken, written, or searched for! If I could reach out and touch those words, I would uncover the heartbeats of countless stories, from the mundane to the extraordinary.
The Magic of Words
Words are more than just tools for communication; they are vessels of emotion, intent, and creativity. Each word carries a weight, a history, and a myriad of interpretations. If I could touch every word, I would feel the echoes of countless stories and experiences. People search for advice, seek solutions to problems, or simply look for inspiration. If I could delve deeper into each word, I would unearth the hidden motivations and feelings behind them.
The Stories Behind the Searches
Whenever someone types a query into a search engine, they reveal a piece of their soul. Are they seeking help with a problem? Searching for inspiration? Or simply looking to escape into a world ideal for them? If I could access those hidden layers behind each search term, I would gain insight into the collective human experience. I would understand the hopes and fears, the triumphs and struggles, that drive people to who they are becoming.
CraftingMeaningfulContent
As a writer, I dream of crafting content that resonates. If I could truly touch every word, I would know exactly what people need to hear. I could weave together narratives that speak to their hearts, providing solace, inspiration, and motivation. The ability to connect deeply with the audience through the right words would elevate storytelling to new heights.
Listening to the Digital Echoes
In essence, the internet is a vast echo chamber of human thought. Every search, every click, sends ripples through the digital realm. If I could grasp those echoes, I would like to listen closely to the dialogues occurring around the world. This understanding could lead to a more compassionate and informed society.
The Future of Words
As we move into an increasingly digital future, our relationship with words continues to evolve. From text messages to social media, the way we express ourselves is changing. If I could touch every word, I would engage with the evolving language of our times, understanding the nuances of communication in the digital age. I would embrace new forms of expression while honoring the timeless power of language.
I am feeling extra guilty today for overspending this month. T.T
I also overprocrastinated, trying to avoid something important to gain control over my life again.
September hasn’t ended and yet I overspent $400 this month alone, which is equivalent to PhP 22,000! And I am not proud of it. T.T
I wasted 24 hrs to escape from the task I need my focus and attention the most.
These two things I am not proud of and feel very guilty about, especially today. So, I am challenging myself for a month of no spending except for healthy food. Also, of using my time wisely.
But, let me identify first why I am doing these two bad habits knowing that they are bad habits?
1. I am overwhelmed about writing my dissertation and scared of looking at the revisions. My inner soul is so freaked out it diverts itself to instant gratification, such as buying stuff or doing other things like cooking or sleeping instead of facing my fear.
Then, identify what has been done and what can be done?
I already bought them, and that’s done. I can eventually sell or give away some of my stuff that does not spark joy anymore and STOP accumulating more stuff starting today. Any amount you are thinking of spending, put them in stocks. Invest your money in your retirement and future – something that can still be done.
I already spent my time doom scrolling and doing other stuff instead of the important things, and that’s done. Time is our most precious asset use it wisely. I can start being more organize and face my fear instead of running away from it. Any second I am thinking of scrolling or doing unnecessary stuff, grab a research article and read it thoroughly. Invest your time in your growth: read, write, meditate, run, learn stock trading, learn a new language, learn how to create digital product, or learn how to become a part-time content creator. Allocate a couple of minutes to focus and give your attention at the task at hand.
Small efforts that consistently done everyday will accumulate towards a better you. Let’s do two things everyday:
The first watch I remember having was a pink Baby-G that my mom gave me when I was 7 yo but lost in a typhoon. And, I guess that when I started liking wearing one. It took me some years before I finally had money from my own pocket to buy a decent one. Can you guess which one?
Above is the image with all my watches. I do not have a high-end watch yet because I cannot afford one. LOL. They are all below $200, and the most expensive and treasured one in this collection is the big automatic SEIKO. Let me list from the one closest to my hand down my arm:
1. Citizen Women’s Watch
I could not find the model number. LOL. But this is originally my mom’s. She bought one for me and one for her. Mine had already broken, and then she gave me hers. To date this has been with us since 2008.
Years with me: 16
Size: 20 mm
Pros: Durability. Versatility. No battery needed.
Cons: Not waterproof. You have to wear it often so you keep it running well.
Price (in Ebay): $100-200
2. Timex Indiglo
The second-hand second mid-brand watch I bought with my own money. I love the leather wristband that makes it versatile in a formal or casual outfit. Bought this a year after I graduated from my undergrad online for $35.
Years with me: 10
Size: 21 mm
Pros: Versatility. Light feature of Indiglo when you are in a very dark place.
Cons: Not easy to find leather band. Not waterproof. Needs battery every 3-5 yrs.
Price (in Ebay): $22-50
3. Seiko Women (SWR053)
My recent buy. Got this one month ago because of the Cartier Tank that slapped me in the face that I cannot afford it. HAHA. This is the perfect alternative, and it costs only a fraction of the Cartier. So elegant and classy. You can wear it in a dress or even in jeans.
Month/s with me: 1
Size: 18 mm
Pros: Versatility. Very light weight. Dupe of Cartier Tank without breaking the bank.
Cons: Needs break-in for the leather part. Requires battery.
Price (in Jomashop): $109
4. Fossil (f2)
My most used and had the highest ROI. My first watch to buy with my own money before graduating from my undergrad. I used this everyday. Got this wet while washing the dishes and I even accidentally wet this in the shower and in the beach but still working perfectly fine!
Years with me: 12
Size: 19 mm
Pros: Versatility. Duarability.
Cons: Needs battery. The gold tone will fade if it always gets wet.
This is my favorite and treasured watch in my budget-friendly collection, you are right! It is given to me by my late father. Very versatile boyfriend watch from casual to dressing up!
Years with me: 7
Size: 38 mm
Pros: Does not need a battery. Versatile. Water resistant.
Cons: If you are not using it for some time, you have to wind it a bit again to make it work again.
Price (in Jomashop): $129
6. Casio BGD140-1A Women’s Baby-G Black
Because I miss my Baby G watch I had when I was a kid and I lost my Timex IRONMAN (which I highly recommend because it is very durable and not very big for the wrist compared to this Baby-G), I had an excuse tp buy this one. Used it in all the harsh weather locations.
Year/s with me: 1
Size: 42 mm
Pros: Very durable in the snowy, hot, and rainy conditions. Has light for dark settings.
Cons: Very dark dial so it is difficult to see the time. Difficult to clean. Needs battery.
Price: $70-100
7. Daniel Wellington Classic Sheffield
There was a year that this watch was very popular and as a bandwagoner, I had to get one. LOL. It was a good buy. Brought this in my very first trip abroad in 2018 and it served me well in all my outfits.
Years with me: 6
Size: 36 mm
Pros: Durable. Versatile with different outfits despite the size.
Cons: Leather band needs breaking in. Needs battery every 3-4 yrs.
Price (on the site): $199
8. (Not in the photo) Apple Watch Series 3 38 mm
I am not a big fan of digital watch and was not planning to get one til I found this one with the perfect size and did not break my bank (bought this second hand for $87). It helped me get back to my exercise habit but still I will not buy this brand new unless gifted to me. LOL.
Years with me: 2.5
Size:38 mm
Pros: Water resistant. Easy to charge. Reduces time to use phone.
Cons: Needs charging everyday.
That’s it! Over the years, I had several other watches, midbrands, unbranded ones, and a Swatch that was gifted to me and lasted for 3 years. I learned that investing in a quality watch pays in the long run, especially if you wear a watch everyday. A quality watch does not always equate to breaking the bank. Yes, I cannot afford a ten grand watch but each mid-brand watch I have had served me well for years, and most of them are still serving me during formal or casual days.
My most viewed entry in my blog has always been the scientific names in the song “Bahay Kubo.” Recently, a new segment on Showtime, “Throwbox”, asked for the English name of sigarilyas, which I agree is difficult, especially for vegetables we do not commonly consume. So, here is my entry to learn the English name/s of the vegetables in the song Bahay Kubo.
Lyrics
Bahay-kubo, kahit munti Ang halaman doon ay sari-sari Singkamas (JÃcama, Mexican yam bean, Mexican turnip, or Spanish jÃcama) at talong (Eggplant, aubergine) Sigarilyas (Winged bean) at mani (Peanut) Sitaw (String bean), bataw (Hyacinth beans), patani (Lima beans)
Kundol (Wax gourd, white gourd, winter gourd, winter melon), patola (Sponge gourd, silk squash), upo’t (Bottle gourd) kalabasa (Pumpkin, squash) At tsaka mayro’n pang Labanos (Radish), mustasa (Mustard leaves) Sibuyas (Onion), kamatis (Tomato), bawang (Garlic) at luya (Ginger) Sa paligid-ligid ay puno ng linga (Sesame)
——
The vegetables in the lyrics are rich in nutrients, minerals, antioxidants, and antibacterial properties. Eat veggies to strengthen your immune system.
larswrites 