Working on the blog for this week.

Since my mom passed away in 2021, my dad has been traveling alone quite frequently. Even at 77 years old, he remains very active and independent, continuing to visit places like the United States, Canada, and different parts of Europe on his own. I admire how he keeps exploring the world at his age, staying curious and open to new experiences. He even attended the Paris Olympics and made the most of the experience, enjoying the atmosphere of such a major global event. He also visited me when I was working in Singapore, which was a meaningful time for both of us since we don’t often get long periods together. Right now, he is back in Paris for a three-month stay, spending time with a high school friend at a church seminary. It gives me peace of mind knowing he has old friends there and a comfortable place to stay while continuing his travels and daily routines abroad.

This Month's Quote

“Procrastination turns simple tasks into stressful problems. The longer you delay, the heavier the task feels. Small progress today is better than perfect plans tomorrow.”

Mario Galaxy in the Cinema with Kids

Movie night with family...

We previously watched the first The Super Mario Bros. Movie as a family and everyone really enjoyed it. This time, we watched the sequel, which was still enjoyable, although I personally felt the first movie was better and more fast-paced. The sequel was entertaining enough for the kids, but it did not have the same energy and excitement that made the first film stand out for me. Overall, though, it was still a fun family movie experience. Jace was also very cooperative throughout the show and stayed calm the entire time without making any unusual noises, which made the viewing much more relaxing for us. Our only real concern was that the cinema at SM City Marikina was extremely cold. Since it was a weekday screening with fewer than ten people inside the theater, the air-conditioning probably felt much stronger than usual.

Ikea and more Ikea

No brainer assembly...

This month, we bought and assembled several additional IKEA furniture pieces for the house. At first, I focused on reassembling some of our existing IKEA items, including our old white tables and the MAMMUT kids' table and chairs, which had been disassembled during the move. As we continued organizing the house, we realized that the kids needed more furniture, so we purchased two bed frames, a wardrobe closet, a floor lamp, and two work table sets. I spent time assembling all of these items and was able to complete everything except for the lamp. The lamp requires electrical installation and mounting work that involves going up the stairs, so I decided to leave that for later. For now, the only thing I have done is install the light bulbs and prepare the lamp for final setup. While assembling furniture can be time-consuming, it was satisfying to see the rooms gradually becoming more organized, functional, and ready for everyday use. Ikea philippines.

Buying a Dashcam after getting a questionable violation

Road evidence and insurance...

After being cited for what I believed was a contestable yellow-light violation, I unfortunately did not have any dashcam footage that could have served as evidence. Without proof to support my side, I had no choice but to settle the ₱2,000 fine, either through City Hall or the online payment system. The experience was frustrating, but it also served as a valuable reminder. Going forward, I plan to be more cautious when approaching intersections, especially when the green light starts blinking, and simply stop whenever it is safe to do so rather than risk a violation. I also intend to purchase and install a new dashcam as soon as possible so that I will have video evidence available should a similar situation arise in the future. ddpai z50.

Challenges of unpacking unsorted Balikbayan boxes

Sorting sorting sorting...

This month, I continued working on clearing and organizing four balikbayan boxes that had been sitting in storage. Along the way, I also had to deal with several old furniture pieces and appliances, deciding whether to relocate them, dispose of them, or find better storage areas within the house. My goal is to completely clear and organize all the boxes by the end of June. As of the end of May, only two medium-sized boxes remain unopened, although many of the items that have already been unpacked still need to be properly sorted and stored. The process has been more time-consuming than expected, as it involves deciding what to keep, donate, discard, or relocate. In addition to the physical items, I have also started planning a cleanup of important documents, paperwork, and digital files. Organizing these records should help reduce clutter and make it easier to find things when needed. While there is still a fair amount of work left to do, significant progress has already been made toward creating a more organized and manageable living space.

Summer vacation in Spring Highlands with Family

Summer vacation...

Before Papa left for Paris, we took a short summer getaway near Antipolo with my side of the family. It was a simple day trip, but it was a nice opportunity for everyone to spend time together before his departure. Among all of us, Joyce seemed to enjoy the trip the most, especially the time spent swimming and playing around the resort. The location was only about a 30-minute drive away, although the trip took a little longer because I got lost along the way. I blame Google Maps for sending us in the wrong direction, and we had to turn back and retrace our route before finally arriving. Despite the minor detour, we made it to the resort around 9:00 AM and stayed until about 5:00 PM. It was a short but refreshing break from our usual routine. The pool was cool and enjoyable, which was perfect for the summer heat, and the lunch served was surprisingly good. Most importantly, we were able to relax, catch up with family, and enjoy a carefree day together.

To top it all off, Papa generously covered all the expenses for the trip. As always, nothing beats free accommodation, free food, and good company. It may not have been a long vacation, but it was a memorable family outing and a great way to spend time together before Papa's three-month stay in Paris. Springs at Eastland Heights.

Udon and Tempura Craze, limited our pallet

Every now and then, a bowl of udon paired with crispy tempura makes for a refreshing and satisfying meal...

My daughter really loved this place. Aside from ramen, she’s also very happy to order udon, especially when she wants something milder and more comforting. Joyce particularly enjoys Japanese and Chinese noodle dishes, and she always gets excited whenever noodles are on the menu. Marugame has become one of our go-to casual restaurants whenever we’re craving Japanese food. We like that the food is served quickly but still tastes fresh and satisfying, especially the udon bowls and tempura sides. The self-service style also makes the experience feel simple and relaxed, which works well for quick family meals.

Recently, we’ve found ourselves eating Japanese cuisine quite often—around four to five times a month. It has slowly become part of our regular rotation, whether it’s for a quick lunch, a casual dinner, or just to satisfy sudden cravings for something warm and savory. Marugame udon.

Papa is back in Paris for a three-month stay

Dads' gateways at 70...

Basically, my dad has been traveling alone quite a bit since my mom passed away in 2021. Even at 77 years old, he has remained very active and independent, managing to visit places like the United States, Canada, and several parts of Europe on his own. It’s impressive how he continues to explore the world at his age, staying curious and open to new experiences. He even went to the Paris Olympics and made the most of the trip, experiencing the atmosphere and energy of the city during such a major global event. He also visited me in Singapore when I was working there, which was a really meaningful time for us since we don’t always get to spend long stretches together. Now, he’s back in Paris again for a three-month stay, spending time with a high school friend at a church seminary. It’s nice knowing he has old friends there and a place where he can settle in comfortably while still continuing his travels and daily routines abroad.

Mama

We have visited mamas' grave this 31st. Its her 5th year death anniversary Good Bye Mama, Rest Well

Planning big but doing nothing about it!

Plans but no actions...

This month was filled with major adjustments, home improvements, and family activities as we continued settling into our new routine in Santolan, Pasig. One of the biggest developments was the installation of our 6kW hybrid solar setup with a 16kWh battery system, which cost around ₱290,000. Although battery and equipment prices had already increased by the time we finalized the project, we still decided to proceed because of rising electricity costs and our growing household consumption. The installation itself was completed within a single day, and we estimate that the system can significantly reduce our monthly electric bill while also eliminating most of our LPG cooking expenses. With our increased usage from air-conditioning, water heating, induction cooking, and other appliances, the equivalent monthly electric cost could have reached around ₱9,000 without solar. Based on our computations, the setup could potentially pay for itself in around three years under higher consumption conditions, while also protecting us from future electricity price increases. The solar system was installed by El'Sol Wealth Phils Engineering Services.

At the same time, we officially started transitioning from our apartment in Parañaque to our house in Santolan, Pasig. While the new place is not necessarily our dream home, it currently fits our family’s needs better. One major advantage is that we own the property, giving us the flexibility to renovate, improve the structure, and install systems like solar panels without restrictions from landlords or association policies. The location is also more practical for us because it is closer to my side of the family, has accessible garbage collection, lower maintenance costs, and remains conveniently located within the city. Of course, there are also trade-offs, such as tighter streets, more crowded surroundings, limited amenities compared to subdivisions, and occasional concerns about noise and parking. Even so, the move feels like a practical and worthwhile step for our current situation.

Most of the month was also spent finishing remaining renovations and organizing the house. We completed several minor fixes such as preparing the understair wall for TV mounting, repainting certain areas, adjusting fixtures, repositioning air-conditioning units, and installing additional water pipes and bathroom accessories. Cabinets, furniture, and storage spaces were also arranged little by little to make the home more functional and comfortable for everyday living. While none of the individual changes were major on their own, together they helped make the house feel far more complete and livable.

Outside of home-related activities, we spent many weekends exploring nearby malls around the eastern Metro Manila area. We visited SM City Marikina, SM City Masinag, Opus Mall, Ayala Malls Feliz, Robinsons Metro East, Sta. Lucia East Grand Mall, and Eastwood Mall. These trips were partly for leisure and partly because Kat and Jace needed more walking exercises, and mall walking provided a comfortable and air-conditioned environment for that. Each mall had its own atmosphere, dining choices, and style, making the experience enjoyable and varied. One practical stop was the Medical Depot in Sta. Lucia, where we were able to purchase colostomy bags and other needed medical supplies.

Our weekends also included attending Saturday Mass at the Chapel of the Archangels beside Opus Mall. The chapel has become one of our preferred places for worship because of its spacious, peaceful, and fully air-conditioned environment. We also appreciate the convenience of fixed-rate parking and the relaxed atmosphere of the surrounding mall area. After Mass, we usually spend time walking around, exploring shops, or trying different restaurants and cafes. Although dining there tends to be expensive, the overall comfort and ambiance make it a pleasant place for family time and quiet weekends.

During quieter moments this month, I also spent time reading several manhwa series. Titles such as Magic Academy’s Genius Blinker, The Max Level Player’s 100th Regression, The Great Mage Returns After 4000 Years, and Limit Breaking Genius Mage all revolved around themes of hidden potential, powerful protagonists, magic, regression, and overcoming limitations. These stories were entertaining to follow and became a relaxing way to unwind amid the busy month of moving, renovations, and daily responsibilities.

This Month's Quote

“Solar panels don’t just save electricity—they turn sunlight into long-term savings for your home and future.”

Solar panel installation

Late installation, I should have installed it last year...

By the time I finalized the solar installation, the prices of batteries and other components had already increased. Fortunately, the installation itself was completed smoothly within a single day, starting around 9 AM and finishing at approximately 4 PM. The total cost of our 6kW hybrid solar setup with a 16kWh battery system was around ₱290,000.

Based on our average monthly consumption of around 330 kWh and the current electricity rate of about ₱15 per kWh, our electric bill would normally reach roughly ₱4,500 per month. With the current solar setup, I estimate that we would still need to draw a small amount from the grid during consumption spikes, resulting in an estimated remaining bill of around ₱1,000 monthly. That gives us an estimated monthly savings of about ₱3,500 from electricity alone. In addition, since we now rely less on LPG cooking because of increased induction stove usage, we also estimate around ₱1,000 in monthly LPG savings.

Here is my rough ROI computation:
* Monthly electricity savings: ₱3,500
* Estimated LPG savings: ₱1,000
* Total monthly savings: ₱4,500
* Estimated annual savings: ₱54,000
* Opportunity cost at 5% annually: ₱14,500
* Effective annual return: ₱39,500
* Estimated payback period: around 7.3 years

Looking at our current power consumption of roughly 25 kWh per day, our usage has more than doubled from around 11 kWh previously. This increase mainly came from heavier use of air-conditioning, water heaters, induction cooking, and electric water heating appliances. Under our current lifestyle and appliance usage, our monthly electricity expenses could potentially reach around ₱9,000 without solar. At that level of consumption, the estimated payback period of the solar installation could drop closer to around 3 years.

Another important factor is the continuous rise in electricity prices. The rate already increased from around ₱15 to ₱15.50 per kWh this summer alone, and it is likely to continue increasing in the coming years. Because of this, the long-term value and savings potential of the solar setup may become even more beneficial over time. Our solar panels was installed by El'Sol Wealth Phils Engineering Services.

Move to Santolan

House shifting again...

We are shifting from our current apartment in Paranque to Pasig. The new place is better than the apartment in some way. I wouldn't say it is our ideal place or house, but as of the moment this location is ideal based on our circumstance. First the lot and house is not rented, we own the property. The pros is that, we were able to do minor renovations, install solar panels, flexibility in the property structure, near to my side of the family, garbage collection is accessible (compared to the apartment area we used to rent to), low cost no association dues, it is still within the city and alot of things are accessible. The cons are crowdedness, it is a barrangay vicinity thus security is not similar to a gated subdivision, lack of amenities, difficulties in parking due to it being a tight street, current noise is tolerable but who knows if there are events.

Remaining Renovations

Alot of work for fixing and sorting...

This month, we focused on completing several minor fixes and improvements around the house to make the space more functional and comfortable. One of the main updates was finishing the understair wall area, which was prepared and reinforced for TV mounting to maximize space and improve the living room setup. We also worked on small paint touch-ups and fixture corrections in different parts of the house to give the interiors a cleaner and more polished look.

Additional improvements included the installation and repositioning of air-conditioning units to achieve better airflow and cooling efficiency throughout the rooms. We also added and adjusted several water pipe connections to improve water access and support future household needs. In the bathrooms, toilet accessories and essential fixtures were installed to complete the overall setup and improve convenience for daily use.

At the same time, we continued arranging cabinets, storage units, and other furniture pieces to make the house more organized and practical. Although these were mostly minor changes individually, together they helped make the home feel more complete, livable, and better suited for our everyday routine.

Weekends in near by Malls

Philippines is the Mall capital of the world, is a self-proclaimed statement...

SM City Marikina, SM City Masinag, Opus Mall, Ayala Malls Feliz, Robinsons Metro East, Sta. Lucia East Grand Mall, and Eastwood Mall were among the malls we explored this month. We spent time visiting different places around the area because Kat and Jace needed more walking exercises, and mall walking turned out to be a comfortable and convenient option, especially with the air-conditioned environment and spacious walkways.

Each mall had its own atmosphere and selection of shops, which made every visit feel a little different. Some malls were more relaxed and spacious for long walks, while others offered more dining and entertainment choices. We also enjoyed trying different restaurants and food stalls along the way, since these malls offered a decent variety of dining options ranging from quick snacks to full family meals.

One important stop for us was the Medical Depot in Sta. Lucia, where we were able to buy colostomy bags and other medical supplies we needed. Having access to both essential stores and recreational spaces in one trip made these mall visits practical as well as enjoyable for the family.

Chapel of the Archangel

Weekend Church...

Opus Mall and the Chapel of the Archangels have become our new go-to destination for Saturday Mass. The chapel is spacious, peaceful, and fully air-conditioned, making it a comfortable place to attend services even during hot afternoons. One thing we appreciate is the fixed-rate parking, which makes visiting more convenient and less stressful compared to other crowded malls and churches.

After Mass, we usually spend time walking around the mall since the entire area feels open, modern, and relaxing. The mall itself is spacious, with wide hallways and plenty of seating areas that make it pleasant to explore without feeling too crowded. There is also a good variety of restaurants and cafes to choose from, although the food tends to be on the pricier side. Even so, the overall atmosphere, convenience, and comfort make it a nice weekend destination for both worship and family time.

Manwha Reading Sets

Spent sometime reading manwha this month...

Magic Academy’s Genius Blinker. A talented but underestimated student enters a prestigious magic academy while hiding abilities that make him far more dangerous than others realize. Using quick thinking, strategy, and unconventional skills, he survives deadly challenges and political conflicts within the academy. The story focuses on growth, hidden power, and clever combat rather than brute strength alone.

The Max Level Player’s 100th Regression. After repeatedly failing to save humanity, the protagonist regresses for the 100th time with all the knowledge and experience from his previous lives. Determined to change fate, he becomes overwhelmingly efficient at clearing missions and defeating enemies. The manhwa combines survival-game mechanics, regression, and overpowered progression.

The Great Mage Returns After 4000 Years. The greatest mage in history is reborn thousands of years later into the weak body of a bullied student. With his memories and magical knowledge intact, he begins rebuilding his strength while uncovering how the world has changed. The series mixes revenge, magical battles, and the return of a legendary figure.

Limit Breaking Genius Mage. A mage born with limitations refuses to accept his weak status and continuously pushes beyond the boundaries of normal magic. Through relentless experimentation, intelligence, and determination, he develops abilities that surpass traditional standards. The story emphasizes innovation, power growth, and overcoming impossible limits.

Last March was marked by several notable personal and global events. A “blood moon” lunar eclipse was expected, but cloudy skies made it difficult to view clearly. Instead of a dramatic red moon, only brief and faint glimpses appeared through the clouds. The moment still felt atmospheric and mysterious despite the limited visibility.

At the same time, rising tensions in the Iran conflict affected global markets. Oil prices increased due to concerns about supply disruptions in the Middle East. The Philippine stock market became more cautious and moved sideways overall. Energy and transport sectors were pressured, while some remittance-supported companies remained stable. Investor sentiment turned defensive, reflecting uncertainty in the global economy.

On the personal side, Joyce visited a dermatologist for dry and itchy skin at Unihealth Parañaque. Our family also maintained a routine of visiting Ramen Sekai at Santana Grove after church. This has become our usual weekend spot for enjoying ramen together. In addition, Joyce completed her grade school at St. Cyr. We attended both Gratitude Night and her graduation rites to mark the milestone.

This Month's Quote

“A graduation closes one chapter, but it carry all the lessons, memories, and friendships that will help one write an even better story in the future”

Bloody Moon

Lunar eclipse...

Last March, there was supposed to be this “bloody moon” lunar eclipse, but honestly, the sky wasn’t really cooperating. It was cloudy most of the time, so instead of getting that clear, dramatic red moon everyone posts online, it was more like quick glimpses through thin gaps in the clouds. You’d see a faint glow trying to break through, then it would disappear again like the clouds were teasing you.

Still, even with the weather blocking most of the view, you could tell something was happening up there. The sky had that weird dim, heavy feeling, and every now and then the clouds would briefly light up in a reddish tint. It wasn’t the perfect view, but it had its own vibe—more mysterious than spectacular, like the moon was hiding behind a curtain instead of fully showing itself.

Bloody Stocks due to Iran Conflict

War shock hits pse...

This March, when tensions in the Iran conflict started heating up again, it wasn’t just something happening far away—it actually had a ripple effect on global markets, including the Philippines. Oil prices moved up pretty quickly because investors worried about supply disruptions in the Middle East. Since the Philippines is heavily dependent on imported fuel, that immediately raised concerns about higher transportation and electricity costs.

In the local stock market, the mood turned more cautious. The PSE didn’t crash or anything dramatic, but it leaned sideways with more hesitation. Energy-related and transport stocks felt the pressure first because of rising fuel costs, while consumer-related companies also faced uncertainty since higher prices can slow down spending.

Some sectors still held steady, especially companies supported by remittances, since overseas Filipino workers continued sending money home despite global tensions. But overall, investors became more defensive, and foreign money flow wasn’t as aggressive. So this March, it wasn’t really about a big market shock—it was more of a cautious environment where global tensions quietly made everything a bit more careful and uncertain.

Joyce visit to Dermatologist

Summer skin issues...

Joyce had dry skin accompanied by some itching, which concerned us. We decided to have her checked by a dermatologist to make sure it wasn’t anything serious. Unihealth paranaque.

Ramen Sekai

Our weekend ramen go to...

My daughter loves ramen, so after church we often drop by Santana Grove to eat at a ramen restaurant there. Ramen Sekai Santana Groove Paranaque.

Joyce Gratitude and Graduation

Joyce completed her course in St Cyr...

Joyce completed her grade school at St. Cyr, where we took part in both Gratitude Night and the graduation rites.

This month was a mix of learning, reflection, and different life updates across trading, personal projects, and entertainment. In trading, I realized I need to stop buying the initial dip and avoid catching falling knives, especially after mistakes with VREIT and PREIT. I also learned that selling OGP too early and setting an early stop-loss were both decisions driven more by emotion than strategy. The main lesson is that patience and confirmation matter more than reacting quickly to price drops.

On the creative side, I’ve been thinking about restarting and improving Kosilog, a web comics project that has been underutilized for a long time. Even though it started as an old idea with Ruel, I haven’t been able to consistently execute or contribute to it, unlike other projects that at least showed small progress. I also had a HELE woodworking project which was fun but expensive, and it gave me real-world insights into construction materials around Santolan.

For family and lifestyle, we decided to enroll Joyce in a public school so she can experience a more diverse environment, while also supporting her through extra activities like judo or taekwondo. We also had a simple Valentines-style weekend that felt more like a regular mall trip, where I’m still getting used to driving and traveling longer distances.

For entertainment, I’ve been watching several K-dramas like Undercover High School, No Gain No Love, and The Art of Negotiation, each showing different styles from action-comedy to romance and serious business strategy. I’ve also been reading manga and webtoons like Villager Wants to Save the Villainess No Matter What and The Extra’s Academy Survival Guide, which both focus on characters trying to change fate in different ways. Lastly, there are also market concerns like SCC and DMCI showing weakness due to uncertainty despite their advantages. Overall, the month felt like a mix of lessons in patience, creativity, family decisions, and entertainment exploration.

This Month's Quote

A lot of quotes this time made me realize that I need to relearn not to buy the initial dip or try to catch a falling knife. Buying VREIT and PREIT meant investing in companies with weak fundamentals. Selling OGP too early was driven by taking profits too soon, and I also made the wrong decision by triggering an early stop-loss on OGP.

“Never catch a falling knife — let the market find the floor before you step in.”
“The first red day is a warning, not an invitation.”
“Patience buys better entries than panic buys dips.”
“A falling stock is not a bargain until it stops falling.”
“Don’t buy the fall — wait for the landing.”
“First drop is risk; confirmed support is opportunity.”
“Let the knife hit the ground before you pick it up.”
“Smart traders don’t chase the first dip; they wait for proof of stability.”
“Buying early in a fall is guessing; waiting for confirmation is strategy.”
“The market rewards patience more than bravery.”

Kosilog Replaning

Small improvements for the filipino themed light novels...

The web comics website has been running but underutilized for quite some time. kosilog.com was originally inspired by an old idea with Ruel, and I’ve always wanted to pursue it in different forms. However, I was never able to execute and maintain it properly. Part of that may have been due to other commitments, but in the end, I still failed to contribute even small pieces consistently.

Joyce wood working project

Joyce wood work project...

This woodworking project for HELE was both fun and expensive at the same time. It also gave me some insights into construction materials and hardware items available in Santolan.

Public school enrolment

Joyce going for public school...

We decided to enroll Joyce in a public school so she could experience a more diverse environment, similar to what her cousins experienced. To help address some of the gaps commonly associated with public schools, we also plan to involve her in extracurricular activities such as contact sports like judo or taekwondo. Santolan High school.

Netflix Kdrama: Undercover Ms Hong, No Tail to Tell and The Art of Sarah

Ongoing Kdramas this month...

These are the kdramas we have been watching this month. Undercover High School is a really fun kdrama because it has action and comedy at the same time. The main character goes undercover in a school and tries to act like a normal student even though he is actually on a secret mission. I liked how he got into funny situations while also fighting bad guys and solving problems.

No Gain No Love is about romance and people pretending in relationships for different reasons. At first it feels funny and awkward, but later the characters start caring about each other for real. I think the drama is nice because it shows how people can slowly change their feelings and become closer over time.

The Art of Negotiation is more serious but still interesting because it is about smart people making deals and solving business problems. The characters try to outthink each other, and sometimes it feels like a battle but with words instead of fighting. I liked it because it showed that being calm and smart can also be very powerful.

Manga: Villager Wants to Save the Villainess No Matter What

Villager Wants to Save the Villainess No Matter What is about a regular villager trying his best to save the villainess from her bad ending and change her fate...

The manga is about a normal villager guy who really wants to save the villainess before bad things happen to her. Even though everyone thinks she is supposed to end up as the bad person, he keeps trying to change her future. The story has magic, romance, and a lot of moments where the characters try to fight against fate and make their own choices. mangadex: Villager Wants to Save the Villainess No Matter What.

Webtoon: The Extra’s Academy Survival Guide

Isekai'd to a story game webtoon...

Reading the Extra’s Academy Survival Guide, I thought it was really easy going due to the main character not beingr overpowered but still survives using smart decisions. I liked how he tries to avoid trouble, but trouble always finds him anyway. The academy setting is fun because there are magic classes, strong students, and secret dangers everywhere. Sometimes the fights are intense, but the funny moments make the story more enjoyable. I also think the main character is relatable because he just wants to live peacefully and not die. The art is awesome, especially during the action scenes and magic attacks. Some characters seemed scary at first, but later they became more interesting. I liked seeing how the main character slowly gains respect from other people. The story also has mysteries that made me want to keep reading more chapters. Overall, I think it is a very fun webtoon with smart strategies, cool fights, and great characters. The extras academy survival guide.

Valentines Day

Spent 2026 valentines with family...

It wasn’t really a special celebration, more like our usual weekend mall trip and dining. I’m still getting used to driving, and Kat still hesitates when it comes to traveling too far from home. We just had a simple but decent meal, took a short walk around the mall, and spent some time playing Timezone’s new game platform, Colorgrid.

Semirara and DMCI stock crash

Uncertainty in the SCC and DMCI stock...

SCC Report summary just mentioned some of the bidding challenges and the advantages of the current management.

Despite SCC advantages, lingering uncertainties pushed the stock price down.

The year 2025 felt like a period of simply holding things together, where most of my energy went into managing responsibilities rather than moving forward. I admit that I procrastinated at times and became too comfortable staying within familiar routines. As 2026 begins, I’m preparing for significant changes — moving to a new home, enrolling Joyce (and possibly Jace) in school, and investing in solar panels as a step toward long-term stability. I feel hopeful yet slightly nervous, knowing these transitions will shape our family’s future in meaningful ways. My dental extractions were more emotionally challenging than physically painful, especially during the first night of recovery, reminding me of the importance of patience and self-care. Watching different Netflix shows gave me moments of reflection, comfort, and escape, each one resonating with different parts of my thoughts and experiences. The novels and manwha I read became a relaxing space where I could enjoy stories of growth, strength, humor, and optimism. Joyce’s time away from gadgets unexpectedly turned into a meaningful period of creativity, and seeing her express herself through art made me incredibly proud. Fixing the myFirst Fone R1 felt like a small but practical choice — valuing repair and resourcefulness instead of immediately replacing something. Overall, this chapter of life feels like a transition filled with lessons, quiet growth, and renewed hope for what lies ahead.

This Month's Quote

Planning sets the direction; replanning keeps you on the path...

New Year 2026 New Hope

Movement and project year...

Looking back at 2025, most of my time and energy went into settling existing challenges and responsibilities. It was a year focused more on holding things together than starting something new. Many of the projects I had hoped to begin didn’t move forward as planned, which was frustrating at times, but also taught me patience and acceptance.

This year, there are several important changes that I need to move forward with. These include transferring to a new house, enrolling Joyce in school, possibly enrolling Jace as well, and adjusting to life in a new home. I’m also planning the installation of a solar panel system, which feels like an investment not just in our home, but in our future.

Even though 2025 didn’t unfold the way I imagined, I know it played a role in preparing me for what comes next. I’m hopeful, a little nervous, and quietly excited about the changes ahead. As 2026 begins, I’m choosing to believe that this year will bring growth, stability, and new opportunities for our family.

Dental Extractions

Bye bye wisdom tooth...

All of my third molars were removed, along with two second molars on my lower jaw. The procedure itself wasn’t as painful as I expected—the only part that really hurt was the anesthesia injection. At the time, it felt manageable and straightforward.

The real challenge came after the surgery. Having six teeth removed caused significant swelling, and my entire face felt sore and tight. The first night was especially difficult. I wasn’t able to eat a proper meal before the operation, and afterward, eating felt almost impossible. Hunger, discomfort, and exhaustion all came together, making that first night the hardest part of the experience.Recovery took about one to two weeks. During that time, I had to be very careful, patient, and consistent with aftercare. Slowly, the swelling went down, and day by day I started to feel more like myself again. By the second week, I was much more comfortable and able to return to normal activities.

Now, the main difference I notice is the deep socket left on the wisdom tooth side. Because of this, I need to be extra careful with oral hygiene—making sure to gargle properly and flush the socket regularly to prevent food from getting trapped. It’s a small adjustment, but an important one to avoid complications and support full healing.

Netflix Series

Different netflix shows for this month...

One Hit Wonder feels like a quiet reminder that dreams don’t always disappear—they just wait. The show hits hardest in its portrayal of missed chances and the fear of trying again after life has already moved on. Watching it made me reflect on goals I once set aside, convincing myself it was “too late.” It’s not loud or dramatic, but it lingers, like an old song that suddenly brings back memories you didn’t realize you still carried.

Emily in Paris is pure escapism—colorful, unrealistic, and oddly comforting. While it doesn’t pretend to be grounded in reality, it shines in showing confidence without apology. Emily stumbles constantly, yet never lets embarrassment stop her from showing up again. Watching it feels like a reminder that it’s okay to be new, messy, and imperfect while still chasing what excites you.

Probono is a grounded and quietly powerful drama that focuses on justice beyond prestige or profit. The cases feel real, and the moral weight behind each decision sticks with you. It made me reflect on how fairness often depends on who has access and who doesn’t, and how choosing to help others is rarely easy or celebrated—but still deeply necessary.

Alchemy of Souls pulls you into a beautifully built fantasy world, but what keeps you invested is its emotional depth. Beneath the magic and power struggles is a story about identity, growth, and choosing love despite pain and loss. The characters’ journeys remind us that true strength isn’t just about power—it’s about loyalty, sacrifice, and the people we choose to protect.

Novels and Manwha

Talent-Swallowing Magician is pure power fantasy done right. What I enjoyed most is how growth feels earned—every stolen talent comes with effort, danger, and strategy. Instead of mindless domination, the story focuses on learning, adapting, and surviving in a ruthless magical world. It scratches that satisfying itch of watching someone rise from weakness to dominance while still staying cautious and calculated.

Player Returned 10,000 Years Later. This series leans heavily into overwhelming strength, but that’s exactly its charm. Player Returned 10,000 Years Later is fun because it doesn’t pretend to be subtle—the main character is terrifyingly powerful, yet endlessly entertaining. What surprised me is the humor mixed with brutality, making the story feel less dark and more unapologetically fun. It’s the kind of read where you relax and enjoy the chaos without overthinking it.

Easygoing Territory Defense by the Optimistic Lord feels like a genuinely comforting break from the usual dark and heavy fantasy stories. Instead of relying on constant despair, tragedy, or brutality, it leans into optimism, steady leadership, and slow but meaningful progress. There’s something unexpectedly refreshing about watching a kind, hopeful ruler develop his territory through trust, cooperation, and smart, practical decisions rather than fear or force. What I enjoyed most is how the story quietly reminds you that strength doesn’t always come from domination or overwhelming power—sometimes it comes from believing that things can get better and putting in the work to make that happen. If you enjoy isekai stories that focus on construction, domain building, and long-term growth, this novel is definitely worth checking out. I personally discovered it through its recent anime adaptation, which sparked my curiosity enough to start reading the novel afterward. While the main character is slightly overpowered—especially when it comes to construction skills and equipment—it never feels disruptive. Instead, it supports the core theme of building, improving, and protecting a peaceful territory. Overall, it’s a relaxing, feel-good series that rewards patience and optimism rather than constant conflict.

Joyce Artwork

No gadget only artwork...

Joyce was restricted from using gadgets for a few weeks due to low grades. While it was a difficult adjustment for her at first, that time away from screens turned into something unexpectedly meaningful. With fewer distractions, she spent more time drawing and creating, and these artworks are what she made during that period. Seeing her express herself through art during that time reminded me that challenges can sometimes open the door to growth in unexpected ways. What started as a consequence became a space for creativity, focus, and quiet self-expression—and I’m really proud of what she accomplished.

Joyce Watch Battery Replacement

The myFirst Fone R1 stopped working and turned out to need a battery replacement. I decided to open the watch myself to check what kind of battery it uses and see if a compatible replacement was possible. After some searching, I found that the Finow X5 Battery 553535 appears to be a match.

I hesitated at first because the replacement battery costs around ₱700, and I wasn’t sure if it would be practical to spend that much on an older device. However, when I compared it to the price of a brand-new unit—which is around ₱9,000—it became clear that replacing the battery makes far more sense. As long as the watch itself is still in good condition, a battery replacement feels like a reasonable and cost-effective solution rather than immediately buying a new one.