Yep, it’s that time of year. So before we change calendars (OK, we’ve already actually changed some), it’s only fitting to look back at the past 12 months that have passed. And going over all the photos and memories that were made in 2015, I could say that it has been a great year. Of course, we’ve had our down moments, some deeper and sadder than others, but taking stock of it all, it has been a fairly positive one. Here are just some of the highlights of my year.
Boracay with the Barkada (Feb)
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I finally got to experience Boracay for myself and while the beach experience was quite OK, it was the presence of long-time friends that truly made that experience special. Reconnecting with my pals from college after nearly a decade was an awesome experience and also a challenge to keep those connections alive for years to come. Here’s to more reunions and trips!
Baguio with the Family (May)
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I’ve only been to the summer capital of the Philippines once, and that was just for a few hours even. Finally getting to see more of Baguio was definitely good. Again, not exactly a big deal, especially for those who regularly make trips there, but being with the family, especially to celebrate Mothers’ Day and Ate’s birthday added a special flavor to the experience. Plus, the cool (though not exactly cold) weather does wonders for one’s mood.
Dental Operation (Sep)
Not everything was good however. I had to celebrate my birthday (or a bit past it) with an aching tooth. Which resulted in a root canal. Which resulted into something even worse. That said, I’m still thankful it happened before it really got worse. Lesson learned. I hope.
Celebrating Mama’s Senior Citizenship in Marinduque (Oct)
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Here in the Philippines, reaching 60 years of age is a big thing. You are henceforth legally considered a senior citizenship and all the benefits that brings. And, of course, reaching that age is no joking matter either. Especially when you’re my mom. So a special occasion deserves a special celebration. Mom organized a trip with her whole office division to Marinduque. It’s all our first time there and it’s my first trip on a RORO ship to boot. The beach was clean and peaceful and was a much welcome break from the hustle and bustle of the city.
JAPAN! (Nov)
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I’d have to say, however, that the biggest highlight of this year would be our trip to Japan. It was a dream come true! It almost didn’t happen but it did. And not a single regret there. OK, maybe I do regret not spending more time there, but there’s always a next time. And next time I’m definitely staying longer. There’s so much to see and do in Japan that even the 15 days that we could have spent there won’t be enough.
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As if going to Japan weren’t special enough, it was made even more so by meeting my awesome boss and his equally awesome family. Definitely an experience worth cherishing and repeating. So until next time, ja mata!
The Swag!
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Looking back, I’ve realized I’ve bought a lot of stuff. And by a lot, I do mean A LOT. I probably should have held back on some of those, but there are definitely a few that I have no regrets purchasing. Getting the Microsoft Surface Pro 3 was definitely the biggest and best purchase I made this year. The Surface Pro 4 is nice and all, but only if you don’t have this one yet. And, as far as a Linux user is concerned, it might still be a bit too raw. Everything about it is almost perfect for me. Sure there are some flaws and running Linux on it isn’t a full and perfect experience, but all in all it was great.
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Then I got the Samsung Galaxy Note 5 last month, finally a more or less worthy upgrade from my Note 3. To some extent, it’s like a familiar friend, just better. But the hardware improvements are definitely worth every penny. Here’s to hoping Samsung actually recovers and starts innovating again.
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And how can I forget the newest member of our family? Mom calls him “Baby 8”, which is probably an apt nickname too.
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Looking forward to 2016
2015 was definitely a blast. It might be asking too much for 2016 to be the same or even better, but I’m definitely hoping it won’t be worse. I do look forward to it as an exciting, and also a bit scary, adventure. But no matter how the next 12 months will turn out, with family and friends by my side, I think I can overcome them all.
Cheers!