Hello, hello, hello to my new readers! 💛
Thank you so much for being here. Whether you’ve just stumbled upon this space or have been quietly following for a while, I’m truly grateful you’re part of this beautiful mess I call life. If you’ve noticed it’s been a little quiet on my end—almost two weeks without a post—it’s because life recently swept me into one of those whirlwind seasons. The kind filled with paperwork, deadlines, hope, and just enough chaos to remind you that growth often requires discomfort.

The past couple of weeks have been especially meaningful as I’ve been deep in the process of preparing documents for my overseas application. It’s been a mix of exhaustion and excitement, and though it’s stretched me in ways I didn’t expect, I’m finally resurfacing—with updates, stories, and lessons tucked into every moment. I’m back, and I’ve missed this space more than I thought I would.

I spent four nights and five days in Makati, Manila, staying at a place I’d now happily call a pocket of peace—One Pacific Place Residences, tucked along H.V. Dela Costa. It’s a cozy, clean, and minimalist hotel that gave me a comforting little base in the heart of the city. Just a short walk to Trafalgar Plaza and within reach of all things buzzing and vibrant, it was exactly the environment I needed—quiet enough to reflect, alive enough to feel connected. Although the main reason for this trip was to process paperwork (and yes, there was a lot of it), it ended up becoming something much more—a sacred pause. A window of grace. I honestly believe God was present in every step, every detour, and every stranger who offered kindness at just the right time. When I say His grace never fails, I mean it—deeply and truly.

And though I’ve been to Manila before, this was the first time I allowed myself to really walk the streets of Makati and BGC. My cousin, ever the wise voice in my life, lovingly teased me for staying indoors too much. “You’re in the city—go see it!” she said. So I took her advice. I let the streets lead me. I wandered past glowing lights, paused to admire murals tucked between buildings, and felt the energy of a city that pulses with art, ambition, and something intangible—life in motion. My feet may still be aching from those long walks, but my heart? Full. Overwhelmingly full.

This little journey reminded me that even when life feels full of checklists and obligations, there is always room for discovery—for choosing joy amidst the responsibility. And that’s exactly what this trip gave me: a taste of both. Productivity and pause. Responsibility and renewal. Rest and revelation.

So, if you’re still reading this, thank you. And stay close—because in my next post, I’ll be taking you along to the spots I visited during my stay. Think pastel sunsets, city walks, and coffee with a view—moments that made me feel like I was living in a film, even if only for a little while.

Until then,
With love and gratitude,
Anj 💛