If I could wrap 2024 into a single theme, it would be “firsts.” This was the year of stepping outside my comfort zone, hopping on flights (both international and local), meeting incredible people, and experiencing new places—some planned, some spontaneous, but all unforgettable.
The year kicked off with a major milestone—my first international flight to Taiwan to attend WordCamp Asia 2024. It was more than just a trip; it was a turning point. There’s something about boarding an international flight for the first time that makes you feel like you’ve unlocked a new level in life. Meeting fellow WordPress enthusiasts, learning from industry experts, and simply soaking in the experience—it all felt surreal.
This year, I also got my first car—a moment that felt both liberating and slightly intimidating. The freedom of the open road? Amazing. The responsibilities that come with it? A whole new level of adulting. But I embraced it fully, hitting the road for countless trips and road adventures.
One of the most special ones? April—my anniversary trip with my boyfriend to Cebu. Our first local flight together made it even more memorable. There’s something about traveling with someone you love—it’s like discovering a new side of them in every new place.
For my birthday, I celebrated with Katya and Micko, with my plus one, Nanay, making it extra special. We went to Calatagan, Batangas, and later, I shared a meaningful trip to Monte Maria with Ate Chi, Nanay, and Francine. These weren’t just trips; they were moments filled with laughter, heartfelt conversations, and a reminder of how grateful I am for the people in my life.
Then came Baguio in May, another adventure that added to the list of beautiful places I got to experience.
In July, I celebrated milestones for others, too—attending the wedding of my good friend Diana and my baby’s birthday. It was a heartwarming reminder that time moves fast, and every celebration is a moment worth cherishing.
August brought WordCamp Cebu, an event that had me excited to connect with the community again. But soon after, typhoid fever hit me hard, forcing me to miss the Davao WordPress meetup, where I was supposed to speak. It was frustrating—when you’re used to always being on the go, slowing down isn’t easy.
But the moment I recovered, I jumped back into adventure mode. Cagayan de Oro Meetup? Check. Camiguin Island with Ate Jevi, Harcy, Dan, and Harcy’s friend? Check. We explored, laughed, and made memories that I wouldn’t trade for anything.
Then came Bukidnon with Jevi and Harcy, another beautiful trip that reminded me that no matter how busy life gets, these breaks—these escapes into new places—are what keep us grounded.
After all the travels, work took over again. But it wasn’t all just deadlines and responsibilities. There were meetups, moments of connection, and the excitement of planning for the future—including WordCamp Asia 2025.
December wrapped up with a well-deserved Christmas break and a Tagaytay trip with the Manila team. The perfect way to close out a year that was filled with firsts, lessons, unexpected detours, and beautiful memories.
