- Elvyn’s Eyes. This story is the proof of my childhood dream of having my own book.
- ‘LuzViMinda’ Vacation. I never imagined that I would be traveling to different places from the Philippines in three weeks with my loved ones.
- Canyoneering and Sand Boarding. I’m not a fan of heights, especially when I need into drop to water, but when I went to Kawasan Falls to experience Canyoneering; I threw away my fear for eight foot jump. Sandboarding at Ilocos Norte was fun that next time I will have the courage to stand up on the board and just let my face smack on the sand.
- Papa’s Homecoming. It’s been 12 years since my father went home from the USA. Even though, he only stayed here for two weeks, I was glad that he finally met and played with his grandchildren.
- Apple’s First Homecoming. My sister waited for four years before going back to the Philippines. It was short but I totally enjoyed having her at home.
- Book launch. Not in a million dreams that I thought of attending this event as being one of the people who is signing a book. A former fan being a true writer.
- ‘Surreal’. To finish a novel was a massive accomplishment, but seeing it on the wide screen before it was out as a self-published book was fantastic.
- TBC Publications. Without this amazing organization, my stories would be stuck on my computer files. You know how you change my life, TBC team!
- Upcoming Reedz Issue. My short story for Psicom Publishing Reedz passed and one of these days, it will be out in the Philippines. Oh my gosh, my heart!
- Meeting my Inspirations. This had been a great year for me to meet and greet my Idols in writing. I was blessed to hangout with Filipino authors: Noringai, Ines Bautista-Yao (one of my favorite Filipino romance writers!), Mina Esguerra, Yeyet Soriano, Melai Quilla, pilosopotasya (I’m so proud of this lady!), akane, xiomai and Aivan Vivero.
- Local Celebrities. Who had thought that I would watch Bituing Walang Ningning musical and had a photo with Epi Quizon, Antonette Taus, Mark Bautista, Ronnie Liang and Monica Cuenco after the show? That was a magnificent night! A small chat with Alex Gonzaga during her book signing was incredible! We were like old friends!
- International Book Review Invite. You couldn’t say no to an email from St. Martin’s Press. Third time is a charm!
- Meeting New Friends, Seeing Old Faces. Gaining new friends with few attended events this year was good and catching up with former classmates and long time buddies was indeed nice.
- US Visa Rejection. Instead of taking it negatively, Embassy’s personel rejection with my application strengthens my faith that someday I will be back to San Francisco. Try and try!
- Silent Treatment. You taught me to be tougher and wiser. I understood perfectly why it happened.
- A1 Comeback Concert and Le Grand Cirque. After four years of watching A1 perform and watching them live again was nostalgic. I loved them and they would always be my favorite boy band. Le Grand Cirque acrobats were awe-inspiring because their craft was perfected and they worked for it very hard. I couldn’t help by cry after their heart stopping show.
- Movie Bucket List and Advanced Screening. This year, I only saw noticeable films like Batman vs Superman, Suicide Squad, Dr. Strange, Fantastic Beast and Where to Find Them, Moana and Bridget Jones’ Baby and it was awesome! Cheers!
- Goodreads Challenge. It motivated me to read a lot of books and before the year ends, I surpassed the 40 Book Challenges that I gave to myself. Congratulations bookworm!
- Malas and His Untold Story. First time to write a children’s short story and though it was not published, I will read The Luckiest Day of Malas to my future children.
- No Electric Bill Payment. For two months, you have made me the happiest customer Meralco! Free of charge!
- Being Sick was a Wake Up Call. I had fever earlier this year and that freaked me out. I pushed myself too much and I promised after getting back in shape, I would take good care of my health.
- Going Back to Teaching. Seeing your students again after two years and being back to the greatest family, I couldn’t ask for more. Accepting me with open arms was heartwarming.
- Motivating Others. It was music to my ears and song in my heart when you touched peoples’ life by sharing your knowledge and even helping them in small ways.
- No Late Night Out. Less staying out means long time to write a story, do blog and having part time work.
- Learning to Let Go. There are things that I couldn’t control. Little by little, step by step, I learned to give them up.
- Simple Message, Big Impact. Receiving email from readers means a lot and immediately put a smile on my face.
- Helpful Workshops. I attended writing and make-up workshops and blogger’s anniversary that I acquired new learning and tell it to others.
2016 was my Dream Come True Year and this coming 2017 is my Goal Year (Make It Happen Year). I’m ready for you 2017, bring it on Fire Rooster!