2023 -> 2024

2023 was the year that things were getting better. It had to be better than the past 2-3 COVID-19 pandemic-impacted years. It just had to be.

With travel restrictions being fully lifted and companies encouraging their teams to start going to the office, it was finally time to start things moving.

2023 saw us celebrating Mom’s 79th birthday in Siem Reap, Cambodia; my brother Estong’s 50th birthday in Tokyo, Japan; my birthday in LA, USA; and short trips to Manila and Davao, both for work and leisure.

2023 had me experiencing a lot of firsts: 1st NBA game at the Crypto Arena, 1st time to try golf (albeit only at a driving range), 1st time to be inside a warship and a submarine, and 1st time to touch an actual moon rock at the Houston Space Center.

Last year was also the year I said goodbye to my dearest and sweetest dog, Olive. And I still miss her so much.

Bonding over food has always been the norm, be it the college barkada, a former project team, or a new project team. It was good to meet, catch up, and get acquainted with the new and old.

and there were frequent trips to the still-starting farm.

and some significant milestones that just had to be celebrated with a bang.

and work was still hectic , difficult but fun!

but most of all, it was all about family.

so 2023, I am grateful. And with 2024 upon us, I look forward to making more memories and taking on opportunities that challenge me to be more resolute about doing things better, staying in the positive light, and not minding the naysayers. At the end of it all, it is about what I can do that will impact other people’s lives for the better.