Thursday, September 26, 2024

6 Tips When Using Your Credit Card to Purchase from Foreign Online Shops

Now more than ever, it’s easier for consumers based in the Philippines to buy stuff from foreign shops using their credit cards and other payment gateways. The internet, combined with more efficient and tech-driven logistics systems, has elevated the level of convenience that everyday credit card users can enjoy while accessing a wide array of products that might not be available locally.


But are you truly maximizing the benefits of using your credit cards for online shopping? Perhaps there are still ways to make this process more efficient while ensuring that you get the most bang for your buck. To that end, here’s a list of tips that you can use to get better value for your money when shopping online:

Tip 1 - Choose the Right Credit Card.

First, you’ll need to use the right credit card when purchasing goods from foreign online shops. A credit card with low or no foreign transaction fees, for instance, can save you a significant amount of money. These fees are typically charged by banks for converting your peso payments into the foreign currency of the seller. For instance, if your card charges a 3% foreign transaction fee, a USD 100 purchase will cost you an extra USD 3.

After scrutinizing the foreign transaction fees, examine the rewards or cashback that your credit cards offer on international purchases. Some cards might give you 2% cashback on all purchases made in a foreign currency. This means that for every USD 100 you spend, you get USD 2 back, effectively reducing the cost of your purchase.

Cards that offer better rates can provide you with the best benefits for international spending. It would be good for your credit card program to afford you some perks for shopping you can already expect to do both locally and internationally. One awesome contender that’s available today is the Landers Cashback Everywhere Credit Card by Maya. On top of up to 5% cashback that you get from purchasing in Landers Superstore and 2% cashback you receive whenever you dine out, you’re also entitled to a 1% cashback for every other type of transaction—which means you can get even more value from this card when you shop from a foreign store online.

It’s also important to pay attention to the exchange rate used by your credit card, as this can affect the final amount you pay. Some cards offer more favorable rates than others. Research and compare the currency conversion rates offered by different credit cards to ensure you're really getting the best deal.

Tip 2 - Monitor Exchange Rates

That said, take note that exchange rates fluctuate. This means that you need to time your international purchase when rates are better for you so that you can save money. If you notice that the exchange rate for USD to PHP is more favorable on a particular day, for example, it might be a good time to buy that item you've been eyeing.

To make this task easier, use online tools and apps that provide real-time exchange rate information. They can help you compare the rates offered by different credit cards and decide which one to use for your purchase. Knowing the current exchange rate also allows you to set a budget for online shopping and avoid overspending.

Tip 3 - Know the Ins and Outs of Your Card’s Benefits

Many credit cards offer purchase protection, a feature that can cover you if an item you buy is damaged or stolen within a certain period. If you buy a gadget from an overseas store and it gets damaged during shipping, your credit card’s purchase protection policy may reimburse you for the cost of the item, for one. Check the terms and conditions of the credit card that you want to use to pay for your foreign purchases to understand the coverage and how to file a claim if needed.

In addition, some credit cards can also extend the manufacturer’s warranty on items you purchase. Let’s say that you are planning to buy an electronic device with a one-year warranty. In this scenario, your credit card might extend it to two years, which will save you money on repairs or replacements. However, do make sure to register your purchases and keep all receipts and warranty information for easy reference or reimbursements.

Tip 4 - Secure Your Transactions

No matter who you are transacting with, be it a local or foreign store, it’s a must to ensure that you’re holding your transactions on a secure platform. Make it a point to enable two-factor authentication (2FA) for your online purchases. This adds an extra layer of protection to your purchases and works by requiring a second form of verification, such as a code sent to your phone, in addition to your password. Activating 2FA makes it harder for unauthorized users to make purchases with your card.

Also, check out if your credit card provider offers the use of virtual credit cards. If you can use these temporary numbers instead of your actual card details, you’ll be able to get extra protection against potential fraud. In case the virtual number is compromised, you can have peace of mind knowing that your real credit card information remains safe.

Still, regularly review your credit card statements to spot any unauthorized transactions as quickly as possible. If you notice any suspicious activity, report it to your credit card issuer immediately. The good news is that most providers offer zero liability protection, which means you won’t be held responsible for fraudulent charges if you report them promptly.

Tip 5 - Look for Deals and Discounts

Make sure to look for promo codes and coupons that can reduce the price of your purchase. A number of websites and browser extensions can help you find valid discount codes for various foreign online stores.

Also consider joining the loyalty programs of the online shops you frequently buy from. These programs often offer exclusive discounts, early access to sales, and points that can be redeemed for future purchases. Participating in these programs can help you get better deals and stretch your budget for foreign goods even further.

Tip 6 - Learn Your Card’s Return Policies and Fees

Lastly, make sure you carefully read the return policies of the foreign online shop you’re buying from. Knowing the conditions under which you can return an item, as well as any associated costs, can save you from potential headaches.

Some stores may offer free returns, while others might require you to cover return shipping costs. You should also be aware of the costs associated with returning items internationally, as these can be quite high. If you need to return an item, consider using a shipping service that offers tracking and insurance to ensure that your package reaches its destination safely.


Tips like the ones mentioned above can make your online international shopping experience more rewarding and secure overall. Be a smart consumer and maximize the benefits afforded by your credit card while minimizing the costs of shopping in foreign online stores and getting the most value out of your much-awaited purchases.


*Photo by Vitaly Gariev on Unsplash
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Monday, September 23, 2024

The Ultimate Guide to Shapellx Shapewear Dresses: From Size to Styling

So I became a woman in the late 1990s, when everyone was stick thin because the unforgiving trends were slip dresses, crop tops, cycling shorts, and bodycon dresses. (If you needed to wear the forgiving trends, there was grunge and mom jeans.) Thankfully, with the cyclical nature of fashion, this decade's take on those styles is a lot better. Yep, any body can wear them! But if you - like me - want to still look shapely and not like a bursting sausage in these trends, then you rely on shapewear. I have a few of those in my arsenal. And my latest discovery is the shapewear dress. This guide will help you find the ideal shapewear dress, grasp sizing, and master styling, whether your collection is extensive or just starting with shapewear.

The shapewear dress has changed women's wardrobes by combining the benefits of body contouring with the grace of modern dresses. Apart from assisting you in maintaining a slim shape, shapewear dresses, like the ones from Shapellx, are made to highlight your style with every dress.


Why Choose a Shapewear Dress?
Shapewear dresses are your secret weapon for a flawless, contoured silhouette, not only another item of apparel. These dresses are made with integrated shapewear meant for frequent issue areas, including the waist, hips, and thighs, enhancing your appearance without sacrificing comfort.


Unlike conventional shapewear, these dresses combine fashion with utility so you may look and feel your best at any event—from a day at work to a special occasion.


Top Shapellx Shapewear Dresses to Boost Your Style

Shapellx is a range of gorgeous shapewear dresses that look great and have the desired body-contouring effects. Here is a more detailed look at some of our best selections, all meant to inspire your confidence and accentuate your style.

Cozy Ribbed Shoulder Cut-Out Shaping Dress

The perfect mix of comfort and elegant design is the Cozy Ribbed Shoulder Cut-Out Shaping Dress. Perfect for casual events or a night out, this dress has a distinctive shoulder cut-out that lends a modern twist. While the built-in shaping layer smooths your silhouette to create a sleek, sculpted appearance, the ribbed fabric clings to your curves.

Styling Tip: For an edgy style, pair this dress with ankle boots and a leather jacket; dress it up with heels and bold jewelry for a more glitzy look. Apart from adding a little attitude, the cut-out feature makes this an ideal piece for transitional seasons.


Lace Glamour Geometric Bodycon Dress

The Lace Glamour Geometric Bodycon Dress is your first choice for a more elegant one. Combining delicate lace with a geometric pattern, this bodycon dress presents a rich and unique look. The dress keeps you comfortable by including built-in tummy control, producing a sleek, hourglass shape.

Why We Love It: Perfect for special events like date evenings or gatherings, the delicate lace trimming lends a little elegance. Its precise shaping areas help to highlight your natural contours, enabling confident movement.


Figure Contour Midi Shaping Dress

A masterpiece of design and utility is the Figure Contour Midi Shaping Dress. This midi dress has a modest shape to accentuate your figure without feeling constrictive. Its neat lines and pleasing fit are ideal for evening parties or business situations.

How to Wear It: For an office-ready outfit, style this dress with classic shoes and a fitted blazer; dress it up with statement jewellery and heels for a more sophisticated look. The built-in shaping tool guarantees you look neat and put together whether the situation suits you.


Knowing Shapewear Dress Sizes: How to Get Your Perfect Fit

Ensuring your shapewear apparel offers the support and comfort you require depends on finding the correct size. Petite to plus size, Shapellx has a range of sizes to fit various body types. Consult the size chart on their website always to identify your ideal fit. To find your size, precisely measure your hips, waist, and bust, then compare your dimensions to the chart.


Pro Tip: Consider the fit you want if you fall between sizes. Choose the smaller size for a more compact feel; the larger size will fit more loosely.

Shapellx shapewear dresses empower and confide you in your skin, not only about appearance. Our shapewear dresses meet every demand, from the ideal fit to adaptable designs and unmatched comfort. It has the ideal shapewear dress for you whether your event is unique or you just want to improve your everyday look. Explore our full collection and discover the transformative power of shapewear dresses or butt lifting shapewear today.

*I got the photos from Shapellx, with their permission.
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Saturday, September 07, 2024

Book Review: Mama, Interrupted by Elaine Natividad Reyes


I'm excited to share with you this sweet little book, Mama, Interrupted by Elaine Natividad Reyes. To my dear Loyal Readers, Elaine should be familiar to you because she and I used to be the editors of OK! magazine. She's worked since then as features editor, beauty editor, and freelance writer. 

And now she's added author to that list! I'm so proud of Elaine's new book and I'll tell you why today.


Look at this page from her book (beautifully drawn by Eleanor Bautista). This is how it starts. Elaine lays out the situation by describing the day of a typical mom. I relate to it a lot because that's me every single day. She was describing me! Many women are busy working on something and relying on coffee (or sugar or bone broth) to get them through their day. 

Now, check out the entire page below. If this was an activity sheet for kids, the instructions would be, "Find the object that doesn't belong." (I encircled it haha) For moms like Elaine and me, our desks and minds and schedules revolve around our children. And we try to make everything else - husband, chores, work, friends - fit in. 


Every mom is a working mom, that's what I always say. Doesn't matter if you're working from home or the office, if you're a housewife or the mom everyone at church/school/neighborhood counts on. If you're a mom, your hands are full. More full than anyone's hands. More full than anyone's heart, too. And I guess that's what makes moms such amazing people. Distracted, stressed out, exhausted, sleepless, yes. But amazing nevertheless.

Elaine writes -

This is how her days usually go,
full of stops and starts, rarely a smooth flow.


On top of all the things we have to do, Elaine touches on how we're desperate for help. For many of us without household help or family to rely on, we turn to that dreaded device: the TV, or the iPad, or the smartphone. Sometimes we have to feed the always-hungry kids instant noodles, or hotdogs, or chips. Because we don't always have the time to cook. Or sometimes because it's just easier dammit. But ease seems to be something mothers shouldn't enjoy, and there is a poignant pain that twinges my heart as I read Elaine's plea for understanding. 

And then Elaine writes the words every mom says to herself at the end of another chaotic day.


Ain't that the truth.

In her Lithub article, The Heartbreaking Ingenuity of the Mother-Writer, Olivia Campbell writes, "Women writers have always been up against the expectation that they can do it all, all at once. Male authors are lauded as disciplined recluses for closing themselves away to write; women are praised for juggling writing and family simultaneously. But you can’t have it both ways. Either writing is a laborious, worthwhile craft requiring time alone or it’s not, no matter the writer’s gender. 'How does she do it all?' society muses while staring at the bedraggled mom-author clutching her book in one hand and her baby in the other. By having no work-life balance or boundaries. Losing sleep. Hiding in pantries. Getting increasingly angry by the lack of support. By nearly drowning." (italics mine)

No sleep, no rest, no time alone to collect oneself. And yet we persist in doing the work that separates us from the roles of wife and mother. For me, it's my work that saves me from the drowning. It's my writing that convinces me I am my own person, even if I love giving myself to others. It's what stops me from screaming into the void of duty. It's what takes my eyes away from the despair of exhaustion.

Don't worry, the book isn't all desperation. After that page where the mom in Elaine's book is undone by all her unfinished tasks, the book takes on a tender realization. 


Daddy to the rescue! I love how dads never seem to be worried. I guess that's how amazing moms are haha! Because moms are so focused on the tiny details, dads can see the big picture and know that we're doing okay, that this won't last, that this is actually the sweetest days of our life.

(On that note, not gonna lie, I am SO GLAD that stage is over. True, it was so sweet but I am in a much better place now that I can breathe. And read. And spend more than 5 minutes in the bathroom.)

And that's what I love about Mama, Interrupted. The book describes a mother's day - the chaos, the desperation, the wish to do her best - but it never shows resentment for the adorable interruptions. Having kids is difficult and the book doesn't shy away from that. That's why I urge everyone to give a copy to friends who just got married and are dreaming of babies. The book tells you it's going to be hard. But... It is what it is but it's not that bad as long as mama has support from her husband.

I appreciate that the book also brings attention to the role of dads. They're important, of course, as a father, but the mama also needs him as her husband, the one who anchors her when she's spiraling from all the drudgery of motherhood, the one who calms her down with his strength and logic, the one who assures her that after all this craziness, she still has him.


Mama, Interrupted is actually a book for moms disguised as a children's book. It's a love letter to her. It's an assurance - "I see you, mama, and I see all that you do. You're doing an amazing job." And isn't that what we mamas need? Not exactly gratitude because this is our duty. But it's ever so nice to be acknowledged. 

All that in a little book? Yes! It's a tender book with many hard truths. Easy to read and digest because of the rhyme, and a wonderful gift to give the moms in your life to tell her, "I see you. I love you. I honor you."  

Get your copy of Mama, Interrupted by Elaine Natividad Reyes. It's only P399 but you save more if you buy more! Order here.

* * * * * * *

I review books written by Filipinos. If you're a mom, I'll prioritize it! 

Follow me on Threads, @francesampersales
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Monday, September 02, 2024

Trigger Finger: What It Is, and When to See a Hand Specialist For It

Have you ever noticed how certain activities we do every day, like typing on a computer or even carrying grocery bags, can take a toll on our hands? For many of us moms, these repetitive motions are just a part of life, but over time, they can lead to issues we might not even be aware of—until they start causing pain. One such issue is a condition called "trigger finger," which is more common than you might think, especially for women in their 50s and 60s. 

I'm not even 50 yet but I felt it in my right pinky and ring fingers a few months ago. And that deeply upset me because I'm right-handed and the condition made daily life difficult (like I needed more reasons to have a hard time!). Writing, typing, cooking, and doing the laundry hurt!


Understanding what causes this condition and recognizing the symptoms early on can help you manage it more effectively. Women, particularly those juggling careers and household responsibilities, are at a higher risk of developing trigger finger. Activities like typing, gardening, or even repetitive chores around the house can contribute to this condition.

Many upper-limb repetitive stress injuries (RSIs) like ‘trigger finger’ are a major concern for office and factory workers. However, a study of these injuries conducted in Singapore found that female patients aged 51 to 60 were an especially at-risk cohort, likely because they also did a significant amount of housework in addition to their professions. Another study specifically covering trigger finger found that hobbies like gardening also factored in for Singaporeans. 

Thankfully, finding a hand specialist Singapore locals trust is not a problem, thanks to the country’s robust healthcare infrastructure. Regardless, even though they aren’t widely considered to be urgent conditions, trigger finger and other RSIs can be a serious impediment to life quality, particularly in the later years of one’s professional life.

What Is Trigger Finger?

Trigger finger, medically known as stenosing tenosynovitis, is an RSI that affects the tendons in the fingers or thumb, usually but not always in the dominant hand. It’s characterized by inflamed tendons or tendon sheaths, which cause the affected digits to catch or lock in place when bent. Think of it as like Spider-man's hands when he's shooting webs. This condition doesn't look as cool, though, and can be more than just an annoyance; it can impact your ability to perform simple daily tasks, from holding a coffee cup to buttoning a shirt. This condition can be painful and may significantly reduce a patient’s precision when performing certain tasks, such as typing, using a computer mouse, or playing a musical instrument.

Symptoms of Trigger Finger

The symptoms of trigger finger can vary in severity—some patients may feel intense pain while others feel no pain at all. Moreover, symptoms may develop gradually or appear suddenly. Common symptoms include:

Finger Stiffness. 
The thumb or fingers may feel stiff or unresponsive to conscious attempts to move it, resulting in a loss of precision when performing tasks demanding fine motor skills. This stiffness is often more prominent upon waking.

Clicking or Popping Sensation. 
Bending or straightening the affected digit may cause a clicking or popping sensation that you could feel or hear. This happens because of the tendon catching or dragging on the inflamed sheath.

Tenderness or Lump at the Base of the Finger. 
A small, tender lump may develop at the base of the affected digit, indicating a thickened tendon.

Pain When Bending or Straightening the Finger. 
Patients with trigger finger may feel pain in the palm when trying to straighten the digit.

Finger Locking in Bent Position. 
In more severe cases of trigger finger, the affected digit may lock in a bent position and require significant effort or even external assistance to straighten it. When the finger straightens, it may snap into place rather than move in a smooth motion. This is where the term “trigger finger” originates and it can be rather alarming for patients.

Causes of Trigger Finger

Like other RSIs, trigger finger is often caused by a repetitive strain, in this case on the tendons of the fingers and hands. Causes and risk factors of the condition include but are not limited to:

Repetitive Hand Movements. 
Engaging in activities that require frequent gripping or fine movements can increase the risk of developing trigger finger. Unfortunately, this cause is prevalent and practically impossible to avoid for many working-age professionals.

Inflammatory Conditions. 
Conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis or diabetes that cause swelling of the tendons or some kind of impingement in the hand area can increase the likelihood of developing trigger finger.

Gender and Age. 
Trigger finger is significantly more common in women than men and it is most commonly seen in professionals between the ages of 40 and 60.

Previous Hand Injuries. 
Old injuries to the hand can lead to scarring or thickening of the tendon sheath or the tissues next to it. This may interfere with the normal functioning of the digit and increase the risk of developing trigger finger.

Congenital Conditions. 
In extremely rare cases, children may be born with a congenital form of trigger finger.

When to See a Hand Specialist

Fortunately, trigger finger can sometimes resolve on its own if you avoid activities that worsen the condition. However, there are situations when it is advisable to see a hand specialist:

Finger Locking or Sticking. 
If your finger or thumb regularly locks or sticks in a bent position, you should see a hand specialist, even if no pain is involved. This invariably indicates an advanced stage of stenosing tenosynovitis

Symptoms Persist After Resting. 
If your symptoms persist despite resting the affected hand for a few weeks, it’s time to consult a hand specialist.

Increasing Pain. 
Seek professional help immediately if you experience chronic pain that continues to increase even with rest, splinting, or over-the-counter medication. This may indicate a need for corticosteroid injections or surgery.

Managing and Treating Trigger Finger

Fortunately, trigger finger is often manageable with rest and over-the-counter medications. Changing how you approach certain tasks and using ergonomic equipment can also help bring the condition under control.

However, the condition can still develop even in otherwise ideal conditions. If you notice persistent or worsening symptoms, seek advice from a hand specialist Singapore patients depend on. They should be able to recommend interventions that may restore functionality to your digits, allowing you to work and enjoy life unhindered by trigger finger.

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Friday, August 30, 2024

In 5 Years

It's August 30, 2024. I'm 47 years old. I'm married to a novelist who also writes for a business title. We have three sons—14, 12, and 10. I have one published book and three works in progress. I'm a book editor and the co-founder of Lean In Manila, and my day job is as a communications manager.

Five years from now, on August 30, 2029, I will be 52. I hope to still be happily married (like we won't be sick or dead) to Vince, who will be 55. Our sons will be 19, 17, and 15. That means we'll still need to work because we'll still have students, the eldest a college freshman, the second graduating senior high school, and the youngest graduating junior high. Looooong way to go before retirement!


A lot can happen in 5 years. Why, 5 years ago, in August 2019, I was a PR manager with little boys. By October, I'd resigned and became a work-at-home mommy. I was an influencer, a freelance writer, and a PR consultant. By January, I had signed 2 clients - the big one in hotels and tourism. But by March, the pandemic happened so I lost that business. We homeschooled our kids. I got a fun job as an editor for a copy agency with fashion and beauty clients all over the world. I wrote my first book, Not Invisible, (thank you for your support!) and that made me so happy I resolved to come out with a book every 3-5 years.

So in 2020, I wrote a book. In January 2021, it was published and ranked #3 New Release on Amazon in its category. I gave myself the rest of the year to promote it. The whole of 2022 was going to be writing the next book so I'll have my second book by 2023, 2024. I had been on schedule but then 2023 happened and I was derailed. In between, I went international and contributed to Boy Moms, the book by TheBump founder, I was published in Mother magazine, and was a finalist in the non-fiction category of Women on Writing. Meanwhile, Vince's fifth book The End of All Skies was published by Penguin Random House SEA so I got busy promoting his novel, too. Then my book editor job was resurrected when I edited Justine Castellon's novels. 

Now, my life has always revolved around words - writer, magazine editor, blogger - but the last few years have been especially wordy and I love it! So yes, the last 5 years were crazy. Crazy good, crazy bad. But all I can think of is how grateful I am anyway. And that I'm looking forward to the next 5 years while praying they will be kinder.

I saw this post on Instagram a couple of weeks ago and I want to do this activity, if only so I could focus on my 5-year vision.


I plan to accelerate my life!


I'll blog it! And it took me more than 30 minutes (2 weeks!) but only because August was extremely busy that I couldn't find time to sit down for 30 minutes and think and write it down! But I finally have time today. Hooray!


All I want is to be happy, healthy, and with my husband and sons, writing and editing. So yeah, I have everything I want!

Where am I living? 
I'm still living here in our condo, where we've lived since we married in 2007. I really love where we live, but I want a major renovation. It really needs a total revamp. 

But there's a part of me that wishes we lived in The Arton near Katipunan. I want my kids to study near their college, which will of course be UP Diliman. After almost 30 years of meeting and working with many kinds of people from different schools, I am still convinced it's the best university in the country.

Who am I waking up to next? 
I actually sleep by myself. My husband doesn't like this but ever since I started perimenopause, I have had a hard time sleeping, especially when someone else is breathing beside me (husband or child). But when I'm on my own, I can fall asleep within minutes. So I weighed it: my marriage or my sanity? My marriage or my health? My marriage adjusted. We're still very happily married and very happily sexual despite sleeping apart. 

That said, I hope when this perimenopause hell is done and my hormones have calmed down and my sleep isn't so easily disturbed, I'd be waking up beside my husband again. Especially since it's so delicious to wake up with him. 

What does my house look like? 
I would like my house to look more stark. More bookshelves for my piles and piles of books and storage to hide all our mess. My kitchen will be smaller but more efficient and very white. Bathrooms will be more modern. The kids will have custom-built beds and closets. Our bedroom will also have custom-built shelves and closets. There will be better lighting. There will be speakers in the ceiling in every room so that I can listen to music properly. I've been leaning towards white and gray for a while now. I guess it's because my life is so busy that I want to be surrounded by blankness. But my husband likes color so this is never going to happen. He's already had to adjust to my sleeping preference.

Maybe I'll rent a studio and paint it all white, put a desk and a daybed there, line the walls with shelves for my books. Put up a watercolor painting corner and take up drawing and painting again. Another corner can be a podcasting station maybe. I also want a big table for all my unfinished projects. I can go there to think and write. And sleep.

Virginia Woolf wrote in A Room of One's Own that financial constraints and the prejudice of society have inhibited a woman's creativity. And yet, while I agree, millions of women, despite having no money, no time, no rest, and no support, continue to still create. It's infinitely easier to create without worrying over bills, security, and childcare, and yet we women persist. I believe that's what makes us such beautiful creatures.

What time do I start work? 
Well, if I still worked at Personal Collection, I'd start work at 8 AM. But if I had my way, I'd start work at 10. That means I'd either be busy with my resurrected writing and editing business (it's dormant now but I'm still filing taxes via Taxumo) or I'm writing my third or fourth book! 

What's on my calendar that day?
Let's see. August 30, 2029, is a Thursday. I'll probably be working and then cooking. Then I'll have dinner with my family and then read or write. Same old, same old. But that's okay.

Who am I working with?
If I'm still with PC, hopefully, I'd be working with the same team. I like them a lot. I'd also like Lean In Manila to be more prominent in my life by then. We haven't had time to do more with it but maybe in 5 years, we'd be doing monthly Circle Sessions and talks and workshops. 

I want to work with more words so that means I want to work with authors as their book editor. Or I'd be working with my publisher because I'd have my nth book by then! I also want to write for publications again so I'd be working with more editorial teams.  

What is my salary?
You know, if life weren't so expensive, I'd be happy teaching kids, writing books, blogging, serving coffee in a little library cafe that's been my dream to start. I'd even be okay with arranging bookshelves in a bookstore. So yeah, my kids would starve if I did that haha

I've done the math and we just need P200,000 a month to live comfortably. I honestly don't want more than that. But I'm not earning that yet. I don't know how to get there but if you're hiring and would like to offer me that, let me know!

How do I feel about my job?
Assuming I'm still with PC, I think I'll be doing okay. I actually really like my job. I just don't like the hours. If it were a 9-5, it would be perfect. It's an 8-6. As a mom and an author, that makes me unhappy. 

So if in 2029, I'm in a job that's 9-5 (but pays 200K??? hahahaha) or better yet, starts at 10am, I'd be very very happy!

I really should just restart my business. I was earning okay. But I got too old for the hustle and the running after clients who don't pay. I just couldn't deal with the indignities anymore.

What is my health like?
So I had a bad year last year. My physical and mental health suffered. This year, I started exercising and eating better. Still not exercising daily and I really should add more fruits and veggies to my diet and curb the carbs. But I've already lost 10 lbs! That was my year-end goal but I achieved it in 6 months! Yey me!

So in 5 years' time, I hope to be fit and healthy. I want to be 125 lbs (I'm 134 now). I want to be able to run and climb stairs without huffing. I want to be muscled and toned with clear skin, my cholesterol levels down, my periods over, and I'll just be a crazy, happy, gorgeous, bitchin' middle-aged woman!

How often do I travel?
Hopefully, never. You know, that is the most un-Filipino thing about me. I hate leaving my house. I intensely dislike traveling. I mean, I'd do it if I had to. Like, if I'm forced to do it because it's a job or a wedding or something family-related. Okay, fine, I like traveling for work. And only for work. I hate traveling for leisure. So in 5 years' time, if I am traveling, I'm only doing it for my kids. Or family. Or work.


Why, no, everything I wrote I know about me, but I was surprised that I publicly admitted to hating traveling! 


I'm definitely adding to the working with others part. I've been itching to do collaborations again and meeting new people again and just working on something that isn't my job.


This is true! I've always had a crisply detailed vision of my future. Even when the kids stampeded over it and motherhood and my corporate job kinda drown me with all their might. My head bobs up from the waters of duty and I still see that the one thing I really want to do in my life is write. It's always been the shining beacon, the one thing that saved me from poverty, that got me my husband, that gave me a happy career, that kept me from going insane when my mental health suffered, and it's still the one thing that makes me completely happy. Life may get in the way but I also know I'll always steer myself back to writing. Now I just need to figure out how to make writing make me big bucks!

And that's what this whole exercise achieved! I realized I need to make writing make me not just happy and fulfilled but also make me lots of money! And this is our cue to laugh ourselves silly hahaha  

Well, this was a fruitful exercise. I'm giddy now! Let the planning begin!

I wrote my way outWrote everything down far as I could seeI wrote my way outI looked up and the town had its eyes on me

I wrote my way out of hellI wrote my way to revolution

Wait for it, wait for it, wait for it (I'll write my way out)Wait for it, wait for it, wait for it (write everything down, far as I can see)Wait for it, wait for it, wait for it, wait (history has its eyes on you)
I'll write my way outOverwhelm them with honesty
- "Hurricane," Hamilton
Typed away by a bleary-eyed at 1 comment:
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