Last year, I crowned 2008 as my biggest year ever—and honestly, how could I not? I had spent five unforgettable months in Okinawa, Japan, learning, growing, and seeing life from a whole new lens. At that time, I thought, “This is it. This is the peak.”
But life has this funny way of outdoing itself. The years that followed only got bigger and bolder, and that made 2010 just as thrilling, if not more.
Before I tell you about 2010, let me take a quick rewind to 2009, a year packed with milestones, adventures, and quiet victories:
I attended an International Conference for SOLD in Baybay, Leyte, from March 27-30.
I became part of the Information, Communication, and Documentation Committee for the 2009 Palarong Pambansa in Tacloban, Leyte, April 22-May 1.
I traveled to different parts of the Philippines to attend IMCS workshops, which expanded my network and sharpened my skills.
I took on leadership roles—Officer-in-Charge of the ETD unit in August and Public Desk Officer for the OSEC in October and December.
On November 11, I evaluated USAID-donated TXs/SMs—a unique experience that added to my professional portfolio.
On a personal note, I moved out from my in-law’s house and officially began living independently.
Chess remained a huge part of my life—I competed in tournaments all over the country.
I focused on my health, got comfortably fit, started biking, and exercised regularly (still keeping up with it!).
I learned one of life’s underrated superpowers—how to cook.
Looking back, 2009 was a turning point year, full of growth and change, not just professionally, but personally.
Now, as I step into 2010, I don’t have a crystal ball. I don’t know exactly what’s in store for me, but I’m walking into it with hope, energy, and excitement. Life’s proven that every year has its own surprises, and I’m here for it all.
Happy New Year, everyone! Here’s to embracing whatever comes next.
