A Love That Endures

"Love will find a way through paths where wolves fear to prey." — Lord Byron

     

    Love has always been a force that defies the odds. It pushes through barriers, withstands storms, and finds a way to exist even in the most difficult circumstances. That’s what makes Valentine’s Day so special, it’s not just a celebration of love when it’s easy, but also when it’s tested. True love, in any form, is about perseverance. It’s about choosing each other even when things are hard, about standing strong in the face of doubt, and about walking paths that others might fear to tread.

    Love finds a way, even when the world says it cannot. Not all love stories are easy, and that’s what makes them meaningful. Some people express love through grand gestures, but more often than not, love is proven in the quiet and unseen moments, the sacrifices made, the patience shown, and the forgiveness given. It’s about commitment, about holding on when things get tough, about understanding instead of walking away, and about finding light even in the darkest of times. 

    For me, the best way to express love is through time and presence. In a world where people are always rushing, simply choosing to stay, to listen, and to be there is one of the most powerful acts of love. It’s easy to tell someone you love them during good times, but love shows its true strength in difficult times. It’s in the deep conversations that mend wounds, in the laughter that pushes away fear, in the simple, steady reassurance that says, "I'm here, no matter what." That’s the kind of love that endures.

    While Valentine’s Day is usually for couples, it’s also for anyone who has ever fought for love, in any form. The connections that have survived misunderstandings, for the family members who have stood by each other through thick and thin, and for those who have learned to love themselves despite the world telling them otherwise. Love isn’t always easy, but the most meaningful kinds never are. They require strength, faith, and the courage to walk a path that others might fear.

    Valentine’s Day is a reminder that love isn’t about always about ease and happy moments, it’s about endurance. It’s about believing that love is worth the fight, even when the road is uncertain. Because true love, the kind that lasts, is the one that braves the wolves, walks through the dark, and still finds its way home.

References:

Angel [@lisoovaa]. (n.d.). Flowers store. Pinterest. Retrieved February 15, 2025, from https://pin.it/2D3Md2F7n

Kyra [@kyra3156]. (n.d.). [Image of flowers] [Pinterest post]. Pinterest. Retrieved February 15, 2025, from https://pin.it/1iFP5sIuC

Three Quarters Through, What’s Next to Pursue?

 

"Growth comes from challenges, and every lesson learned is a step closer to becoming who we’re meant to be."

     The third quarter has been a whirlwind of challenges, discoveries, and growth. From learning about Community-Based Research (CBR) to figuring out how to make a webpage and getting hands-on with HTML lists and frames, it's been a journey filled with both challenges and exciting moments. There were definitely times I felt frustrated, but those challenges turned into moments of accomplishment that made everything worth it. 

     The first lesson we tackled this quarter was Community-Based Research (CBR). This lesson taught me a whole new perspective on research. It’s not just about gathering facts and data, it’s also about working together with the community to know better and make real, positive changes. We worked side by side with people to figure out issues that matter to them, and it felt rewarding to know that our research could make a difference. 

   Along with that, we also made a webpage to show our CBR project’s contents and although I am not that good with HTML and CSS, it was fun seeing our ideas and files work. It was a bit challenging at first especially when it came to layout and design, but as we kept practicing, it started to click, and we were able to create a webpage that really showcased our work.

  Another part of the learning process was learning about html frames, ordered lists, unordered lists, and nested lists in HTML. These were part of a separate lesson, but they were really helpful for organizing information in a clear way on our webpage. Ordered lists were great for showing steps or sequences, unordered lists made organizing general information easy, and nested lists allowed us to create more complex structures within the lists. HTML frames let me display different web pages in one window, making it easier to organize content in separate sections. They were very helpful and made the contents clear and easy to follow.

     If I’m being honest, the biggest struggle was creating our webpage for the CBR project. Since I was a complete beginner with HTML and CSS, it felt like I was just throwing things together and hoping it would work. There were definitely moments when I wanted to give up. So, I watched tutorials, asked questions, and tried again. Slowly but surely, I started to get the hang of it, and eventually, our webpage was successfully finished. It taught me that sometimes things don’t come together right away, but persistence and practice really pay off.

     Looking ahead, I’m excited to keep improving my HTML and CSS skills. I want to get better at designing better, and maybe even start learning more advanced techniques. I also plan to keep using ordered lists and nested lists in future projects to keep things organized and neat. The lessons I learned from Community-Based Research will stay with me, too. I’ll always remember the importance of listening to the community and working together to make a positive impact.

     This quarter has taught me a lot about resilience. It’s easy to get discouraged when things aren’t going well, but it’s all part of the process. I’m looking forward to applying everything I’ve learned and continuing to grow as I take on more challenges in the future.

References:

Blogger. https://www.blogger.com

A Holiday That is More Than Just a Celebration

 Chinese New Year is an important celebration in the Philippines because of the long history between Filipinos and Chinese immigrants. Over the years, Chinese culture has influenced the way Filipinos celebrate, and now, Chinese New Year is a big event that many Filipinos look forward to. The streets are decorated with red lanterns and bright colors, and everyone gets excited because the festival is about beginnings, good luck, and prosperity. Filipinos celebrate this tradition not just because of Chinese roots, but because the holiday brings joy and hope to everyone.

    What makes Chinese New Year special in the Philippines is how inclusive it is. People from all different backgrounds come together to celebrate, even if they’re not Chinese. In the Philippines, this custom has grown to show kindness and generosity, not just within families but also to friends and sometimes even strangers. It’s a way for everyone to spread good vibes and show how much they care for each other, making the event feel extra special and welcoming for everyone.

    Food is another part of Chinese New Year celebrations. Filipino and Chinese dishes are served together, and the table is filled with food that represents good fortune. Dishes like tikoy, which is a sweet sticky rice cake, and dumplings are enjoyed by everyone. Families come together to eat, share stories, and have fun. This tradition helps strengthen relationships and brings a sense of community, where people share what they have and enjoy each other's company. It’s a way of showing love and care for one another.

     Aside from the fun, Chinese New Year is also a time for reflection and starting fresh. Families visit temples and pray for health, happiness, and success in the new year. It’s a chance to leave bad memories behind and look forward to a better future. Chinese New Year in the Philippines brings together different generations and helps people pass down old traditions. It’s not just about having fun, it’s about celebrating the beauty of different cultures coming together and creating unity among all Filipinos.

    Chinese New Year in the Philippines is a special celebration that brings everyone together. On this day, families and friends join in the fun by decorating streets with red lanterns, enjoying a mix of Filipino and Chinese foods, and sharing warm wishes for a bright future. It’s a time to start fresh, let go of old worries, and hope for good luck in the new year. It is more than just a holiday, it teaches us about unity, kindness, and the beauty of celebrating different cultures together.

References:

Lucero, J. (2024, February 9). Why Chinese New Year is important for Filipinos. Manila Bulletin. https://mb.com.ph/2024/2/8/why-chinese-new-year-is-important-for-filipinos#google_vignette

NBC News. (2017, January 23). 10 Lunar New Year facts to help answer your pressing questions. NBC News. https://images.app.goo.gl/Fyt4Bb8qQqmH1EWb8

Wurzburger, A. (2024, January 17). Lunar New Year 2024: What to Know About the Holiday. People. https://people.com/lifestyle/lunar-new-year-explainer-who-celebrates-traditions-and-more/

Where the Legacy of Vigan Begins

  

  Vigan, one of the oldest towns in the Philippines, has a long history that began in the 16th century when Spanish explorer Juan de Salcedo created a town called Villa Fernandina. Vigan is located at the mouth of the Mestizo River, making it a perfect spot for trading between the local people and Chinese merchants long before Spain arrived. This made Vigan an important center for trade and helped shape its culture and economy.

 

    As a small town, Vigan became a place for business and culture. The town’s buildings showed a mix of Spanish, Chinese, and Filipino styles. The lower floors of the houses were made of stone and brick and were used for shops or storage. The upper floors were made of wood and it is where families lived. During the Galleon Trade, Vigan became a big part of global trade, making it an important city in Asia at the time.

     By the late 1800s, Vigan’s role as a trading center started to fade, but it still kept its cultural importance. The town kept its old cobblestone streets, historic buildings, and important public places, like Plaza Salcedo and Plaza Burgos. These areas showed how Spanish, Chinese, and Ilocano cultures all came together to create Vigan’s unique identity.

     In 2001, Vigan became a city under a new law called Republic Act No. 8988. This was an exciting change for the town, as it gave Vigan the chance to improve its roads, services, and facilities, but still keep its old charm. Becoming a city also helped Vigan grow its economy, especially through tourism. The city’s beautiful old streets, like Calle Crisologo, were restored, attracting visitors from all over the world.

    Now as a city, Vigan has found a way to grow while keeping its history. Its old buildings and streets are still standing, and Vigan has added new services and buildings for locals and tourists. Festivals like the Longganisa and Binatbatan festival celebrate its culture and traditions, helping people remember and appreciate the city’s past.

    Vigan’s journey from a small town to a city shows how it has stayed strong and proud of its heritage. It shows that it’s possible to honor the past while moving forward, making it an example for other towns to follow. Vigan proves that the past and the future can live together in harmony.

References:

UNESCO World Heritage Centre. (n.d.). Historic City of Vigan. Retrieved from https://whc.unesco.org/en/list/502/

Lonely Planet. (n.d.). Vigan, Philippines, Asia. Retrieved from https://www.lonelyplanet.com/philippines/north-luzon/vigan

Tatler Asia. (2021, May 14). Exploring Vigan: A well-preserved Spanish colonial town in the Philippines. Retrieved from https://www.tatlerasia.com/lifestyle/travel/in-its-full-glory

Philippines Cities. (2020, August 14). Vigan City, Ilocos Sur: History, tourist spots, language, and more. Retrieved from https://philippinescities.com/vigan-city-ilocos-sur/

Facebook. (2022, July 7). The Vigan City Hall. Retrieved from https://www.facebook.com/share/p/15fXfuL53h/?mibextid=oFDknk

A Better Tommorow

     

    As the clock strikes 12:00 midnight, people all around the world cheer, and fireworks light up the sky. The scene is one marking not only the end of a year but also the beginning of a new one—a fresh start, a blank page, a chance to reset. The past year, with all its highs and lows, triumphs and failures, had finally come to an end. It's time to put the past in its place, our past mistakes, missed opportunities, and regrets. With a hopeful heart, we welcome a new year, full of endless possibilities.

    This past year really was tough. I did things that made me regret my actions, but still, it was never too late to change. There is always hope for better times and another chance to improve myself. We are not failures because we did not become what we wanted to be or did not achieve all that we dreamed of. It's a long journey, and at times, we fall down. But I will always hold on to the belief that there will be a better tomorrow, for each new day presents an opportunity to try once more.

    The beauty of the new year lies in its promise. The promise that we can grow, change, and be the person and live the life we’ve always wanted. In so many ways, it reminds you, no matter how tough or challenging this year has been, that tomorrow starts anew the chances to rebuild your life better, into a finer and more improved version. The new year is more than just new year resolutions, it is about actually putting words into actions to become the person that we want to be, even if it means starting from zero. 

    We all have moments that we regret, some decisions we wish we could change, or paths we wish we'd taken. But the past is behind us, and the future is ours to shape. It's time to forgive ourselves, let go of the baggage, and work on becoming the best version of who we are meant to be. In 2025, we'll be working on our progress and not perfection. It's okay to stumble and fall along the way. The most important thing is how we rise again, how we learn from the fall, and how we continue.

    This year, it's all about embracing change and growth. It's a reminder that we need not be bound by our past; rather, we can create the future we want. Whether it be for personal development, new passions, or just being in the moment, each day provides an opportunity to transform.

    So let's step into this new year with open hearts and minds, ready to leave the past behind and embrace the endless possibilities ahead. A new year brings new beginnings—and with each new beginning comes the chance to redefine ourselves. Here’s to 2025: a year of growth, resiliency, and becoming the best version of you.

References:

Time and Date (2024). New Year's Day. https://images.app.goo.gl/Qev98YLhLSvp74zU8

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Merry Moments, Endless Enjoyment

    

    

        Having the christmas vacation means having a break and rest from school, or in generally, from everything. It means resting, having a time for yourself, spending more time with your family, reconnecting with nature, and having more time to sleep! And of course, making the most of every moment. Additionally, the atmosphere during christmas season is very calming, it is really cold and windy. I love that weather, really.

    During the christmas vacation, of course I was really looking forward to getting more sleep, and waking up at any time of the day that I would like. I really loved sleeping. I also spent my vacation in my gadgets, or course. I played games and watched a lot of movies and series that i really enjoyed. I was happy I could finally watch the movies I was saving for the christmas vacation.

    Of course I didn't want to just be on my room lying down all day. Our family went to Ilocos Norte for something important and I went to join them. We didn't do much exploring and just went to Robinsons Mall, but I enjoyed the views along the way during the trip there. Also, on Christmas, we, my family, went to Abra, where my father side lives. We spent the christmas there reconnecting and bonding together as we didn't see each other for too long.

    What I loved the most during my Christmas vacation was when my cousins went to us and we shared bond, happiness, and laughter together. I truly cherished spending quality time with them, whether it was playing games, talking to each other, laughing together, or simply enjoying each other's company. The laughter and joy we shared made the holiday season even more special, and those moments are ones I will always treasure.

    My Christmas vacation was truly a memorable one, filled with moments of relaxation, family bonding, and self-care. It was a time to unwind from the usual routine and focus on what truly matters—spending quality time with loved ones and cherishing the simple pleasures of life. The joy of reconnecting with family, the peaceful weather, and the time to rest all made it an unforgettable experience. I’m grateful for the memories created during this holiday season.

    Looking back, I realize how important it is to take a break from the busyness of everyday life and enjoy the holiday moments. Christmas is not only about gifts and celebrations but also about creating memories with the people who matter most. This vacation allowed me to reconnect with family, appreciate the little things, and recharge for the upcoming year. It was a reminder to cherish every moment and make the most of time spent with those we love.

References:

Twinkl (2021). What is Christmas day? | Origin, History & Traditions | Twinkl. https://www.google.com/url?sa=i&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.twinkl.com.ph%2Fteaching-wiki%2Fchristmas-day&psig=AOvVaw0naliRA9CcADIM5u9q2UaX&ust=1736308357877000&source=images&cd=vfe&opi=89978449&ved=0CBcQjhxqFwoTCMihw-La4ooDFQAAAAAdAAAAABAb

Interhampers (2024). How Christmas is Celebrated Around the World. https://images.app.goo.gl/te6oHs9ipYMLS6kr5

Time and Date (2024). Christmas Eve 2025 in the Unitwd States. https://images.app.goo.gl/7nxXASmK6py85eCz8

Skills in Bloom, Growth to Consume

     It feels so unreal, knowing half of the school year already passed and the second quarter is at its end. This quarter was surely an exciting chapter in my academic journey. Since day one, I already knew that coding would be included in the curriculum. For the topic of coding, I had less experience, and being honest, I was somewhat frightened. I was concerned that lessons would be hard to catch up on or that I would fall behind, but these weeks have found me surprised that I not only understand the basics of coding, but I actually enjoy it.

     Learning HTML allowed me to create simple web pages, experiment with tags, and see how small changes could make big results. It's like unlocking a whole new world of creativity and problem-solving. Accomplishment with each project drove my confidence. This quarter reminded me that stepping out of your comfort zone often leads to the greatest growth.

    Besides coding, blogging lessons were the most enjoyable moments of the quarter. Blogging gave me an opportunity to express myself, be creative, and therefore improve my writing skills. Writing articles on different topics was entertaining but at the same time taught me how to get in touch with an audience. Whether it be discussing current events or sharing personal reflections, blogging helped me put my ideas across with more confidence.

    Of course, no journey is without its hurdles. This quarter presented its fair share of challenges, from technical issues like HTML tags not working as expected to moments of confusion while trying to grasp new concepts. These obstacles taught me the value of patience, problem-solving, and collaboration. Asking for help from classmates became one of the most important strategies to get over these difficulties, and I felt how much we are capable of doing when we work together. And asking for help is not a weakness; it is one of the most powerful ways to learn and grow with others.

    In addition to the technical knowledge, this quarter also instilled in me a much deeper sense of persistence and adaptability. It is so easy sometimes to turn and run away when everything is not going right, but to find a solution out and keep moving is just exhilarating. Each setback proved to be an opportunity to learn something new: at times troubleshooting some technical problem, and at other times some refinement of an approach to some task at hand.

    In the future, I am excited to further develop my knowledge of coding. It's been great working with HTML and creating something from scratch; thus, this is a skill I am interested in developing further. Maybe this will be a useful hobby or even a career some day. Apart from coding, I'm going to take the knowledge of this quarter, including patience, creativity, and collaboration, into every single part of my life.

    The second quarter has been bittersweet; it was a mix of ups and downs, but most importantly, one of growth. I am rather excited to see what the third quarter has in store and how I apply the knowledge and skills that I have gained. This whole experience has taught me something: every challenge is an opportunity, and every lesson learned brings us closer to becoming the best version of ourselves.

References:

Blogger. <http://www.blogger.com>