**Disclaimer: This post was meant to be published before the year ended but I was caught up with a lot of stuff. Better late than never! Happy New Year!
January
My 1st month in Nashville was a little sentimental. I was missing home a whole lot. I missed having my family and friends around. I'm thankful for technology though because I got to Facetime most of them especially my nephew. But on the later part, I also enjoyed my time just resting and slowing down. I realized that I was always on the move for the past years and didn't get a chance to just pause and breathe. I was also blessed to land a job very quickly.
February
We started to explore what Nashville has to offer, and so far I'm very happy that we have the access to do nature tripping. We don't need to drive very far to be able to do it. I said to myself beginning of the year that I will try new things, explore new heights and so here I am venturing out indoor wall climbing. I must say I need to work on my upper body strength. Phew! Also, in Feb, Nelson turned 33 and we had some of his workmates come to our apartment and I was able to cook for them. (Side note: I love it when I get to host a luncheon.)
March
Miggy turned 1 and I got the chance to fly back to New York and celebrate with the family. I was also able to see some friends and man, it felt so good to be surrounded with some familiar faces. The food trips which I apparently plan due to the limited food options in Nash, the life updates, the laughs and everything else, I was silently capturing it to my most cherished moments. I also realized from this trip that the Big Apple will always be part of my fiber but it is time to put that behind because I can't keep up with the hustle anymore.
April
New found friends. I am beyond grateful for finding new sisterhood to nurture. The very first thing that I did upon moving was to check the catholic community in Nashville. I was hopping from one church to another until I associated myself with a young adult community where I was able to meet these lovely ladies. (Pro tip: You really need to put yourself out there.)
May
Nelson and I decided to do a road trip and celebrate our 2nd anniversary in NOLA. The 20 hour drive back and forth was worth it. We enjoyed the French culture, food and all the jazz. This is a place worth visiting, it's really out of the ordinary.
June
I got a chance to meet with Nelson's high school buddies in Tampa, FL. It was fun to see him with them as they were going back memory lane of all the crazy adventures they did together. Of course, what is a Florida trip without going to the beach right? Even if the weather was not cooperating, it didn't stop us from taking a plunge. I was ecstatic to meet up with cousin who lives there now. By the end of the month, my siblings came to see us in Nashville. It was a happy reunion. Back story though, during their visit, Nashville experience a state wide blackout due to weather conditions and it's been years since I experienced such. One for the books!
July
This has been the hottest summer according to some folks. A record breaking of 100F temperature was hitting Nashville. In order to cool off, we have checked out some bodies of water around us. Luckily, we are surrounded by lakes and waterfalls that are in close proximity to us. I still prefer the beach but I'll take what's available.
August
There was a major change at work that led to a bittersweet goodbye. I'm still thankful for the change because it allowed me to do some thinking and solo traveling. I went to San Antonio to visit my good friend, Angie and her family. It was a week long of life updates and future goals. I also got a chance to meet their baby, Charley. I thank the Freemans for the time well spent and most especially for bringing me to Magnolia Market in Waco, TX. On the other hand, I flew to New York to surprise my parents. I pulled it off with the help of my siblings. It was such a great feeling to be home, to be with my nephew, to eat some home cooked Filipino food, to meet up with some friends, to be in the beach and to make new memories. One thing is for sure, New York will always hold a special place in my heart and I will and always be forever grateful of the life lessons it has taught me.
September
I came back to Nashville recharged. I also started with a new work opportunity which I'm so grateful for. God really works in mysterious ways. I have so many doubts and questions but of course, He has answered me and assured me once again that His plans are greater than mine. Just like the waterfalls, He will continue to be the source of strength, hope and abundance.
October
This year, I'm so grateful for the new found friendships. The beginning of 2019 was a little bumpy. I was homesick, lonely and sad but I was given an opportunity to meet these wonderful ladies. I feel loved and appreciated by all of them. I continue to pray for this God centered sisterhood and to remind myself that there are no coincidences in life but only divine appointments.
November
We spent some time to be with Nelson's family in Florida as we celebrate his sister's pregnancy. I also got a chance to meet some of his siblings for the first time. Bigger family, the better! Also, this month is so special and will be cherished forever because I gave my sweet YES to my best friend.
December
December
Turned 30, got married= a double check on my bucket list. But seriously, God has truly graced me with so much favors this 2019. I have reached a new milestone, married the love of my life and celebrated my first anniversary in my new home. I'm so thankful for the many blessings I have received. Time and again, God has reminded me that His plans are better than mine and He for sure listens to our prayers.
I bid goodbye to 2019 with a grateful heart. It has been a wonderful year for me. It is in my prayer that as I embark the new year, I will be able to put into actions the lesson all I've learned and to try to always have an open mind and heart for the new challenges that will come my way. 2020, I'm so looking forward for you! Lezz do this! #Roaringtwenties
