January 26, 2026
Some mornings begin with energy.
Some begin with exhaustion.
Today was one of those mornings where my body reminded me that I’m human.
On my way to work, barely 6:30 AM, thirsty, tired, watching someone already getting a ticket, and thinking… wow, it’s going to be a long but meaningful week.
And yet, it’s still another beautiful day to be gorgeous — even when gorgeous looks like showing up tired, but still showing up.
This week is busy. I’m fully booked before my one-month break, and somewhat fully booked when I return. A reminder that I am needed, trusted, and valued in my work — and also a reminder that rest is not optional, it is necessary.
A Simple Lunch, A Sacred Pause
At lunchtime, I found myself with something beautifully simple:
Rice. Sardines in olive oil. A little calamari.
Nothing fancy — but nourishing in all the ways that matter.
As I sat there eating, enjoying the cool air and the sun, I realized something:
Healing doesn’t always look dramatic.
Sometimes it looks like sitting quietly, feeding yourself well, and allowing your thoughts to settle.
There is something deeply grounding about choosing simplicity in a world that constantly asks for more.
Letting Go Without Closing My Heart
I noticed something today — I haven’t been talking much about the friend I was grieving.
Not because it didn’t matter.
Not because it didn’t hurt.
But because I’ve finally reached a place of peace around it.
I still value him. I still see his worth.
And if he ever reaches out, I will honor him the way I wish I was honored.
But I’ve also learned something essential:
I cannot control how others feel about me.
I cannot make people stay.
All I can do is show up as my most authentic self and let people choose whether that resonates with them.
And the beautiful part?
Some people have chosen me.
They’ve seen most parts of me — the strong, the tired, the uncertain — and they’re still here.
That is where my peace lives now.
In my tribe.
In the people who continue to show up.
A Healing Journey Back Home
I am beyond excited for my upcoming trip to the Philippines.
Not because I have everything planned — I don’t.
But because I’m craving something much deeper than a schedule.
I’m craving quiet.
Peace.
Time with my mom.
We’re heading to Bangkok for part of the trip, possibly Chiang Mai, depending on how my mom feels walking around. I’m learning to move slower. To honor her pace. To choose presence over rushing.
And honestly, that’s the kind of life I want to build — one that moves with intention, not pressure.
Building a Future Without Forcing the Timeline
I often talk about wanting to live in the Philippines one day.
And while I haven’t taken that full leap of faith yet, I’m laying the foundation — gently, intentionally.
Right now, I still find deep purpose in being a nurse practitioner.
I want to continue practicing medicine in a way that aligns with who I am — possibly with my own telehealth practice in the future, allowing me flexibility and freedom while still serving patients.
I’ve completed two out of the six years needed before applying for my own practice.
Four more years to go.
And a lot can happen in four years.
So I’m not rigidly banking on one outcome — I’m simply building options.
Multiple paths toward the same vision:
A life of simplicity.
A life of autonomy.
A life that allows me to care for others without abandoning myself.
Choosing Myself Without Abandoning My Calling
This is the balance I’m learning:
I can love my work
AND
I can prioritize my life.
I can care deeply for patients
AND
Still choose time with my mom.
I can be committed
AND
Still crave freedom.
The future I’m building is not just about where I live —
It’s about how I live.
With intention.
With authenticity.
With courage.
And with grace for the unknown.
Trusting the Unknown, Leaning Into Faith
Yes, part of me is afraid.
Part of me is anxious.
But another part of me is learning to release control —
To lean into God.
To lean into the universe.
To trust that where I’m going is unfolding exactly as it should.
All I ask for is this:
A place where I belong.
A life where I feel free to be myself.
A future built on peace, purpose, and love.
And step by step, I’m getting there.
Final Thoughts
This journey isn’t rushed.
It isn’t perfect.
But it is mine.
And that, in itself, is something beautiful.
Day in the life of a Filipina Nurse Practitioner 
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