"You're so ungrateful. Nakaka-turn off. Learn how to say thank you." , a cat once purred to me.

This photo is more than two (2) decades old. Wish we could have another complete photo op soon :)

                                 

That was more than two years ago, and since then, I've become more appreciative of even the smallest of things.

A lot has happened this 2016 that everything seems like a blur. From Election Year, to #Brangelina breakup, to Allepo's unending bombing, Miss Universe scandal, to my second second year in law school. However, despite all the things that would have caused me to sulk or outright throw my outrage against the world, I am reminded that yes, #blessed also happened. 2016 has been a fruitful year for me. Bumpy but otherwise, a great ride.

Before I close another year of this life, Air Asia Philippines reminds me to spend this season with a grateful heart. Check out #AirAsiaPH #ThankYou video.

I hope that this inspires you to share the joy of showing appreciation to all those who warmed our hearts.



This year, I was reminded how I underestimated my family. Sorry guys. *cries* I've always known that you always got my back but I doubted everything after I flunked some subjects in law school. Yet, as cliche as this can get, you we're ok with it and there wasn't any "I told you so".  "If you want to become a lawyer then be a lawyer", you said.

I need to learn how to show my appreciation for everything that you do to me.
You have never been my loudest cheer leaders but your subtle bouts of pep talk make me feel all the more thankful.

Thanks Dad for always being cool. I know it's not your responsibility to support me after I graduated from college yet I never heard you say "Undangi nalang ng law school" (You better quit law school), you always find ways.

my golden dad last xmas eve 2016

at Mom Beth and Dad's wedding reception March 2016

To my kuyas for coming home this year and for making me realize that my life is not just all law school and that I should treasure every moment that we all spend together. (Too bad we never had a complete family photo with Dad. huhu Next year nalang (hopefully next year)! hihi)

#theMalnegros 1,2,3,4 complete after almost a decade, September 2016 at home

Korean little hearts, Vikings, September 2016

before he left again for DXB huhu

I wanted to surprise him at the airport but I had no choice but to contact him coz I didn't know his arrival time lol

To my sister, Amay. I know this year hasn't been a good year for you but you stayed strong, calm and collected and always flashed that bright smile that you have. Thank you for allowing me to become your ate this year. For updating me on the biggest things going on in your life. For listening to my advice and considering my opinions. I'm almost teary-eyed on this part 'coz I think we've really grown closer this year.

March 2016, before going to Mom and Dad's wedding

To Ming, my siblings' adoptive brother. Thank you for getting along with everyone so well. You were never "pabebe" and you really reached out to my family and even gone the extra mile every time. Sometimes I even wonder whether you're their real blood brother and I'm just adopted huhu haha

Election 2016

Amay and Ming with Milo preparing for my birthday May 2016

at Alcatraz Penal Bar, July 2016

bros and booze, September 2016

And to my cousins, Ate Ching and Czarina for reminding me that: "Ohana means family. Family means no one gets left behind or forgotten."