One slow evening as I was tidying up my work table and just waiting for the last reservation to come in, I was prompted by an email that led me to my long-lost love.
In a quiet corner of the world wide web, I created a small space for my thoughts and feelings and named it Simple Pleasures. It began during a time when I had the luxury of sitting down to share my daily musings with the world—life as a new bride, the early stages of motherhood, monthly love letters to each of my children until they turned 1, and almost anything under the sun.
So, I thought to myself, why not revisit it now? How about making it a point to write one note a month? It can be done. I know it can.
And so, here’s how my January unfolded, or how at least I remembered it:
New Year's Eve with the family -
Dinner at Mama's house
At Richard and Lucy's home
I remember waking up to all the aches and pains that the New Year brought—especially in my tired feet (blame it on the heels)—and the constant waking up in the wee morning hours because the littlest one couldn’t nap (blame it on the boating trip on New Year’s Eve afternoon).
TIP: Always take that afternoon nap on New Year's Eve.
The boating trip on New Year's Eve afternoon.
The kids had so much fun, though, thank you, Dear Don!
But we all quickly put together a clean outfit ready for New Year’s luncheon with the family.
Our first meal of 2026 was Cocido. It always is, always was, for as long as I can remember.
We had all sorts of fun on that day, too.
Most especially, doing the walk that was supposedly trending.
We had so much fun that night that we told other family members to recreate it the next day.
So natural these two!
Missing Tito Paking.
One of my favorite photos of that day!
I particularly love how we laughed our heart so much this day!
Spontaneous beach trip with cousins just because it doesn't happen every day that we are complete.
the best of us all in one photograph - our pride and joy!
our little ladies
thank you, Char for the stories!
Work was always on the way every day, but I committed myself to putting as much as I could into a healthy lifestyle, so I committed to going to the gym as much as I could. Apparently, I do not have photos to share.
Something new to try at Marta's. The Ube Halaya Pancake with Queso.
Re-purposed the old fiber pots that weren't used anymore. Hung it on an Avocado tree by the parking lot to create a warmer vibe that lights up perfectly at night.
One cozy sunset afternoon at work. Yes, at work! I am so lucky.
At work, we were all excited and also anxious for our cousin’s upcoming wedding – but oh boy, oh boy, it turned out oh-so-fine! Thank you, Dear God, for the successful turnout. I believe that success comes from hard work, team effort, and much prayer. Prayers that you gently whisper every day at the workplace, even on the go, a prayer is still a love letter to God.
Fresh chamomile flowers.
We also had another wedding – a beautiful one where the groom offered to sing for his bride. The bride was in tears, and so was I.
The only photo that was perfect before the heavy downpour.
Then came our school’s Foundation Day. So proud of all my children!
My little prince!
The New Year Run, which we all worked so hard for. Thank you, Dear Lord, for bringing it all together with the right people!
Cannot believe it's been 25 years since high school.
The beautiful sunsets remind me that there are more “red days” ahead, but with the weather so cool lately, who am I to complain?
Golden hour in front of me every day.
Finally, ending January with a trip to Manila for Julia's check up.
Please do say a prayer for my brave girl.
This photo is taken after hearing mass. The homily reminded me of an Instagram post I made before. It settled my anxious heart right then and there.
Thank you, January!
Thank you, Dear God!
love and light,
Rica
