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[thewanderingbelly]

Boracay 2024

Lately, I’ve noticed a shift in how I capture memories during trips. I don’t take as many pictures as I used to. Maybe it’s a sign of getting older—learning to savor the moment with my own eyes rather than through my phone’s lens. Still, I want to share the few photos I did take during my recent beach trip. While I often use this blog to spill out my random thoughts, I also want it to reflect…

[thewanderingbelly]

Validation

I just stopped seeking validation and it felt liberating. I’ve spent so long searching for myself in the eyes of others, as if their approval could tell me who I was. Every time I wasn’t noticed, every time no one showed interest, it felt like a quiet confirmation that I wasn’t enough. Not enough to turn heads, not enough to be pursued. And with that silence, my confidence would shrink a…

[thewanderingbelly]

The Grammar of Us

[thewanderingbelly]

L

How many times have we told each other why we live in different parts of the world? You are at 37.7412° N, 25.6756° W, where the ocean’s waves whisper secrets and the sunsets paint the sky with hues of orange and pink. I am at 12.8797° N, 121.7740° E, surrounded by tropical warmth and each day greeted with the sound of bustling streets.  I always think of this. Perhaps, it would be fun and…

[thewanderingbelly]

The Fraud of Happily Single

Lately, I’ve found myself enveloped in a cloud of loneliness, frustration, confusion, and anxiety. These feelings have brought to the forefront a deep yearning I’ve carried for a long time—a longing for love from a man. This isn’t just about wanting a partner; it’s about craving a deep, meaningful connection with someone who can share my life with me. As someone who’s been single for what feels…

[thewanderingbelly]

The Art of Doing

Ever stuck in a cycle of prepping instead of doing the thing? Sounds relatable? I’m guilty. I’ve discovered that my procrastination often stems from unnecessary rituals. For example, I’ll meticulously write a to-do list filled with motivational battle statements like “I can do this.” I’ll spend time finding the cutest notebook, the perfect pen, or even highlighters to make the grind…

[thewanderingbelly]

The King's Affection

I wasn’t supposed to write anything today, but after hearing the OST of one of my favorite K-dramas, I felt compelled to pen down my thoughts and share my very first post in my K-drama collection reviews. I’ve been a fan of K-drama since 2005, though I have to admit, period dramas were never really my thing. I often found them boring and skipped many of them simply because they weren’t to my…

[thewanderingbelly]

Someday

Someday knows that there’s no substitute for hard work. While talent and opportunity play their roles, it’s the relentless effort that truly paves the way to success. Someday agrees that it’s about showing up every day, even when motivation wanes. Someday recognizes the stories of achievers across various fields. From athletes to entrepreneurs, the common thread is their dedication to putting in…

[thewanderingbelly]

Not a Swiftie, but

I’m not a Swiftie, but if there’s one artist whose songwriting truly mirrors the human experience, it’s Taylor Swift. Her ability to weave words and music vividly iis remarkable. She never comes across as pretentious or overly flashy about her lyrical prowess. Instead, her approach is subtle yet powerful, with every lyric hitting home. Whenever I need to buckle down and focus on a tedious task,…

[thewanderingbelly]

5 Reasons Why You Should Read the Book "Show Your Work" by Austin Kleon

Francis Bacon once said, “Some books are to be tasted, others to be swallowed, and some few to be chewed and digested; that is, some books are to be read only in parts; others to be read, but not curiously, and some few are to be read wholly, and with diligence and attention.” For me, Austin Kleon’s “Show Your Work” is meant to be digested, especially for those in the creative…

[thewanderingbelly]

Finding my path

There are so many things I’ve wanted to achieve, countless dreams and goals that have danced in my mind. This overwhelming list of aspirations often leaves me stuck in one place, unable to fully achieve anything or even pursue things with the dedication they deserve. I envy those who already know what they want, who have a clear vision of their goals and the drive to work hard for them. They…

[thewanderingbelly]

Hope Every Day

Today, I woke up early after a long night of restlessness. My mind has been racing with thoughts of my problems, which have been weighing me down for the past three months. It’s been a cycle of going to bed early but not being able to put my mind to rest, as I keep replaying my poor choices and fear of missing out that led me to this state. The realization that the consequences of my actions…

[thewanderingbelly]

Why I Gave Up Notion and Went Back to My Trusty Notebook

Notion is everywhere. If you’re into productivity, you’ve probably heard about it. According to their website, Notion is a single space where you can think, write, and plan. It claims to be a tool that can capture thoughts, manage projects, or even run an entire company — all tailored exactly the way you want. For a while, I thought it would be my productivity savior too. I follow a lot of…

[thewanderingbelly]

Finding Comfort in Sinigang

My pork ribs sinigang. There’s something incredibly special about sinigang that goes beyond its tangy, savory taste. It’s more than just a dish.  Sinigang has been my go-to dish for as long as I can remember. Growing up, it was a staple in our household. My mom would prepare it with so much love, and I’d eagerly wait by the kitchen, watching her skillfully mix the ingredients. The ritual of…

[thewanderingbelly]

A reminder for myself that imperfect starts can always be improved. 

[thewanderingbelly]

Keep calm and curry on. :) I can't be calm now because I finally made this! Haha Here's my take on Katsu Curry Rice. I did it! Shems! Kinikilig ako. #homemade #homecooking #katsu #katsucurryrice #pinoyfoodie #kitchenprojects #meal #thewanderingbelly (at Antipolo, Rizal) https://www.instagram.com/p/B_wbLS8lBc3/?igshid=148spglj4b40r

[thewanderingbelly]

How do you like your spaghetti? Hmm,mine will always be more hotdogs and more cheese. 🤤 #pinoyfoodie ##pinoyspaghetti #pinoyspaghettistyle #homecooking #homecookedmeal https://www.instagram.com/p/B_qtYcElagM/?igshid=ct1fn53k5jwh