This was one of the biggest fears I’ve ever faced. The idea of traveling so far felt too scary, too risky. Home became my hideout, my safe space, my comfort. And now, being far from family... that’s the hardest sacrifice of all.

It’s getting serious. Like, for real serious. But what a life, right? Another day, another journey unlocked. 😁 Let me tell you about my first Manila trip... with a super duper huge maleta. Unpaid? So what? I had to take it. Flight was at 10:30 PM, but I left early. Had errands to run that had nothing to do with my trip.

And here’s God’s timing: After 5 months, my cousin’s medical assistance arrived. If I left without processing it, it would’ve been so hard to claim — it’s under my name. So I dropped my maleta at my friend’s boarding house first. Less hassle.

After running around, I finally got my cousin’s medical assistance. Thank God — it’ll help a lot with their expenses.

Since it was already lunch, we grabbed food. Pork and cucumber juice. The servings were so big, we will be still full ‘til dinner.

After eating, we rushed home to rest and prepare. I had to go to my friend’s place next. A pricey cab or a cheap jeepney fare but needed adjustments? I chose jeepney even hard and crowded considering my luggage. Good thing my huge maleta wasn’t heavy so I could lift it. Then the traffic hit. What a real disaster. Thought I’d never make it, but after forever, I reached North Terminal.

30 minutes later, we made it to Silay Airport and met my workmate. It's still early, so we had time for dinner. But my stomach was acting up, so I just got ube bread. Pricey, but worth it - deliciousoooo!😋

We checked in at 7:30 PM. Boarding pass, luggage, all done and thankfully admitted charr. It was too early.😂 We waited almost 4 hours because the flight was delayed. We departed at 12 midnight, and arrived in Manila at exactly 1 AM, but we had to wait because the captain said there was something in front of the airplane and we couldn’t proceed.

I still couldn’t believe it. I’m finally in Manila. After sitting for so long, time for the next ride.

Another bus to Bay 4. Then the agency van picked us up outside the airport. I was shocked that there were a lot of people inside the van with the caretaker of the accommodation center.

Turned out they were going to the market to buy stuff for the center. We waited inside the van while they were busy doing errands. We were exempted because we were given a chance to rest. I appreciate it.

Exhausted, hungry, sleepy — all at once. The ride to the accommodation was a bit far, but we made it. Safe and sound. Thank God.

That’s it for now. More stories soon from my new home here. Hehe. Lovelots 😘

_Emmin◉⁠‿⁠◉msss