We go way back

Is there anything better than an intimate and deeper connection to someone? How mind-blowing it is finding out that through the years that bond continuously flourishes?

I've had the privilege of spending some time with a few of my closest friends last week. We haven't spent this much time together since high school. We stayed up until early in the morning and talked about all sorts of things from high school memories to things we haven't really talked about with anyone. We laughed a lot and cried some (Oooh yeeeahhh). We drank and partied on consecutive nights (which I haven't done like ever? Man, I missed dancing!). We pigged out. One of the best weeks ever!





As cheesy as this sounds, there was something in this spontaneous trip that brought us even closer. I can't put into words the overwhelming and happy feeling I felt that it just warms my heart so much (Okay, I'd been told that I repeatedly verbalised this when I had few too many. Hee.) We got to know more about each other. We've known each other since we were barely teenagers and it's exciting to know that there's still a lot to discover. And through the years, we also developed a better understanding of each other. So even if I was running on 3-5 hours of sleep (not ideal, I know) and relying heavily on cups of coffee at work (which I haven't done in a long while), I wouldn't trade those precious moments for anything in the world.

Thank you, guys, for making time to visit and for celebrating my birthday with me in advance! Shoutout to my brother for also making time to hangout with the semi-titas/semi-bagets. Oh, I love you. Can I just marry you guys instead? Haha! See you soon!

Long Distance Relationships

During one random conversation with a friend yesterday, I mentioned that one of the three main reasons why I still visit the Philippines is because of my friends, especially the ones since high school. I remember saying to her that these people have a special part in my life. It's next to family, if not like family.

We basically grew up and spent our awkward years together - that's basically more than half of our lives. We annoyed each other over pathetic things when we were younger. We laugh at them now when we look back. We shared too many memories from good down to shitty. We witnessed how each one of us matured and became the person we are today. Even if I moved away, we still remain in touch and I am so glad for that.





Hence, I try as much as I can to be present on the special occasions in their lives (It's hard to say no, too!). Aside from being here for them "in spirit" and being one call or message away, I try to offer my "presence" or to be present when I can. I try to value and uphold my friendships, especially those that are worth keeping and continuing. You don't throw away that kind of relationship.





As for my friends from university, since most of us are already based overseas, we try to meet up if our flights to the Philippines are around the same time.





One of the things that I realized from moving overseas is how your circle of friends become smaller but very significant. You will reach that point where you just lose out of touch with some of the people you used to be in good terms with because you no longer share the same interests, life happened and you grew apart or sometimes, it is what it is. On the other hand, you will also learn who are the ones worth keeping.

So, thank you, guys, for being there since day one and despite the distance. For all the love and support. I know I don't say this often (because it goes without saying, really) but sometimes, it's good to let you know once in a while. I love you and I miss you all! Cannot wait to see you soon!

       

P.S. I hope we do not become boring adults! That thought is kind of scary. Hahaha!

(Also, sinong extra cheesy tonight? Hahaha!)