TWELVE.

Beginning and Ending. I like contemplating about this pattern as the old year draws to a close and another year about to begin. Growing up, I documented my life in a fancy journal I would buy for myself on Christmas. I was often asked by my mom to write down the things I am thankful for for the entire year and the things I dream to be/have for the incoming year. To this day, I am still keeping journals. And I see this blog as an extension to my journal writing, only less private. Although this blog only contains my “edited” entries, where my not-so- private words are seen, it truly captures the highlights of my year.

At the moment, let me make a quick look back at my most cherished blog posts throughout the year, my “TWELVE”;  later,  I’ll start thinking about my fresh visions for the new year that is about to begin.

This will always be my favorite story. Although it was published on a newspaper few years ago, its landing on Shining Mom this year makes me still count it on the list. I love how I was able to document that very first time my little boy locked his eyes on mine.

This post is an inspiring interview with one of the most sought-after lifestyle photographers in the Metro, Ging Lorenzo. Ging never fails to capture my heart with her beautiful pictures that each tells a story.

A pure-soul letter I had given to my husband which I’ve unexpectedly found the courage to  share it with you on the blog. Honestly, I feel uncomfortable being mushy online; this letter got me out of my shell.

Documenting Kyle’s first visit to Baguio is something  meaningful to me. I studied in UP Baguio and taking my son to where I consider my “third home”  is Just special.

I will always remember how Kyle joyously sang “Oh we are flying in an airplane…” on his first airplane ride. 🙂

Rica and Sergio’s wedding reflected how their love can weather a sudden downpour! It rained during their  lakeside wedding ceremony, just when they were exchanging their vows, but that did not stop them from having a fun celebration! 🙂

This is just a simple post that happened in one ordinary day. The day when my little boy first planted munngo, his first ever experiment. 🙂

This year has been a party year for the Macalinaos. We got invited to several parties, both really big and really simple ones that we all truly enjoyed. And Channelle’s party was a special one.  Special not only because of the fun we had, but also because of the story behind the party theme. After 6 years of stormy celebrations, a colorful rainbow-themed celebration made her 7th year a truly magical and meaningful one.

10.  Exploring Photosynthesis
I like incorporating resources for moms on this blog. Why do I love this post? This has been the most-searched and visited so far!haha.

 

I dream of becoming a party organizer. This entry spills out my love for party-planning!haha. 

 

I sincerely thank you for being with me this year. Honestly, I still can’t believe that this blog is building readers from all places and I still can’t believe that it has gone this far. Not THAT far yet… but from where it started, back when I only had Alex as my ultimate reader and follower, it has indeed gotten a long way. Thank you for your emails and  comments my dearest readers. Thank you for sticking with me this year, thank you. You give me voice in my every writing.

Happy New Year to all of you shining moms and dads, and to all my relatives, classmates and berks who constantly drop by to give me some love!  Guess how much I love you guys? As the Big Nutbrown Hare says… “To the moon, and back!”  😉

Cheers to a shining year ahead!