Today, I turn a year older — and a little wiser, a little stronger, and a lot more grateful.
I woke up this morning with the simple joy of celebrating my birthday with my family. The laughter, the food, the overflowing energy during our signature Happy Birthday song — these are the moments that make me feel deeply blessed.
But it wasn’t always like this.
I remember a birthday when I wasn’t home…
I celebrated with people who made sure the day still felt special — but deep inside, I longed for one thing: to celebrate with my complete family.
To be with Mami, my aunts, my relatives…
To blow the candle while everyone sings our loud and energetic birthday song.
That experience made me realize something important: hindi ko talaga kaya maging OFW. I have so much admiration for Filipinos who spend years away from their families to work and provide. Their strength and sacrifice are something I deeply honor.
So today, simply being together means everything to me.
And then, there’s the quiet part of my heart.
This is my first birthday without a call from Dadsoy.
I cried again this morning… and tonight as I write this.
No more “Saan tayo kakain?”
No invite to eat or feast somewhere he knows has the best food.
No big, warm greeting — “Happy birthday, Atsoy!” — that always made me feel like his princess.
The world didn’t pause today, but I did — for a moment.
I closed my eyes and imagined his voice.
I remembered his laugh.
And I whispered, “I miss you, Dadsoy.”
Loss doesn’t take away the celebration, but it reminds us why we cherish it more.
What this birthday taught me
Every year is a blessing.
Every meal shared is a memory.
Every birthday song, no matter how off-key, is love in its loudest form.
Every person still here is a gift I’ll never take for granted.
Life isn’t perfect — but God is good. Always. 🙏❤️
So here’s to another year of:
✨ Purpose
✨ Courage
✨ Healing
✨ And overflowing gratitude
Happy birthday to me.
A heart that remembers. A heart that celebrates.
A heart that keeps choosing joy. ❤️🎂
And Dadsoy… I know you’re celebrating with me from Heaven. 👼✨
Life With No Regrets 
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