Just a weird dream and positive news!
How are you, my dear read friends? I hope your day today was better than yesterday.
I just had a dream that read just made one of its best features ever and that's gonna be an NFT for the articles with the most upvotes, writer who has the most increased numbers of subscribers within a month, and the article who has the most or highest engagement. It's gonna be an awesome treat for the winners. I know it might not happen or not gonna happen sooner but having a read NFT woud be so cool, right?
Sorry about that, I am a daydreamer.
Since I published my last article all I think about is my dreams and goals. Maybe I am excited for the New Year. And one of my dreams is getting back to old normal pre-covid.
I am afraid it might not come true after a week or two but I've just read from the page of an epidemiologist (I am following on Facebook) that there is a plan to create a pan-coronavirus "super" vaccine. The vaccines we have right now kind of weaken hence the need for a booster. Israel even thinks of administering a 4th dose for its 60+ year old citizens. Some companies like Moderna and Pzifer want an Omicron focused vaccine. And because of the mutations, some vaccine might no longer be that effective against new variants hence the need of a super vaccine. It is a vaccine that can fight against all variants. It will prevent any future outbreaks and coronavirus pandemics. The way to do this is through the antibodies created by those people who got a unique response to the virus after having covid or the vaccine or both. There is only a few of them so there is an urgency to determine who this people are. Wow, we are looking for super mutants. It might take some time but I believe it will become successful. There is hope!
But I do believe that having this virus is Earth's way to bring balance to the world. It is a message that the world is overpopulated, dirty, dying, and it needs to heal. These microorganisms exist long before us. We may have been way out of balance which badly affects the ecosystem. I dream that mankind has realized that Mother Nature is fierce, she can bring us down to our knees by just giving us an enemy we cannot see with our naked eyes. May the pandemic humbled us. And may our dream to live without wearing masks again will come true.
I am editing and finishing this article while my loved ones are all asleep. The holidays kept us all busy and tired. I wish to really read a lot of articles but my hands are so tied, I am sorry my friends. I will catch up with the rest of you when the holidays are over.
To every one especially my sponsors and subscribers: Please keep safe, wherever you are and I wish you all a Happy New Year.
Love,
Glessa
The lead image was from Unsplash.com and the New Year image was from newyear2020s.com
The rest of the content is mine.
December 28, 2021
My New Year's to-do list!
**Hello, my dear read friends!** Christmas has gone away in a blink of an eye and in a few days' time, we will be welcoming 2022. Are you ready? Me, I am not sure lol.
Do you have your New Year's Resolutions already? Mine? Not yet. Instead of saying they are my resolution, I am just gonna go by a "to-do" list so the pressure won't be that much.
So here are my plans for 2022:
Lose weight
Please don't laugh at me. My belly fat is no longer cute anymore. They are no longer baby fats! It's the reason why I try to walk outside with Saoirse every afternoon because my body is aching for some lovin'. I know it when it has reached the limit of sweets and cholesterol. How about you, do you listen to your body?
Have a part-time job
I am already happy with being here on read and I don't think I'm gonna stop blogging sooner but when the face-to-face classes are back, we will need to think of Bam's allowances and project expenses. I want to have a part-time job so we won't have to worry about where to get money for such stuff. And I want to start paying the loans with SSS and Pag-ibig.
Apply for immigration to Finland or Norway
My dream country is Talinn, Estonia but I like Finland's system of education so I am gonna try my luck if we can go there. I want my kids to have the best education so they will be equipped with knowledge and have a fighting chance when they grow up. Then after that, we can move to Estonia. It's like shooting the moon, but I wanna give it a try. Who knows?
Travel locally
I wanna travel somewhere in the Philippines with my family. Maybe we can go to Boracay, since I already knew some friends who can help us out, it will not be too difficult to go there. I don't wanna grow old without experiencing Bora. If not Bora, then another beach resort, maybe Tingloy.
Pay my debts off
I already stated that I wanna pay my debts and I am serious. I don't want to live a life with financial issues so I am going to do my best to pay my debts. Aside from that, I want to prepare for my retirement. Not that I will stop working, I just want to save something so I can have my own money when I grow old. I don't wanna rely on my kids. They need to have a life of their own.
Have a hair color or beauty treatment
I want to have a new look, I will either go blonde or red, whatever color it is that is compatible with my skin color. I do feeling in the saying that if you feel good about yourself, you will do better. I owe myself some pampering and TLC.
Learn a new skill or enhance my skill
I studied Google Analytics before and I was already on its Business level. I just don't have a lot of time anymore for now but I will either continue it or learn a new skill. Urggh, I still haven't finished my Javascript course. I remember going to Zuitt to apply for a scholarship, I made it and I was the only one who was offered the study-now pay-later scholarship but we didn't have the 8,000 pesos as downpayment before the classes began and the venue was far from Caloocan so I had to discontinue. Sigh, it was an opportunity of a lifetime. Anyways, I will have new opportunities soon.
I just wish that I will be able to fulfill most of these goals, I would be very happy if that's going to be the case. Do you have your goals for this coming 2022, my friend? What are those? Share and let's chat!
To everyone especially to my sponsors and subscribers: THANK YOU VERY MUCH!
Anyways, I wish you will have a great day and have a joyous holidays!
Love,
Glessa
The lead image was from Unsplash.com and the New Year image was from newyear2020s.com
The rest of the content is mine unless stated otherwise
December 27,2021
My heart was full as well as my tummy this Christmas!
How are you, my dear read friends? I didn't publish an article yesterday because we got too busy and tired.
I hope your Christmas went well just like mine. And for those who were affected by the typhoon, my thoughts and prayers are with you.
Everyone in the house was excited about the gift opening so we decided to do it after the kids are done with their dinner. We actually opened some of the kids' gifts a week ago: Saoirse and Cassie got their educational bus toys, Bam had her diary and her cat headset. There was a commotion in the house after that and I am glad it was settled.
My brother-in-law worked his ass off to give the kids a grand gift: a swing and slide. And the poor living room is now our playground. There were a lot of toys for the kids: from doctor set, barbeque toys, walker, firetruck, etc. The living room was so topsy turvy and we had fun watching the kids having the time of their lives.
We didn't cook a lot but we were very full. My mom-in-law cooked lasagna and made crema de Fruta, my brother-in-law cooked chicken. We also have buko salad. The ref couldn't accommodate everything. My contribution was the chocolate for the kids. We filled their stockings with sweets while they were dressing up.
**Our handa**
If you look at our picture, you might think we are rich. But to be honest, we are doing our best to provide for our family. We love spoiling the kids though. This year may have been difficult and sad but I am happy that we are complete, my brother-in-law survived a heart attack and covid. It's the first Christmas without my mother but I am trying hard to cope up, to live with it, one day at a time.
I am grateful that I continued writing here on read, I can now buy diapers and vitamins and gifts for my kids! I am so happy I won in a challenge that I will remember forever and I feel blessed with the assistance given by the government. It was really hard for me, psychologically and financially, to think and worry about how to provide for my kids. Now, I have a few weeks or months of relief.
I am also glad that my family in Mindanao is safe from Odette. I haven't watched the news but I saw it from my social media feed. I know we can bounce again from this disaster- we already proved it before. My heart and prayers are with those who have lost a family member and/or their property.
We didn't have a party in the house, in fact, most of us were already asleep at midnight. I only waited for the clock to strike at 12:00 am and I kissed my kids and greeted my partner. And this morning, we had grilled pork and buttered shrimp with cheese. Then Bam and her Tito Jojo baked some cupcakes.
That's our simple and happy Christmas celebration. My heart as well as my tummy was full. And I wish you had a blast.
Merry Christmas again,
Glessa
All images and content were mine unless otherwise stated.
December 25, 2021
MERRY CHRISTMAS TO EVERYONE!! FROM PHILIPPINES WITH LOVE!
My favorite Christmas songs of all time!
How are you, my dear read friends? It's the time of the year to be merry and jolly!
Christmas didn't mean a lot to me until I become a parent. I learned to value my family, especially my mother and daughter because it is all about celebrating it with the family or close friends and renewal of relationships, of hope. Though I was far away from my family while I was working, I always did my best to spoil them.
And along with the holidays are the Christmas songs that lift my spirit up whenever I am down.
My friends, here are my favorite Christmas songs of all time:
**My idea of a perfect Christmas by Jose Mari Chan**
I love this song. The melody is perfect for its title. It sounds simple but when you intently listen to it, you will feel its depth. It will remind you what makes Christmas, Christmas. I sing this song to Saoirse most of the time when I put her to sleep.
**Pasko Na Sinta Ko by Gary Valenciano**
This song breaks my heart especially with mama now being gone. It's full of soul and emotions. It makes me realize that Christmas is different when a loved one is no longer around. Although it is a love song, the impact is still the same when you lose a family or a friend. I cried the first time I sang it after my mother's death. Forgive me for being emotional, it's the first Christmas without her and it's never gonna be the same again.
**Give love on Christmas Day by Josi Mari and Sheryl Chan**
Don't bully Josi Mari Chan because he has personal issues. We all feel Christmas whenever September 1 hits because of this song. Who doesn't wanna give love on Christmas Day with this piece of music? It reminds me that whatever we have, small or big, as long as we give with love, it means a lot to those who receive our acts of kindness.
**Oh, Holy Night by Hillsong Worship**
I admit I do not know all of the lyrics of this song but whenever I hear this, I remember that fateful night when Christ was born. I am not religious, I am more of a spiritual person but there's something to this song. It gives me chills. It makes me feel good that despite the chaos of this world, we still have hope. And we cling to that hope no matter how small it is, our hope is then tied with faith. And they give us the strength to keep on living.
**Jingle Bells by Coco Melon**
Yup, this one's new to my list. I listen to a lot of Coco Melon all day, thanks to Baby Saoirse. This one's fun to watch because the Coco Melon kids are dancing! Saoirse tries to imitate the dance steps and she doesn't like it when I dance or sing lol. She's like a "manang" like her "manong" dudey. The song makes me wanna go around the neighborhood for caroling lol. It's a happy song.
I don't have any Christmas songs that I enjoy much but you can suggest a nice song for me to listen to. I might like it and add it to my list :) And I'm not sure if I will publish an article tomorrow, I am excited about the opening of the gifts :D
My friends, I know the past 2 years have been so critical, so challenging. Let us be thankful and grateful for how blessed we are with our good health, food on our table, roof above our heads, that we are safe and sound. Those are enough to celebrate or just utter words of gratitude to God. It doesn't matter if you celebrate Christmas or not. I think God will appreciate a minute of your time to talk to Him.
**To everyone, THANK YOU VERY MUCH AND MERRY CHRISTMAS!**
Love,
Glessa and family
Lead image was from Unsplash.com and Merry Christmas image was from Giphy.com
The rest of the content is mine.
December 24, 2021
Allow yourself to be a kid once in a while!
**How are you doing my dear friends?** I bet most of us know what read is back on track! I am so happy and relieved.
This afternoon, my 1.5-year-old had a tantrum. She wanted to go out but we denied her request because it was raining. She was crying so freaking hard. I knew that she was also sleepy hence the added crankiness. But when she started to drink milk from me, she started to calm down until we both fell asleep. And when she woke up, it was as if nothing happened.
When my daughter lied to me about washing her feet, I reminded her that I didn't like it. She understood that I had the right to be mad at her.
I realized that if we sometimes think like kids, just to think simply and not overcomplicate things we can save a lot of heartaches and relationships.
And I wish we allow ourselves to be kids once in a while because kids:
Love deeply and unconditionally
Kids love deeply. They do not hold grudges and show genuine affection to those they love. They don't give conditions on why they love, they just simply love. If we can only be like them, our relationships with our partners or spouses could last longer or forever and would not be so complicated. We won't have a lot of issues and we could enjoy every moment with our loved ones.
Forgive easily and move on
Kids, no matter how big the mistake or wrongdoing that was done to them still forgive. They forget and act as nothing happens. I don't mean we allow people to keep doing the same fault to us or abuse us but look at the kids, they do not dwell too much on the negative experience.
Are kind and hopeful
They are just naturally kind and help without asking anything in return. Perhaps when they do, they innocently ask for it, unlike most adults. They also hold a fountain of hope in their hearts, they'd hope again heartbreak after heartbreak. Look at a child who just learns how to walk, she or he does not stop after failing to stand up or after falling from taking a step, instead, she or he keeps on doing it over and over again.
Are happy with the simplest things in life
Give them a toy, or a flower, or a portion of food, you will see these kids beaming with happiness. Some are choosy, yes, but most of them are not especially those who live in provinces. As we grow older, we set the standards of happiness. If we don't get what we want, we become sad, bitter, grumpy, and act like kids. Let us be joyful and playful. Let us not forgive that the Universe will give us our desires when we are open to receiving and that we are thankful for the little things that we already have. Do we deserve to have the bigger things in life if we aren't grateful for the small things? The fountain of youth is having a child-like heart because inner happiness glows from the inside, my friends.
Allow yourself to be a kid once in a while, adulting is hard, isn't it? Just don't be too stiff. Loosen your shoulders, try to smile. Look at the sun, it shines on everyone. Be silly, be playful, be joyful, be like a kid! Trust me, it won't hurt.
I hope I imparted something wonderful and positive for you today, my friends. I would like to apologize if I could not tip that much, I have withdrawn my money because I panicked when read was acting up. I shall catch up with you in the next few days. I am excited for Christmas, though I am kind of tired with all the cleaning lol. I usually want to clean before the year ends because I feel like the energy for the New Year should be fresh and new. How about you, are you all set for the holidays?
I gotta end my article here because I want to continue watching "The 100" on Netflix.
**To everyone especially my sponsors and 108 (You gotta be kidding me!) subscribers: Thank you very, very much!**
Love,
Glessa
All the images except the Merry Christmas were from Unsplash.com and the Merry Christmas was from Giphy.com
The rest of the content is mine.
December 22, 2021
Yes, this is the best thing that has happened to me, next to seeing my Saoirse so happy with playing bubbles.
I miss you so much read!!
Santa, here is my Christmas wish list for mysef!
Hello my dear read friends, it has been so long since I have published here because I had to take care of my amelioration and now, there seems to be an issue with opening read on different browsers.
Seems like read works on duckduckgo mobile. I tried to open the platform on Brave but it did not let me. Google security issues, perhaps?
Anyways, let's just forget about that for now and let's just talk about Christmas.
I can't remember if I have prayed for Santa to give me gifts when I was a kid.
And who says adults couldn't ask from Santa? I believe I have been a good mom and I deserve some treats.
Santa, if you are reading my blog right now. Here are my wishes that I want to receive not only for Christmas but the whole year round:
Guitar
I missed playing the guitar because it is my stress reliever. It would be good to strum the guitar again and learn plucking. It's gonna be a good "me" time for me rather than being overwhelmed about choosing what to watch on Netflix.
Chocolates
I am a chocolate lover but I don't eat it most of the time. I prefer dark chocolate because it's healthier. Could you give me a year of chocolate supply? And I prefer to eat M&Ms, Cadbury Fruits and Nuts, and any other chocolate brands you want me to try.
Cake
I mean, a wedding cake. Though I am not sure when my wedding is. I want a 3-layered white cake covered with different kinds of edible flowers. It should be moist chocolate inside. I can't wait to slice it, Santa.
Staycation
I want a staycation. It doesn't matter where as long as the resort is near the beach or has a swimming pool. I would be happy even if I stay in Tingloy, that place was beautiful. I won't get tired swimming and walking on the shore. And I'd love to meditate early in the morning on its white sand as well.
Bath tub
If I am sad or stressed, I would want to just stay in the tub with some sentimental music and bubbles. Killing time with a good book would be awesome too. Though I know this dream may take some time, I will be ecstatic knowing you'll give this to me.
1 BCH
I just wanna have atleast 1 BCH that I can HODL so I can be happy when the BCH goes to the moon. I feel like an official member of the ClubbrokeBCH because my BCH always goes away but I am fine with that.
Fix read
My last wish on the list was the 1 BCH but since I want everything to go back to how it was used to be- please allow us to open read in our normal browsers and gadgets again. It is weird to edit my blog from a phone really. I am crossing fingers and legs here. Thank you.
I am not used to using duckduckgo mobile so please bear with me my dear friends. I do wish read's gonna be okay on Chrome pc or laptop soon.
And yup, I got amelioration after 3 exhausting days!
To everyone especially my kind sponsors and 107 awesome subscribers: THANK YOU VERY MUCH!
We are going out for a walk soon. We are running away from Christmas rush lol...
And thank you for the sponsorship renewal sis @FarmGirl and sir Ed @TengoLoTodo and for the prize...I did feel like I won a million! You just don't know how ecstatic I am feeling!
Merry Christmas!
Glessa
All images were from Unsplash.com
The rest of the content is mine unless otherwise stated.
December 21, 2021
Gimme a break ekekek!
**G'day, mates!**
I have been so serious about creating my articles in the past few days (char). I am just drained, emotionally and physically chasing my 16k lol. I need to have a breather so I'm gonna go random.
Before I do, I just wanna share the burden or blessing of being an empath. You know when some random people stick with you like a magnet. I am not complaining about helping them, but feeling what they're feeling, knowing their burden bothers me. I know I gotta shield myself from absorbing that kind of negative energy. Sigh...
Anyways, let me start answering these random questions, can't I?
If you were offered the position of mayor of your city, would you take it?
Yes, I will. It's a challenge to be a mayor, there are lots of things that needed to be accomplished at the end of the day. I'd be happy to be a part of something bigger than myself and being a mayor would be nice. Like recently, there are a lot of issues with the Social Amelioration Program. I would be able to apply what I've learned in Computer Science- that is enhancing, designing, or creating systems. I can be a great help in implementing better and more organized payouts. I can't bear seeing those elder people walking in the middle of the hot sun going to and fro.
What school activities do you or did you participate in?
I had several such as Investigatory projects, Quiz bees, spelling bee, cheer dance, pop dance, extemporaneous speech, journalism, etc. I did win on some, lost on some but had the best experience ever. I was most of the time, exempted from my classes and I got allowances. I loved it.
What’s the biggest personal change you’ve ever made?
Discovering self-love and self-worth, not pleasing everybody anymore, and learning how to say "no".
Would you dress in drag for $25? Why not?
I haven't tried dressing in drag, I want the experience and the fun, so bring it on. Perhaps I'd go for Lady Gaga. She seemed so real, so raw, and carefree. I wanna go Gaga!
How old is the oldest cell in your body?
I think it is 1000 years old. I have been through a lot in life so I guess the oldest cell is already so stressed out and so old already.
Do frogs have ears?
I believe they do, they are just too small. Have you seen a frog's ears?
If you were a worm, how long would you be?
I want to be just a tiny worm so no one would notice me and try to kill me.
Have you ever collected stickers that are on fruits?
Yes, I did from apples and oranges. I thought they were cool but they were thrown away.
On a scale from 1-5, how afraid of dark are you?
I used to be very afraid of the dark, so that would be 5 but when I walked in the dark alone when I was 12, I conquered that fear.
What is the strangest thing you’ve ever eaten?
Are you going to judge me? I was just a kid, I tasted, the booger and the ear wax. At least now I know how they tasted and I can teach my daughter that they tasted so gross that she shouldn't even try doing it even in her wildest dreams. The strangest thing or food I have eaten would be "dinuguan" Or pork blood stew but when my Biology teacher explained to me what microorganisms are found in a pig's blood, I stopped eating it.
What’s the dumbest thing you’ve ever cried about?
Sus, tinatanong pa ba yan? Of course nagpakatanga ako sa pagibig so I cried about my love life. Have you ever tried being stupidly in love? It's where all your logic and reasons are gone with the wind.
I definitely will give you more inspiring articles in the next few days and I will catch up with commenting and upvoting. I am just so knackered at the moment. And I hope you guys, in the south, are safe and sound. Let us pray for better weather in the next few days because Christmas is almost knocking at our doors.
To everyone, especially my kind and generous sponsors and 105 (Wow) subscribers- THANK YOU VERY MUCH!
P.S.
May BCH rise again so we could have a Merrier Christmas.
Keep safe,
Glessa
The lead image was from Unsplash.com and the second was from Giphy.com
The rest of the content is mine unless otherwise stated (Thanks to the Random Question Generator for the questions).
December 18, 2021
Know the truth!
**How are you my read friends?** I hope the people in the south are safe against the typhoon. I just received a notification from Shopee that packages might be delayed due to the bad weather condition.
Anyways, a lot of things happened yesterday. I went to the payout site supposed to receive an amelioration from the government but the payout master was sick so we went to the barangay hall instead for the verification of our documents. They said it will be better to be verified first so we won't have to do it again and just wait for the payout. That was a good idea, so despite the hunger and tiredness, and the need to pee, I endured all of those. I was victorious.
I just noticed that some of the people in the area would rather believe in the hype in social media than to really know what is going on about the amelioration. They complained about not getting their money right away. But the barangay representatives explained that since the Social Services will give 16,000 pesos of money to each beneficiary, they had to be strict with the requirements. Fair enough.
I have observed that the citizens weren't aware of the documents that they needed to photocopy or bring like the IDs and the photocopied versions. Why would you give someone an expired ID in the hopes she'll give you 16k? Are you ready to give your original documents and not just the duplicated ones?
Sometimes, people complain a lot, whine a lot without really knowing the truth. Just because it's what the people are telling on social media does not mean it's the truth. It wasn't fair for those who are in the Social Services Department and the barangay to be judged as corrupt when the beneficiaries are not doing their part. They just want easy money, tsk.
Another incident happened at home. It was just a misunderstanding between my sis-in-law and her dad when she also included my partner in her rant. I guess she was also blinded by her recent status in the house as our breadwinner and has forgotten the sacrifices her elder brother did when she was just starting her family. She forgot the truth.
I guess we are all like that. When we are blinded by our emotions, our judgment becomes clouded and we forgot all the logic and reason behind a situation. Let us know the truth. Let us search for the facts and judge based on the truth. The truth might hurt, might not be comfortable, might not be to our advantage, but that is the truth. We should try to live with it. It might be harder to swallow because our pride is bigger than the truth sometimes, but just try to do it.
Know the truth before you decide
Know the truth before you speak
Know the truth before you conclude
Know the truth before you plan
Know the truth before anything else
Know the truth to save your time, money, effort, emotions, relationships..
That is all for today, my friends. I gotta monitor the barangay and the mayor's FB page so I will know where to get my assistance. Please wish me luck, I need it. It's a big help to my family and I also wish to extend the blessing to my family in the province and to a friend for a merrier Christmas.
I will catch up with you soon.
To everyone, especially my sponsors and subscribers: THANK YOU VERY MUCH!
Xoxo,
**Glessa**
The lead image was from Unsplash.com and the Merry Christmas image was from Giphy.com
The rest of the content is mine unless stated otherwise.
December 17, 2021
The Art of Tolerance.
**How are you my dear read friends? I hope the day has been kind to you, and to those who are going to be affected by the typhoon, please keep safe.**
Since it's almost Christmas, our neighbors have been so noisy the past few days. Saoirse has never had a decent nap for straight 2 days because of people singing loudly with their videoke and the shouting of other people swimming in the resort (Yup, there is a resort beside the house). Just like today, we decided to go out for a walk to have fun rather than be stressed by the distraction.
Instead of focusing on the negative emotions that arise due to disturbances, I realized that I should learn the art of tolerance because if not, negativity will eat me alive. It is not good for my overall health.
I learnt not only the tolerance of having noisy and annoying neighbors but the tolerance with the people I don't like or may have a disagreement with.
For example, my mother-in-law. She sometimes said hurtful words that she may not be aware of, I don't know she might be aware of it but chose to say otherwise. I learned to ignore and tolerate. It's not gonna kill me anyway. And everyone leaving the bathroom wet or dirty, I managed to maintain the bathroom's cleanliness without giving a fuss anymore.
**Tolerance makes us endure uncomfortable or painful situations**. It saves us from putting ourselves or a relationship at risk. It makes us see things from a different perspective and we can just go on with our lives normally. I could talk back to mil you know but I'd rather keep my mouth shut. Since I am living with them and it's not my house, I had to give them the credit and respect
**Tolerance helps us stick to our plans or dreams.** We may compromise our aspirations if we negatively respond to a problem. Just like with my partner, I can tolerate him playing games too much because he teaches and helps Bam with the modules. His unemployment is my motivation why I am grinding here in read. He said he doesn't know his motivations. Well, I do and I won't let that affect me from pursuing my plans.
**Tolerance gives us the wisdom to be cautious and careful**. It makes us wise to choose our battles. We may allow losing an argument so we won't waste time and energy. We may allow others to think about us otherwise because there is no use in persuading them to change their minds
Too much tolerance though can be abused and may be taken incorrectly so one must know and set its limit and boundaries. Just like our neighbors, if they are still shouting their lungs out at 10 pm, we can no longer tolerate such behavior so we call the barangay or police and complain.
Learn the art of tolerance.
Are you a patient person? Are you tolerant enough to bear uncomfortable situations or annoying people? I am sometimes not.
I hope I am able to impart something of value to you today, dear read friends. I need to sleep now because I have to do something later. I shall tell you what it is in my next article.
To everyone, especially my sponsors and subscribers: THANK YOU VERY MUCH!
Too-da-loo,
Glessa
The lead image was from Unsplash.com and the Christmas image was from Giphy.com
The rest of the article is mine unless stated otherwise.
December 16, 2021 1:21AM
Who is the Santa in your family?
**How are you, my dear read friends?** It's kind of cool today, a perfect day to chill. I have been so busy with some stuff, especially with the toddler issue but I did try to go outside today. It was a great day to walk.
Everyone is busy for Christmas and New Year. And I do feel that we are all trying to catch up with celebrating them since the pandemic started. It is a different kind of holiday for me- the virus took a lot of lives, not only that, I think this year is the year of great reaping or harvest of souls. Several of my friends lost a relative, I experienced it as well because my mom died.
Anyways, let's go back to the celebration. We all know Santa, don't we? And the kids believe that they will receive gives if they've been nice and behave the whole year. They wait until midnight or wake up early in the morning to open the gifts Santa prepared for them.
Do you have a "Santa" in your family? Is it you, if not, who is it?
I mean, the Santa, the breadwinner, the one who always saves everyone from trouble. The one who gives all-year-round. The one who is only one call or text away.
In our clan, the Santa is my granda, Mommy Glo. She sent most of my cousins to school, including me. Whatever course we choose, she'll go for it. All she wants is a diploma and for us to pay it forward for the betterment of our clan's future. In our little family, it was me. It used to be me until I stopped working. But before I did, I remember sending my mama my very first salary where I got so emotional. I only had 3000 pesos but it was like a million to me. I was happy that I could finally start supporting her. And when I had better earnings, I started giving her her regular bi-weekly allowance, aside from the clothes and whatever I put in the package for her and Bam. And I send money to whoever had a birthday in our family. I sent a box of goodies one time in December. It felt so good.
The downturn is, everyone in the family thinks I was always healthy and wealthy. I have given too much. Santa always gives everything just like the breadwinners. Well, that's how we love our family, don't we? We gave a lot and keep a little or nothing, sometimes, for ourselves. And when trouble comes, we ask for help from other a friend or a family, we could get some if we get lucky, if not, we suffer alone.
I have written this article for us, dear "Santas" (I do still think I am a breadwinner because I am the only one earning in my little family), to take care of ourselves because we are our family's hope. Let us invest in our health, invest in our lives. We can't be strong always, we get older. Let us be wise and think of our future, too. Let us learn to say "no", and teach our family to tend for themselves. Let them be independent.
And for those who have a Santa in the family- do not abuse him or her. Be thankful for Santa's support and generosity. Do not be too complacent, finish your studies or reach your goal, prove yourself worthy of the aid Santa has entrusted you. And when the time comes, be the Santa too. I know you can't refuse a loved one who will need your help whether he/she is naughty or nice, just be a wise Santa. A better Santa.
I wish you a Merry Christmas with your family!
**TO EVERYONE, ESPECIALLY MY SPONSORS AND 101 STRONG SUBSCRIBERS THANK YOU VERY MUCH!**
Xoxo,
Glessa
The lead image was from Unsplash and the Merry Christmas image from Giphy.com
The rest of the content is mine unless stated otherwise
December 15, 2021
I am not in a good relationship with perfectly straight lines!
**How are you, my read friends?** I have been so freaking busy, the holiday rush is catching up with me lol. It is quite difficult but I am enjoying my moment with my toddler. She sometimes talks gibberish and throws tantrums at me because I couldn't get her.
I read some articles yesterday about Christmas gifts sis @Eylz2021 wanted to receive which reminded me about my dream gift for this Xmas: oil pastel.
I wanted to try the water color for painting but I discovered the love of oil pastel. I did try to add it to my Shopee cart with the sketch pad but I hesitated.
Then I remember my frustrations about the arts when I was in high school. It was in our electricity class which we were tasked to create a schematic diagram, bird's eye view, and electrical plan of our dream houses. I never get the straight lines right even with the help of a ruler! It frustrates me!
And when I did draw a nice straight line, you will really see and feel something is lacking. I even pitied myself, trying to recall what could have caused my artistic or creativity block.
I envied the fashion designer with the elegance of their strokes, the graphic designers or illustrators, and the architect's perfect curves and lines. Sometimes I wondered what can I really do when it comes to the arts. Perhaps I wasn't given the chance to fully develop my hands when I was a kid? Did my paralyzed hands at 9 affect everything because I had to practice writing all over again to stimulate the blood circulation?
Thinking of putting my imagination to life using oil pastel excites me so much. I have always dreamt of drawing flowers, any kinds of flowers- from reality to fantasy. I wish I will have the will power and courage to add to cart. Why do I feel guilty buying something for myself? Is this how hard motherhood has taken a toll on me? Lol.
I am gonna share some of my works with you guys (char). And I am open to feedback and criticism, if ever.
Sigh, I just hope BCH will go green again in the next few days so I will have this confidence to buy something for myself (I wanna add to cart now!). I can't wait to draw, and I am not gonna be bothered by the perfect lines because am not gonna draw some buildings.
Anyways, it's time to read some articles and catch up with the community. My schedule has been so hectic, I could feel the holiday rush. Christmas is fast approaching and I need to do a lot of cleaning in the next few days. It is my tradition to prepare for the New Year, I wanna get rid of the trash of the past year so we could have a clean and fresh start.
How about you, my friends? Do you like drawing too? What are your preparations for Christmas and New Year? What did you buy for yourself?
To everyone, especially my sponsors and my 101 strong subscribers, MARAMING SALAMAT PO!
Happy holidays,
Glessa
The lead image was from Unsplash.com
Merry Christmas GIF from Giphy.com and the rest of the content is mine
December 14, 2021 @1:
Hello friends! I decided to not publish for today because I am so freaking busy. I have crying 1.5 baby throwing a tantrum on me for not putting the butterfly Barbie in her Ate's shorts. I would like to thank my dear sisters @Bloghound and @CoquiCoin for renewing their sponsorships.
Let me just hush my baby.
Thank you!
I am so happy, I just got a notification that I got some free tips from noise..Thanks for the trust noise!
My routine as a sponsor and sponsee here on read.
G'day friends. How are you coping up with the Christmas rush? Me? I am just trying to chill, but praying BCH will rise again so I could have a budol experience with Shopee.
Yup, you have read it right, I am a sponsor too. I wish I could have more, but who knows in the near future? Before I go further, I am quite sad because I lost some of my sponsors. Maybe, it's their way of telling me that I am no longer a "baby" here on read, and I should stand on my own this time. And it's time to pay it forward. Perhaps, I fell short? And for that, I would like to apologize from the bottom of my heart, my ex-sponsors. I do feel bad, but there's nothing I could do to further control the damage that I've done.
Since I only have limited time online because I am a full-time mom, here is my routine as a sponsor and sponsee here:
I write my article on my phone and send it to my email
I copy my article from my email and go to read and click on "Write", "Full Article".
I edit it and when I am happy, I "publish" it.
I then go to my "Sponsorships" and click on the name of the sponsee and read his or her article
I read, upvote and comment when I have time or less just upvote
I then go to my "Sponsors" list and do the same, read, upvote and comment
When I am done with them, I then go to my notifications and see what's going on
I have subscribed to a lot of people so pardon me if I cannot upvote and comment on all of your articles.
As usual, I read upvote, and comment.
I might give more or less, depending on what I earned for the day and how BCH is standing.
I make sure that before I withdraw my money, I have enough to send payment to my sponsees.
Being a sponsor on read makes me:
Responsible and cautious- I do feel that some people are looking up to me so I gotta be a good example about what I write and how I interact with other people.
Punctual- I need to at least, be on time or pay my sponsee in advance. I am kind of OC most of the time, I don't want to miss a deadline.
Wise- I realize sponsoring someone who is inactive is a waste, there are some newbies who are wishing to be sponsored. I'm afraid I won't renew one or two sponsees.
Happier- I really am happy meeting people from different walks of life from all over the world. Gosh, I am so over the moon.
Feel generous- I may not have given a lot but I am happy that I am able to help.
I am having a headache so I just wanna publish something light for today. And I appreciate your time in reading this.
TO EVERYONE ESPECIALLY TO MY SPONSORS AND SUBSCRIBERS, THANK YOU VERY MUCH!
Too-da-loo,
**Glessa**
The lead image was from Unsplash.com, the second from Giphy.
The rest of the content is mine.
December 11, 2021
Thank you for renewing your sponsorship dear @eyzl2021 I am glad that you still find me worthy of your support. Merry Christmas po to you and your family!
Hope came a-knockin'- A Christmas Story
"Achooo!", a loud sneeze is heard by the entire North Pole. "Achooooo!", again and again, the whole place trembles causing a crack on giant ice.
"I think I have covid!", says Santa who doesn't look entirely well.
"Where did you go and whom did you talk to?", asked Ella, one of Santa's elves.
"I went to Australia to talk to one of my mates. His kid wanted some Lambo, I couldn't give it coz he's a naughty fella!", says Santa.
"I got a headache, sore throat, runny nose, and diarrhea! I might have covid. We might need to cancel Christmas", Santa worriedly announced.
The news spread in the entire North Pole, everyone is sad, especially the reindeers. "We cannot just go out there giving gifts without Santa and I might have caught a bug too", Rudolf said while sneezing. His nose became redder.
Santa sent a special email to the nicest adults in the entire world but everyone is busy except Eddie because he has just rendered his last day at work.
"What can I do to help?", Ed asked Santa in an email.
"Do you know how to transport these gifts all over the world? I can't do it and my reindeers can only fly with me...We cannot cancel Christmas. It will be a total disaster! The whole world will be flooded by the poor children's tears", Santa replied with desperation.
"I don't have powers or any magic of some sort! I am just a mad Scotsman!", answered Ed.
"My magic bag is on the way, I have sent it via Magic Express Delivery. Just touch it and make a wish. Also, the list will appear once you open the bag. It contains the names and the gifts to give...My test came out positive so I can't make it for Christmas. Don't worry, the bag and everything is sanitized". That was Santa's last response.
Suddenly, there was a knock on the door. When Ed opened it, no one was around except a bag.
"Oh, this must be it", said he while picking it up. He slowly opened the bag and saw the list. It was quite long!
"How can I read all of this?", he cluelessly asked himself.
"You don't have to, I will do everything. All you gotta do is distribute all the gifts! And I am safe by the way, I am covid negative", the bag talked to Ed.
He was shocked that he froze for a minute. He couldn't believe what he has gotten himself into.
So the following day, he went to his favorite clothing store and bought red attire. Does he need to look like Santa? How can he make his tummy bigger? Shall he drink a barrel of beer so he could achieve Santa's look?
"I don't have reindeers! Oh, wait, the swan family...Maybe they could help me!" Ed was so happy with such a realization. So he went to the park and asked the swans for help.
"Wez dontz havez powerz, wez canz onlyz flyz az shortz distanz", said Mud pie.
"Butz wez reallyz wantz toz helpz!", seconded Cutie pie.
The swans were worried they might not be able to fly around the world and carry such tons of gifts.
"Oh I forgot to show this", Ed opened his backpack and showed them the magic bag.
"I want a sleigh please!", wished Ed.
"Chinnngggg"...The sleigh appeared right their very eyes...
"Wowzz magiczzz!", chorused the swans.
The swans started lining up...Their parents Mr. And Mrs. Stevie Swan were at the front...Followed by Cutie pie and Sweetie pie, Strawberry pie and Blueberry pie, Mud pie and Coo pie...Then a magic rope appeared tying them all together. A bright light engulfed the entire sleigh and the swans' wings and feet twinkled.
"Iz feelz soz lightz!", Strawberry pie flapped her wings and she began floating...One more flap and she was flying!
The rest of the swans followed.
Ed has just seen the most beautiful sleigh in the world.
"I guess we're all set for Christmas!", he said to the swans.
Everything is ready on Christmas Eve.
"I can't do this, I have never flown in a sleigh with swans around the globe!", Ed nervously told Santa's elves who came to help him pile the gifts.
"Ed, remember, Santa is counting on you-we are counting on you! You can do this for the kids-for the Spirit of Christmas", encouraged by Bert, the oldest elf.
Meanwhile, "I think Santa's not coming", cried Saoirse. She sadly embraced her mom, Glessa, then they turned the Christmas tree off. The neighborhood knew what happened to Saoirse so they turned off their Christmas trees as well. Perhaps Christmas will come next year.
When suddenly.....
"Hohohohoho!", shouts Ed. Everyone heard Santa!
"Santa came! Look, I got my Peppa Pig car under the Christmas tree!", Saoirse exclaims with happiness.
"Mine too!", say Bam and Cassie.
Then the Christmas tree lights up in each house, the entire neighborhood came back to life as the air is filled with children's laughter.
"Youz didz az goodz jobz Edz, wez arez soz proudz ofz youz", said mother swan, Suzy.
"I couldn't do it without you, so thank you very much", Ed thanks the swans.
And then, a golden pin appeared on Ed's right chest that says "Swanta"...
Christmas pushed through and the children were happy. Hope came a-knockin' indeed, thanks Swanta!
This is my entry for the #ChristmasChallenge2021 by sir Ed @TengoLoTodo and
I hope you all like it.
https://read.cash/@TengoLoTodo/christmas-challenge-2021-e6304e6c
Should you wish to join, here are the rules:
Submit an entry with the theme **A Christmas Story**
Mention the tag **#ChristmasChallenge2021** https://read.cash/search?q=%23ChristmasChallenge2021
Mention @TengoLoTodo https://read.cash/@TengoLoTodo
The article needs to be **in English** and **at least 600 words** in length
Has to be your **own words and original content**
**Needs to have a picture of the Special Requirement READ somewhere in the article.**
No more entries after December 23rd will be eligible for prizes.
Always remember, we can give hope to anybody with whatever little effort we can do or thing we have. Let us believe in our capacity as a beacon of hope to those who may have lost it.
To everyone especially my sponsors and subscribers- THANK YOU VERY MUCH!
**Nollaig chridheil agus bliadhna mhath ur,**
Glessa
The lead image was from Unsplash.com and the rest of the content is mine
December 10, 2021
Thank you to my 100 subscribers! I am honored and grateful to have touched a hundred hearts. May you be blessed! I have virtual food and drinks to share with you guys!
I have a silly idea, but would Rusty stop giving me some love if I do it?
It's one of those "Eureka" moments my dear, which kind of excites me. Not sure if someone has attempted and tried.
How about I start a virtual party, hangout, or "tambayan" on read? We don't have PMs or DMs so we'll start it via a short post and anyone can comment or join. It will be like this, for example:
1. My short post title is, for instance- Coffee, anyone?
Are you stressed and you need a break? My virtual coffee shop is open. Here is the menu. Hit me up if you want a cup or two. (Just be creative!)
2. Then someone commented like "I want this (flavor, size and flavor, etc)...
3. You can give a tip for the first commenter as a reward. Or
4. You give the coffee right away using emoji and tell them how much it is.
( There are coffee emojis from the internet that you can copy and paste and don't overprice eh.)
5. The one who ordered should give you some BCH via upvote.
6. You can give a small portion of the upvote back or not, up to you.
7. Entertain your customers by asking random questions. See if the thread goes longer.
8. Limit the thread for like 15 to 20 minutes. But it depends if everyone is still having fun. Offer an upsell like a snack or something.
9. Let everyone know if "your shop" or whatever activity it is, is ending, so you won't leave the people hanging.
10. Let's try this one out! Are you with me?
11. Either you are a moderator or a commenter, you can put a limit on how much you can "spend" or give in the thread. And you can still continue with your conversation.
Be the moderator if you created the post, be respectful and be professional. Don't talk about politics, religion, or at least keep to a minimum, sexuality or profanity. Anything that's not allowed by the platform shouldn't be done.
You can post on noise if you are already "live" on read and what your short post is all about. This way, you can get affiliates from noise to become members of read as well. A win-win situation!
I love organizing engagement activities, despite being shy and being an introvert. And I hope this one will work out. Honestly, I am just doing some rumblings and babbling because I am overthinking what I should do about the remaining challenges I need to do hehe..I am competitive, I believe I am!
**Thanks for your time in reading my article, my dear friends. And I wish you are having a great day! Let me know if this is really silly lol.**
To my sponsors, subscribers, upvoters, and commenters: THANK YOU VERY MUCH.
Merry Christmas,
Glessa
The lead image was from Unsplash.com, Merry Christmas image from Giphy.com
and the rest is mine
December 9, 2021
ThePerfectGift2021- What a lovely day to be Santa!
I've never played Santa in my life, just a pirate, and this would be the best opportunity for me to give gifts to some people that made 2021 extra special! Let me check what I have in my bag... https://www.123rf.com/photo_99743605_top-view-of-open-empty-red-travelling-bag-isolated-on-white-background.html
Oh, there's none because the gifts that I will be giving are too big to put inside!
Hmm, have you been naughty or nice, my friends? I haven't really had a thorough check on my list however, here are the top nicest people that have positively influenced me every day of my life and the gifts that I'd love to give them:
To sis @FarmGirl I want to give you this Christmas baby because I know you've been praying to have one. Isn't he perfect? He always smiles and doesn't cry a lot. He loves to cuddle and sleep. He likes pasta and beef Wellington. Yes, he already eats solids. For dessert, he prefers Soufflé. You will see the hand guide on how to take care of him in his diaper bag, which has unlimited supplies. Just a warning though: he sometimes releases his missile poop lol. I will give you the honor to name the baby, otherwise, he'd be Gordon. Good luck.
Dear sis @Bloghound I know you have been so tired of doing all your household chores so I am giving you this robot. You don't have to do all the cleaning and stuff, just let her do it. All you gotta do is teach your sweet daughter and have a great bonding time with her when school is done. She can also be your bodyguard, she knows all sorts of martial arts. Her name is Robbie, by the way.
The mad Scotsman I think, has all the great things in the world but I wanna add something to his swan friends. This is a swan mug for you sir Ed @TengoLoTodo Her name is Kampie lol. You can put some coffee, wine, or beer whatever you like. Then drink to your heart's content because you won't run out of it, just whisper to the mug, "I want some booze, and voila! You got it".
http://www.imaginemarine.com/Mugs-Mug-Cool-Swan-Gift-Swan-536645-Home-&-Garden/
What shall I give to the one who already has everything he desires? @Lucifer01 ...He seemed to have been in love and got heart broken. How about a hologram girlfriend for you? Or do you still want the detective, Chloe? I changed my mind, let's replace your car with this one. Do you like it? It can go to any dimensions- heaven, hell, purgatory, etc.
To this ever hard-working woman sis @bmjc98 I am gonna give you a mansion. You don't have to pay for any amortization, everything is paid. As a bonus, you have the option to choose the interior of the house, from top to bottom. The house is also eco-friendly, you won't have to worry about paying hefty bills. I got it all sorted out for you!
How will I forget this awesome lady too? Sis @yhanne I will give you and your family a lifetime VIP card which you can use in all buffets in the Philippines. Name the restaurant or hotel, from Mariott to Sambo Kojin, you won't have to pay for eating with your family. The card has no expiry so you won't have to worry about renewing it.
To one of the bunsos (youngests) sis @Expelliarmus30 I know you have been doing your best in your studies to give yourself and your family a good future so my gift to you is an all-expense-paid trip abroad. You can fly anytime, anywhere with your family. Take all the time that you need to unwind, you deserve it. Just don't forget to send me a postcard whenever you are on the globe.
And lastly, why would I forget the birthday girl, my dear friend Eliana @CoquiCoin? Since it is difficult to travel around Venezuela due to the price of petrol. I'm gonna give you a private plane. And you know what? The fuel is free for life. You can fly wherever you want to and the private plane comes with a butler. It is also on auto-pilot. You got everything you need inside this plane, my dear. And, I also added the latest gaming system for your son so he could play as much as he wants to if he gets bored while flying.
To some of my friends that I didn't mention here, no worries. I will drop each one of you a bag of goodies when I fly on Christmas Eve.
This is my entry for my first Christmas prompt here on read, yey! For the #PerfectGiftChallenge2021 dear @CoquiCoin . Win or lose, I had fun!
I hope you like my gift, my dears. They are all from the bottom of my heart.
Merry Christmas!
Glessa
The bag image was from https://www.123rf.com/photo_99743605_top-view-of-open-empty-red-travelling-bag-isolated-on-white-background.html
The rest of the images were from Unsplash.com and the content is mine.
December 8, 2021
What the world would be like without cryptocurrencies!
Gosh, it's so darn cold. I think it's the coldest day of the year. I am happy with it, I hated the warm climate because Saoirse's itching a lot.
I am not gonna talk about the weather today, my dear friends, but about cryptos. We felt the dip the past few days and we were like, "Argghhh".
Imagine if Satoshi Nakamoto wasn't given the knowledge and courage to create Bitcoin, do you think we would still have cryptocurrencies now? Would it be as expensive and as rare as Bitcoin? Truth be told, BTC is as rare as gold- it has even outplaced gold substantially. Have you ever thought, in your wildest imagination that a digital currency could beat a mineral?
Anyways, do you wanna go back to the pre-historic era when there were no cryptocurrencies? Where we get airdrops literally by getting goods being dropped from the sky. That would be hilarious.
If there are no cryptocurrencies:
**The market would be so boring.**
Don't you think? Imagine only seeing stocks, commodities, indices, and foreign exchange. Where is the excitement? None! The world does go gaga over the unpredictability and volatility of cryptocurrencies. When you bought cheap tokens and see them pumping in the market didn't you wanna thank the Heavens for such a blessing?
**We won't be as empowered as we are now because of decentralization.**
Personally, I feel empowered that I can take my cryptos whenever I want because there is no financial institution that can stop me. The agony is in waiting for it to go into my wallet for fiat conversion...Sigh...But we defied! I love this crypto revolution.
And we won't know the tech terms farming, minting, altcoins, meme coins, blockchain, etc. We'll just stick to what we've known since birth- the paper bills, coins just some boring stuff. Not so complicated terms that make everything feel so routinary and monotonous. Yes or yes?
**There won't be read and noise.**
Could you imagine that? What crypto do you think would be an alternative to BCH? Do you think it still can make read and noise as to what it is now? I know alternative cryptos could still run both platforms, but is it gonna be as fun, as dynamic, and as thriving? Do you think Club1BCH and ClubbrokeBCH will exist?
The traditional people stuck in the T-rex epoch wanted to bring the crypto-verse down but they're not winning. They actually do not want decentralization, they want a cryptocurrency they can control, they want power over their citizens- supremacy at its finest. Ooops, I don't wanna talk about politics it only stresses me out. I just hope there will be more open-minded leaders who are okay with their citizens using cryptocurrencies because it is the future. And the future is now!
Do you want a reset, a world without cryptocurrencies? Can you imagine not having an e-wallet? Not mining, farming, or minting your favorite tokens? Would you like to go back to traditional banking and investing? Let me know your thoughts and let's talk!
TO EVERYONE- THANK YOU VERY MUCH FROM THE BOTTOM OF MY HYPOTHALAMUS.
Merry Christmas!
Glessa
The lead and secondary imags were from Unsplash.com
December 7, 2021
Preggy me or preggy me not?
I did wish to have my own family and my kids just like everyone else. And I planned to marry when I meet the right one after I am financially stable. Well, to be honest, to my desperation, I did want to have a one-night-stand with a stranger if I am still childless at 30.
But things have turned out differently for me. I don't wanna share that dreadful love story sorry guys, it's like an MMK (Maalaala Mo Kaya) drama. I've moved on so let's just focus on the happy part...
I was most of the time, delayed 2 weeks of my scheduled monthly period so I wasn't afraid of the idea of being pregnant.
But one day, something weird happened. It was June 2013. When I was going inside our floor (eBay account), there was a queue. The first person was 2 or 3 months pregnant, she asked the guard to not "totot" her (scanner) because of the radiation. She was followed by a female on her 5 or 6 months pregnancy, and then after her was a pregnant agent who needed to see her boss to file a maternity leave. And I was the last to enter. When the guard was about to swipe the "totot" on my tummy, I instinctively covered it.
When it was break time, I went to the pantry to find some food. Believe me, I was seeing pregnant women all over the place. And I was like," Is this the cue, am I pregnant too?"...I was horrified by the idea, my heart was beating fast.
I didn't know I was already conceiving but I started feeling:
**Sleepy all the time**- I slept at work, despite being logged in for a few minutes. I slept in the jeepney. I doze off the taxi while my friend and I were going to the US embassy to process her papers. In short, I sleep whenever I lay my back on something else lol.
**Lazy**- I am not used to lying on the bed all day and not doing anything but I've never felt so lazy all my life. Clubbing, binge-watching, food trips, and Empi lights didn't interest me anymore.
**I felt ugly**- Really, I had self-pity. I feel like I was the ugliest girl in the world. I didn't want to comb my hair or put on some lip gloss. I hated picture taking lol.
Despite my weird feelings, I still went out with my close friends for food trips. We met in SM Makati and ate in the food court, we went to SM Aura, stroll around, and had crabs in Venice Piazza.
I met with my cousins and had a drink in the night and swam the following morning.
When I began feeling scared that I might be conceiving, I filed my resignation from Sutherland to find a higher paying job and because I couldn't stand the thought of seeing my ex in the same place.
I had a new job 3 weeks after my hiatus. I was then with 24/7 Inc as TSR (Technical Support Representative). An hour before my physical exam, I took a pregnancy test which came out positive. I then declared it to the company and was advised to get a fit to work clearance before I could start training.
When I found out I was pregnant:
I was sad because I knew I couldn't give her a complete family but I was determined to provide all she needs that she doesn't have to question her existence.
I was scared because I might not be able to give all her desires but I decided to be honest and open to her about my past so she won't hold a grudge against me or her biological dad.
I was doubtful that I might not be always healthy and strong. And I realized I have my mother and my sisters who will be there to back me up.
I know I will be judged for being a single mom for keeping my baby. But I decided to do what's right and took the responsibility of being a single parent. God will provide, why should I be disheartened?
It was never easy to go through pregnancy and parenthood as a single mom but with the support of family, friends, and God, it became possible.
This, my friends, is my entry to "How did I find out I was pregnant- A Challenge!" as pushed by @MommySwag. I am not part of their group but she said I could write about my pregnancy, why not? It's good to share that special part of my life.
To my sponsors, subscribers, upvoters, and commenters: Thank you very much!
Have a Merry Christmas,
Glessa
All images and content are mine unless stated otherwise.
December 6, 2021
Never thought I'd be in paradise!
Everything was dark. I couldn't move. There are tubes in my mouth, I wanna talk but how could I?
I wanna move my fingers but I feel like losing all my strength just to lift one of them.
I could only hear the people talking in the background. The sound of their steps to and fro. The ticktock of the clock, the beep of the monitor. Was it for my heart?
I wanted to open my eyes but I fail.
I suddenly saw a light. And who is this beautiful woman? Her face looks so radiant, she is glowing with happiness.
"Are you ready? Your family is waiting for you", the woman said. "Wait, where are we going? Why can I speak?", I was panicking when I realized I am alive and well. I got scared when I am having a conversation with a stranger.
Then suddenly, I froze. I see my body, what is that, my body? Why do I have two bodies? I am getting crazy!
"You have just left your ethereal body, your vessel. It's time for a new chapter in life. And I am your angel. I am here to guide you", the angel said.
"I haven't said goodbye to my loved ones yet! I don't wanna go!". I cried.
"But your time has come, I will give you a minute to say goodbye", she said.
I suddenly felt my body against the soft hospital bed. And I am able to slowly open my eyes!
Oh, I see a lot of dear family and close friends. I wish I could kiss and hug them right now.
I felt a hand holding me, I pressed it. It was my loving boyfriend. He looks sad but still handsome. I wish I could tell him I love him. My sisters, I never thought they'll be here. My nephews and nieces. I feel so much joy. But then my vision gets blurry, my heart stops beating. Then there was total darkness. Blank, everything was just blank.
"Wake up", a gentle voice whispers to me. I opened my eyes. "Where is this beautiful place? Why does the sunshine so brightly yet it doesn't hurt my skin? Why does the sky have lots of rainbows?", I asked myself silently. I don't know who this handsome stranger is in front of me. I finally found my voice. "May I know where am I? And who are you?", I shyly asked.
"You are in paradise. And my name is Michael". He replied.
"You see death is only the beginning of a new life free of pain and sorrow, your family should not mourn about you. You were kind, just, and honest when you were alive. You lived a good life", he added.
I found peace after he said it and I smiled. I guess I will like it here then.
Then I saw a hill full of flowers that I've never seen before.
"Can I roam around?", I asked Michael.
"Sure, this is your home from now on. Feel free to do whatever makes you happy", he responded.
And I excitedly walked towards the mountain forgetting about everything else. Then an unfamiliar voice called me from somewhere, "Finella!". I tried to trace where the voice is coming from. I don't know who they are! "We are your family, your ancestors. Welcome to paradise! We have a lot of catching up to do!", said the woman who introduced herself as my great-great-great-grandma Victoria. Then she lead us to the most beautiful place I've never ever seen in my life, a house with a gigantic tree in the middle adorned by fireflies in the daytime! There were different varieties of flowers with interesting colors and shapes. I was breathless!
We started our conversation with an introduction of who we are and that's it. I couldn't remember what happened to me, why I am here, but it's alright. And everyone was having a good time with all the good food beyond my imagination. I am at peace, happy, and excited about this new phase of my journey.
Hello mate, I hope you liked my fictional story for today. Thought I'd share something new. Let me know if you don't. And do you think there is a paradise afterlife?
Glessa
All images were from Unsplash.com
December 5, 2021
Life as how I see it!
I noticed that I already have 90 subscribers as of this writing. Thank you very much my read.cash friends! It is my honor to serve you with my stories and I hope you find something valuable in it.
They say life is how we make it. Life is unfair and complicated, etc, etc. In this topic, I will share with you how I view life. You may or may not agree with me, "Life is in the eye of the beholder", not beauty this time.
I see life like a:
Tree
Life is like a tree. It starts from being a seed. It sprouts and it grows. If nurtured properly with love and kindness, it will grow into a big, strong tree giving shades to those who are under extreme weather conditions. There are some instances that it can be damaged due to storms but as long as its roots are attached to the ground, it will keep on growing or bearing fruit. If it's not strong enough, it might be uprooted and die.
Flower
Life is as beautiful as a rose or a hibiscus. It has its own grandeur and purpose. We cannot tell one flower is not as pretty as the other because they are both mesmerizing uniquely. Nature designed it to give happiness to those who understand its beauty. It blooms if taken care of properly, otherwise, it will wither, wilt, and be replaced by another healthy and better variety.
Kid
Life is like a kid itself. It doesn't know anything at first until you teach it, mold it, to what you want it to be. It is forgiving, it understands that everything is a trial and error. We rejoice with success, weep, and learn with failures. It loves unconditionally and it doesn't hold grudges. It trusts and hopes and it is content with simple, enjoyable things.
Borrowed toy
Life is like a borrowed toy. It is not owned by anybody except the Creator himself. It should be handled carefully with the utmost respect. It is as fragile as glass, it can shatter anytime or be broken at any moment. The ownership of life is limited therefore should be used intelligently for regret in the end won't mean anything. And when the owner gets it back, make sure He'll be happy to see its condition otherwise it'll be an embarrassment to return such damaged good.
One-way ticket
Life is like a one-way ticket. It can only be given once in a lifetime so it has to be used, otherwise, it might be forfeited or expired. The secret to life is to enjoy the simplest, rarest moments and to remember the most painful ones as lessons. How do you want to view your life, my friend? As an enjoyable experience or a bitter one? The journey to this destination of so-called life will depend on how you see the sceneries as you travel along the way. Appreciate the beauty of everything there is so you will have a smile on your face and contentment in your heart when you finally arrive "home".
How do you see life? Do you compare it to something you see around you? Comment, comment, comment.
TO EVERYONE: THANK YOU VERY MUCH!
Too-da-loo,
**Glessa**
All images were from Unsplash.com
December 4, 2021
When worrying and overthinking are becoming unhealthy, STOP!
G'day mate! The weather is so nice, it's cold but sunny! I am pretty sure it is great to go outside later for a walk or bike.
I did something silly the other day. I saw fat cat minting on Twitter so I wanted to try it out. So I opened my Metamask wallet, unfortunately, I needed gas before I could start minting. I am thankful that Coinflex was so easy to use, I was able to register and send $.50 worth of BCH from my Bitcoin.com BCH wallet to Coinflex. I had to withdraw it using the SEP20 to send the BCH to my smartBCH address on Metamask. Then I saw the fatcat amount: 1 fatcat is 0.01 BCH lol. I didn't have enough. The .$50 will have to sit down on Coinflex. I need to enable 2FA to withdraw it. I won't worry about that BCH for now.
Then I commented on sis Farmgirl's article on read and she asked about my smartBCH address, who doesn't want a blessing? So I downloaded Google 2FA and successfully requested to withdraw my BCH into my Metamask wallet. Coinflex confirmed that the transaction was completed but I couldn't find the transaction online using my smartBCH address or even the transaction ID. I am not worried about losing the amount though, I don't wanna lose whatever sis is gonna send me. Now I am worried and overthinking. A lot of what-ifs are in my mind. It added to my stress with Rusty being a snob for days.
Are worrying and overthinking healthy? For me, yes, if they are in moderation. Just like in food and everything. Worrying will give you the push to look for alternatives in case something won't work out to save you from further inconvenience. And overthinking, if your situation is unlike any other and you're making sure all angles are checked, all options are exhausted before you either give up and stop or ask for help.
Your body goes into fight or flight mode increasing your heart rate and blood pressure. Make sure what you're overthinking about is worth it.
So right now, am gonna stop, yeah? I don't want to further aggravate my hypokalemia so deep breathing, let go of the negative thinking and just stop. I will check my Metamask wallet tomorrow, whatever the outcome will be, so be it. Que sera sera. I will leave it to the expert.
I know you are guilty, just like me. No need to defend yourself. Just trust that things will sort themselves out. Nothing you can do with the uncontrollable.
As the Bible says "Worrying won't add a day in your life" and "Let tomorrow worry by itself".
P.S. Just an update, while I am editing this article, I checked my smartBCH on Metamask today, my tokens are there! Hurray! I am glad that I did the right thing, stopped overthinking, and let things be. And Mr. Rider gave my order to my dad-in-law without asking for payment. Was her overthinking too, or worried about his other orders? Lol.
Do you sometimes overthink and worry too much like me? What were those issues, if you want to share? I understand if it's too personal.
**TO MY SPONSORS, SUBSCRIBERS, UPVOTERS, AND COMMENTERS: THANK YOU VERY MUCH.**
Too-da-loo,
**Glessa**
The lead image was from Unsplash.com and the rest of the content is mine.
December 3, 2021
You are so sweet, thank you for renewing your sponsorship little sis @Expelliarmus30...Aral ka ng mabuti para sa future mo ha :D
You are gold!- Acrostic version
Are you feeling blue? Insecure and wishing you could have what others have? I feel you, my friend. We all want to be somebody else at some point in our lives. So if you need a little push, here is my inspirational write-up for you and I hope I will be able to put a smile on your face when you're done reading.
Mate:
**You** just have to be yourself. The right people will come along, the wrong ones will leave. Radiate the frequency of positivity and thankfulness, you will attract the same kind of company.
**Our** world needs more passionate, kind, just, and honest people. Be one of those. We need to change the world for the better, for our children and their children.
**Understanding** and accepting your flaws are crucial steps to self-love. You need to give a quality kind of love to yourself before you share it with others.
**Arrogance** breeds misunderstanding. Have an open mind and listen to other people's explanations. If the relationship is worth saving, forgive and start again, otherwise, forgive and forget.
**Remember** those who have been there for you during your darkest moments. Bless them when you pray or meditate. They deserve it.
**Envy** won't bring you anywhere. Turn it into an inspiration. Set others' success as an example of wanting to reach your goals. Focus, aim high, give what you got so you won't regret it if you fail.
**Go** for your dreams, the only person who can stop them from coming true is you- if you allow criticisms and discouragement to bring you down.
**Our** time here on Earth is limited so make sure you spend time with family and friends. Rebuild relationships, reconnect with lost acquaintances, pamper yourself. Make happy and meaningful experiences. Learn from a traveler's life story.
**Love** like you never loved before. Do not avenge your failed relationships. They happened for a reason. Whatever takeaways you get from your past, do the positive and avoid the negative.
**Desire** and do what's good for your soul. Your body is the temple of your spirit so take good care of it. Rear your mind with a great read. Train yourself to be resilient and tough yet loving and kind.
Always remember, my friend what you see in yourself will be a reflection of how others will treat you. Respect yourself, be kind to yourself, be generous to yourself. You've worked so hard, you should enjoy whatever reward you'll reap at the end of the day. Don't be too hard on yourself. Let loose! Tap your shoulder for being a good person, brother, or sister, or mother, or father. For being responsible and for doing what you can to survive, to thrive.
**Do not wish for something else that you are not but become what you want to be. And remember, you are valuable. YOU ARE GOLD!**
It is almost the end of the pandemic year, 2021. We have lost friends, families, acquaintances. Really, life is tough and full of twists and turns. We all should be very thankful that we are still safe and breathing along with our families. Someone might be looking up and counting on you. Show your strength and courage. I'll pray for you.
Is there something else you wish I have told you? Have I succeeded in making you smile or brightening your day? I hope so!
Too-da-loo,
Glessa
The lead image was from Unsplash.com and the rest of the content are mine
December 2, 2021
Rusty, I have some items on my cart in Shopee!
I was really glad that he was upvoting my articles 2 or more times and I ended my November with flying colors, however, he seemed to have a change in behavior in the last few days of November.
I thought that he didn't like my articles but I checked the others as well. The upvotes significantly decreased on the last 2 or 3 days before the month ends. Maybe he is meeting and giving love to the newbies here? Or is he having hiccups just like what happened a few months back?.
And I am not bitter or something, I am happy that everyone has the opportunity to earn here. It is just that sometimes he tips more on articles that are sometimes a minute or less. Is he confused between read and noise? I hope the platforms' AI is still intelligent, lol. Is noise the new read now? Noise has this cool feature like free tips which I don't have yet but I've been given some by my cool friends. While read is acting strange.
I am crossing my fingers that read is undergoing some developments and this little nightmare will be over soon. I am hopeful that everything's gonna be okay in the next few days and that something positive is waiting for us. I don't wanna overthink, seriously. I don't want my worries to kill me. It's just read is my main course in this table called life.
And yup, please Rusty come back and let us know how to please you. I already added some items to my Shopee cart. I want to see my kids smile this Christmas, could your conscience bear to see the kids' sad faces? I promise you that those items on my cart were within my budget. I know I can achieve that amount because I have been doing better. Can you let me know whether I had to delete them, alright?
I can't have the same amount of earnings on noise because I don't have that lots of followers. So please Rusty pick yourself up, get back, and be your usual self again.
Hello mates, just had to release my angst lol. I hope you are all having a great time wherever you are.
Take care,
Glessa
The lead image and the rest of the content are mine.
Rusty is having an affair again :(
@jasglaybam
