Summer Upon Us! — Kate The Great

Lately, I've been lacking some inspiration because of how lax, uncertain and unadventurous things have been and can be. I'm writing this because I think it's important to remind everyone how valuable self-reflection is especially in times of doubt and disappointment. Sometimes we forget to do some reflection and only do so when certain expectations aren't met. Taking a step back and detecting what went wrong and why are essential. I find writing them out — all my sentiments, questions and concerns — very cathartic. It helps me think straight and plan ahead with an open mind and heart.

Looking back I realize how complacent I used to be — a trait and lifestyle I never want to revert back to. I used to live in the confines of fear or what I call the limiting yet safe bubble. Summer is a dangerous time if you live complacently. As I got older, I faced some life-changing criticism, which I did not appreciate at first. I was told that I was not capable of doing a lot of things...that I should have already known given my age and expectations set back then. I did not know how to travel on my own, actively plan or initiate activities with others, lacked the aggression that others had, etc... I lacked a certain mindset, but eventually when I experienced losses and got to a point where I so badly wanted to prove myself and others wrong, I confronted it with absolute determination and care. I realized that I could construct something positive out of this heartbreaking comment for my own personal growth. Ever since, I told myself that I won't let a day pass without overcoming or accomplishing at least one thing. And summer happens to be the perfect time to do just that. 🙌

Because I want to have a meaningful summer, I make a conscious effort to keep myself busy by actively planning my days, weeks and months and committing to these plans. When I'm not as busy, it feels strange not having much to do. It drives me crazy when I'm not preoccupied or being productive because planning and constantly being-on-the-go have become a huge part of me and my daily life. Somehow, these habits I developed through the years have changed me as a whole person and affected the different roles I play. However, there are still times (like now) when I feel like I fall short in some things (i.e. fail to stick to my schedule). I'm always craving for more, for the best (i.e. self-improvement) that I tend to forget to acknowledge how far I've actually come.

Last Friday, I had the most spontaneous, thrilling and unexpectedly, best beach trip to Tagaytay and Balai Isabel. This day trip reminded me of how far I've come in life based on how I handled my fear of heights and being in the open ocean amidst a thunderstorm. This is just an aside but I think we can all agree that most of us are our own worst critics; it's vital that we all find ways to acknowledge our improvements, instead of hammering down just the negatives. Maybe you should try writing your feelings out as an exercise if you find yourself caught up in negativity.

So, when Anton and his friends picked me up, I felt quite nervous at first because I only knew Ton and worried about this trip being a flop if things didn't turn out the way we'd like them to. I was even concerned that there was no actual plan or itinerary to follow. However, it turned out to be the most exciting and eventful trip to date. We dropped by Sky Ranch for lunch and headed over to Balai Isabel, which was Sarah's brilliant idea, by the way! We spent hours on the floating, inflatable Aqua Park; I felt like I was on the gameshow Wipeout! The obstacle course was quite scary...anyone could easily fall into the water, but as I got the hang of things, it became fun and suddenly, I didn't mind falling anymore. As I climbed onto this high, monstrous-looking slide, the heavy rain began and lightning struck nearby... I freaked out but continued climbing its slippery wall until I made it to the top of the slide. I fell and missed a step, but hung on to the rope and made my way back up. It felt like one of those scenes from Titanic. Amidst a thunderstorm, I slid down the slide and never felt a strong mix of emotions: fear, adrenaline, and so much thrill! Ton, Sarah, John and I tripped our way to the trampoline and jumped until we grew tired. It felt so good to feel raindrops on my skin! In that moment, I was exhausted and afraid but also never felt so happy and alive! These are the kind of moments I cherish! After hours of playing in the rain and aqua park, we left Balai and stopped over Streat for dinner (by the way, you guys have to try Streat food).

As we made our way back home, some guy stopped our car and told us to get off immediately. I freaked out and my panty almost fell again for the millionth time! It turns out an electric line fell in the middle of the road during the storm (bless that man's soul for stopping us). Ton, Sarah, John and I left the car as it drove away from the sight. We all held hands, avoided the puddles, screamed and ran as far as possible from the sizzling electric line, which looked like it was going to explode any minute then. Luckily, we got back to the car safely...far away from the sight. 😂

It was definitely a day filled with fun, adrenaline and adventure! That night, I slept with a smile on my face realizing how much I've changed and how far I've come. The fears I thought I had were no longer fears that hindered me from living life. I made new friends whom I'm so fond of thanks to Anton and our great adventure! 🙆

If you haven't already, I hope you all experience something like this someday! Just make sure you come out alive, of course! 😜 Life is meant to be fun and exciting -- always remember that!

Oh and HAGS! 🙊