The Blossoms of April: A Journal

( Last Week of April 2024) – Island Rekindling: Back on Court

The last week of April has been incredibly productive for me. One of my main goals while living on this island was to reignite my passion for my original (original?, Maja’s voice popping out my brain cells lol hahaha 😅) sport from my elementary school days. Basta, that was the sport when I am in 6th grade. My father used to train me in this. This sport brought me to different places like Bogo where I came out the champion and Ronda where I finished third place. Those were my core memories. (charrowt ba, haha 😅) And now, 21 years later, let’s just say I’m a bit rusty – muscle memory can only take me this far, lol Haha😅! But I was determined to get back into the swing of things, and I finally managed to hit the courts for a game of lawn tennis.

( Third Week of April 2024) – Island Life Perks: Grilled Balut and a Sunset Spectacle

Speaking of treats, the transition to island life has already brought some delightful surprises. When 5 in the afternoon ticks in, I usually head straight home after work. But this time, things were different. I snagged a ride with my sister and her family, and guess what? They stopped by the baywalk! This is where the real treat came in – grilled balut! There was a whole trend of grilled balut a while back, and even though I’m a little late to the party, this was actually my first time trying it. (HEHE! 😅) For those unfamiliar, it’s a fertilized duck egg, a local delicacy _{(that might sound intimidating at first.)} This one was cooked differently from the regular boiled balut. It was cooked over charcoal, which gave it a smoky smell and a bit of crisp on the outside. (But I think it’s likely boiled first then grilled! LOL correct me if I’m wrong HAHA! 😅) The vendor cracked the top open of the egg then smothered it with a scoop of delicious spicy garlic sauce. However, I was a bit sad that it wasn’t hot – for me, eating balut is much better when it’s hot (” because good soup – good soup chef kiss 🤌” haha! 😅). Nevertheless, the flavor was garlicky spicy delicious, especially with a dash of vinegar, salt, and chili. I ended up ordering two! Another surprise? Apparently, plastic spoons are the go-to utensil for eating balut here in Bantayan Island, which I found surprisingly convenient.

As I munched on my balut, the sun began to set. The view was incredible – kites danced in the air, birds flew overhead returning home, and the calm easterlies created a cloudless sky, offering a perfect view of the sun dipping below the horizon over the tranquil sea. Ghaaaad, it was such a moment that made me realize I’m home, here in Bantayan Island. 💖

( Second Week of April 2024) – Back to the Island: A New Chapter in Bantayan

Wow, it’s been a while! It feels like forever since my last post. _{(heave a sigh😤)} The first quarter was a whirlwind of emotions leading to some big changes. I recently resigned from my previous job, 😲 and guess what? An amazing opportunity opened up for me to work in my beautiful hometown in Bantayan Island. In 2022, I made a post about how I really dreamed of working in Bantayan, and finally the universe conspired to make my heart’s desire come true. It’s truly an answered prayer. ❤️

As I grow older, I have realized that it’s tough to struggle with mental stress from work. It takes a toll on my well-being, and for me, the challenges and constant pressure become overwhelming. Deciding to embrace change and pursue a new path has been incredibly liberating. Finding a job that allows me to work in Bantayan Island might put me back in my comfort zone, but that’s not a bad thing! Bantayan has so much to offer, and I have a ton of adventures planned. So stay tuned for more updates on my island escapades. 😍

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RELATED ARTICLE : I STOOD UP IN BANTAYAN SEA, A MEMORABLE FEAT

I’m feeling grateful for this island life and all the unexpected adventures it throws my way. So long, April, you were awesome! See you all for some epic May adventures – woohoo! ❤️