To celebrate a year of dating and loving, Jan and I decided to climb Mt. Puting Bato - Samal Island's highest peak. Just so you know, Mt. Puting Bato is only 1,755 ft above sea level. It's not that high but this is where I was able to put into heart what other experienced mountaineers always remind me: Never underestimate a mountain.

Now let me tell you about a misadventure that took place on the first day of May that could've cost our lives. Okay, I am just exaggerating. But yes, it could have, if we aren't really prepared and smart enough to outwit trouble.

Our plan was to hike Mt. Puting Bato via Tayapoc trail because basing from our research, it is only a 30-minute hike but steeper compared to Guilon trail which is a 2-hour easy ascent. We, of course, chose the shorter trail to save time as we still have other places to go to.

I remember the times I get tongue-tied whenever I am asked, "kailan kayo naging kayo?"  That is probably the easiest question any couple will come across with. Not in our case though. We're just as clueless as anybody who would ask us the same question.

Kailan nga ba?  

Honestly, I do not know exactly when because at some point of our friendship, it just happened. Nothing was ever forced. We were like magnets pulled together in a force we can never break away from. Courtship never even happened - which is actually a good thing because Jan never had to put his best foot forward. But I do remember that a year ago, today, Jan and I made it official for formality's sake. It was nothing cheesy nor romantic at that time. The date didn't even matter.

So it follows we don't celebrate 'monthsaries' either. We think it's rather pointless to count the months that we are together, isn't it? I used to make a big deal out of monthsaries back when I was young and all that mattered to me was that it's something that's befitting for couples in love. Not until I met Jan.

"Kung gamay mog itlog pangihi mo sa balete."

That's what I have learned from our 4-day trip in Camiguin. Haha. Kidding aside, this is the first time I have ever visited Northern Mindanao and it was definitely a blast. Camiguin island indeed has a lot of beautiful and interesting places to see. So without further ado, let me show you my short but memorable trip to Camiguin.

WARNING: IMAGES OVERLOAD

While everybody was on a holiday break yesterday, I was out working. And while everyone is working today I'm home and reflecting. The past months have really been a blast. With all those getaways and new things that I have tried, I am seeing my old, free-spirited self again.

After an exhausting hike at Lake Holon/Mt. Parker and rewarding ourselves with a much needed rest, we went to Lake Sebu the next day to experience the Seven Falls zipline. Just so you know, ziplines no longer excite me. As a matter of fact, I find them boring. The only time a zipline gave me the thrills was the first time I tried it and the rest didn't really satisfy my appetite for adventure and adrenaline. The Seven Falls zipline, however, is by far the best zipline I have ever tried.

First Leg: 740m ride

Not because it is considered as one of the highest ziplines in Asia nor because it is known as one of the longest in the country, nor because of its speed if you consider that fast, but because of the scenic and breathtaking view of the different waterfalls it offers you while on the ride. The ride was so exhilarating and the views are equally enthralling it can literally take your breath away. We're so happy we've tried this. Look, the pictures will tell you so. :)

What have I gotten myself into?

I have asked myself that question a thousand times during our hike to Mt. Parker. And even before we started hiking, the road to the jump off point was already unforgiving. More than an hour of dusty habal-habal ride was just enough for my nostrils to gather up dusts and turn it into the biggest snot I ever had my entire life. Gross, I know. Haha.

2015 is going pretty well for me. And it is just getting better with all the holidays, not to mention, long weekends that lined up this year. Looking at the calendar, I see mine with a lot of days marked with a fat red circle. April certainly is going to be helluva fun.

The past few days or perhaps weeks have been so dragging not only because I am dying of boredom with my idle hours at work, but also because I had been looking forward to the holidays. You know how it goes when you're too excited about something, time will seem to play in on you that the days run so painfully slow.

Happy 30th birthday to my best friend, my confidant, my mentor, my challenger, my bully, my biking buddy, my travel mate, my panda bear, my pillow, and of course, my inspiration. You have always been my rock. And even though I don't really like relying on other people, I seem to rely on you so much. Yes, you are spoiling me, so thank you. Haha.

Aside from the 100-peso ukay-ukay jacket that I inadvertently got for your birthday which is really not useful for every day use, and since I got nothing else better to give, here's just a simple post to let you know that I am indeed very thankful for all the things you do. :)

Thank you lab for being there for me, not because you have to but because you want to.

Thank you for your messages that fire up my lazy mornings.

How I wish I can.

Just when you feel that everything around is trying to crush your spirit and put you down, you will realize that people who suck the life out of you actually exist. Sometimes it makes me wonder how people can actually take advantage of your kindness just to get what they want and feel no remorse about it.