Finding My Pace: A Beginner’s Journey

“Every runner begins with a single step.”

I didn’t start running to chase medals, rankings, or finish-line podium. I started running because I wanted to try—try something new, try something uncomfortable, and see what would happen if I simply showed up for myself.

The 33rd Yakult 10-Miler

My first fun run, the 33rd Yakult 10-Miler, felt like standing at the edge of something unfamiliar. The early morning sky was still quiet, the roads were filled with energy, and I was surrounded by people who all looked like they knew exactly what they were doing. I didn’t.

What I did have was curiosity and a little courage.

When the race started, I focused on one step at a time. I ran, I gasped, and I reminded myself that it was okay to slow down. Every mile came with a mix of doubt and determination—moments when my legs felt heavy, and moments when everything suddenly clicked. Crossing that finish line felt surreal. It wasn’t just relief; it was pride.

Somewhere between the starting line and the finish, I realized that running wasn’t about being fast. It was about staying present, listening to my body, and choosing not to quit. That day, a simple thought lingered with me: I think I’ll do this again.

@foaaanne
33rd Yakult 10-Miler.
♬ original sound – FoAnne – FoAnne

Haier Run for Future Possibilities 2025

By the time Haier Run 2025 arrived, I carried the lessons of my first race with me. I was still nervous—but this time, it felt different. The nerves came with confidence. I had proof now: I had done this before.

The run felt steadier. My breathing was more controlled, my pace more intentional. I knew when to push and when to ease up. Instead of fighting the discomfort, I learned to run alongside it. The finish line didn’t feel like an escape—it felt like a celebration.

These two fun runs became quiet milestones in my life. They became reminders that progress doesn’t have to be loud. Sometimes it’s measured in breaths caught, doubts silenced, and the simple decision to show up again.

Running has taught me patience. It has taught me to trust myself. Most of all, it has taught me that growth doesn’t require perfection—only persistence.

I’m still running.
Still learning.
Still smiling.

And yes—this is only the beginning. 🏃‍♀️✨

🏔 My 2025 Hiking Era: Chasing Summits and Sunsets

Breathe. Step. Repeat. That’s how you reach the top.

Hiiiiiiii!!! How’s everyone going?! It’s been so loooong!! How’s your October so far? How’s your 2025 going?

Remember those goals we set at the start of the year? Has anyone achieved theirs already—or almost there?

Well, I’m here to share mine. This year, I officially declared 2025 as my hiking era, and I’ve been embracing it fully—heart, soul, and sore legs included! 😆

Since sinabi ko nga na hiking era ko na ‘to, nag-invest talaga ako sa hiking gears: I bought hiking shoes, a sturdy bag, and a trekking pole. And honestly? I am so damn happy!

First Summit: Mt. Batulao | Month: January

New year, new heights—literally! When I said to myself that 2025 would be my hiking era, the universe must’ve heard me because my friend randomly messaged, “Hike tayo sa Batulao!” So I said, “Let’s goooo!”

Since it was January, the weather was cool, but the trail was a bit muddy from the previous rain. Still, it was a beautiful hike. Medyo hingal at first (it’s been a while since I last climbed), but the cold breeze made everything easier. Our guide kept reminding us to take it slow, rest if needed, and just enjoy the journey.

Super nervous here! (lol)
Oh I so love! 💕
Fight meeee!!
There she goes….
Rest for a while and enjoy everything.
Wohoooo!! Summit!
Old and new trail.

Mt. Batulao has been on my bucket list for so long—and finally, thank You, Lord, I made it!

Second Summit: Nasugbu Trilogy — Mt. Talamitam, Mt. Apayang, and Mt. Lantik | Month: February

Now this one… whew! This was my struggle hike. 😂

Three mountains in one day, under the blazing sun, with open trails and almost-summer heat. This hike tested my endurance and my willpower! But it was also extra special because more friends joined after seeing our Batulao adventure.

Despite the exhaustion, every step was worth it. The views, the laughter, and that feeling of accomplishment—priceless.

Oh, hey there!
The gang!
Take a rest and take a pic! 😉
Let’s swim after the long trail!
Hi.
I know you’re smiling.
Mt. Talamitam
Trio
Gorgeous.
We-hee! I love the adventurous me.
Thank you Lord for this.

Third Summit: Mt. Ulap | Month: March

This one stole my heart. 💙

Mt. Ulap is hands down my favorite so far. The weather was cool, the trail was relaxing, and everything about the experience felt spontaneous and magical.

As I said, the trio.
Oh I love the sunrise, the colors, the feelings and all of it!
This girl is happy.
❤️
Another summit.
Ang ganda mo naman.

Funny thing is—it wasn’t even our original plan! We were supposed to hike Mt. Mariglem, but due to some circumstances, our organizer suggested Mt. Ulap instead. Best. Decision. Ever.

One of my friends, who had always wanted to climb Mt. Ulap, joined us too, which made the experience even better. I fell in love with the mountain views, the crisp air, and the peace that only hiking can bring.

Fourth Summit: Mt. Mariglem | Month: July

Our Mt. Mariglem hike was another beautiful adventure! Thankfully, it didn’t rain (a small miracle in July 😂). The weather was perfect, not too hot, and we started early.

This hike had everything I love—gorgeous views, a river crossing, and an amazing group of people. It’s my second favorite for sure. By the end, my body was screaming in pain, but in the best way. The kind of tired that makes you feel alive.

I’m beyond grateful for the privilege to explore, for the strength to keep going, and for the freedom to chase summits. I’ve met so many wonderful people on the trail—each with their own stories, smiles, and reasons for climbing.

Before the year ends, I’m manifesting one more mountain… Mt. Pulag! (PLEASSSSSEEE!!!) 🙏✨

Huge shoutout to my hiking buddy, Jun — salamat for always guiding me, encouraging me, and making every trail lighter and more fun. Can’t wait for our next climb!

Forever Intertwined

In realms of hearts entwined, a tale of love,
Where stars above do shimmer and shine,
A bond that’s woven deep, like skies above,
Two souls in harmony, forever intertwined.

With every beat, a symphony of grace,
Love’s gentle touch, a tender embrace,
In laughter and in tears, a constant space,
Two lives together, finding solace’s embrace.

Through trials and storms, love stands the test,
A flame that burns, enduring and blessed,
In whispered words and gestures, confessed,
A journey of two hearts, forever pressed.

Oh, love’s sweet magic, a force divine,
In every touch, in every glance, it shines,
A dance of souls, an eternal sign,
In each other’s arms, forever, they recline.

Gratitude, Faith, and One More Day: My Takeaways from Ed Mylett

One of the podcasts that left a lasting impact on me this year is The Ed Mylett Show, particularly the episode titled “Why Most People Fail (And How You Can Win)”. This episode deeply resonated with me, and I’d love to share my personal takeaways—lessons that I believe can genuinely help anyone striving to live a more meaningful life.

Live with purpose and gratitude.
Always carry a sense of gratitude. Be thankful, stay humble, and never lose sight of your purpose. When you truly understand your “why,” everything else begins to align. Purpose gives direction; gratitude keeps you grounded.
Time is a greatest blessing.
Time is the most valuable resource we have—and once it’s gone, we can never get it back. Invest your time intentionally and give it to the people and experiences that truly matter. Be present, savor each moment, and treat time like the precious gift it is.
It is all about perspectives on what really matters in life.
It’s not about doing more—it’s about caring deeply about what really matters. As I read in The Subtle Art of Not Giving a Fck* by Mark Manson, the key to a meaningful life is giving a f*ck about fewer things—but making sure those few things are truly important.
If you’re a person of faith, you can’t lose.
This was one of the most powerful takeaways for me: if you’re a person of faith, you can never truly lose. Hand over the things you cannot control to God, and walk in trust. When you live with faith, you’re already walking in victory.
Hold on for one more day.
No matter how hard it gets—keep going. Keep moving, keep thriving. Sometimes, all it takes is holding on just one more day. And then another. Before you know it, you’ve come so far. Progress isn’t always loud, but it’s always worth it.
The greatest gift is one more day with your family.
Family is everything. They are our foundation, our core, and our biggest blessing. To have one more day to laugh, to talk, to simply be with them—is a gift that should never be taken for granted.
Everything you need is within you to be happy and to win.
You don’t need to search the world to find happiness or success. You already have the tools inside you—your strength, your faith, your resilience. Trust yourself.
Your decisions shape your destiny.
Every choice matters—big or small. The life you’re living right now is a product of your past decisions, and the future will be built on the ones you’re making today. So choose wisely. Be intentional.
Live in your own terms and not the expectation of others.
Stop living to meet other people’s expectations. This is your life. As long as you’re doing no harm, you have every right to create a life that feels true to you. Don’t let opinions cage your freedom. Own your story.
Let yourself experience happiness.
Buy the dress. Book that trip. Read that book. Dance. Laugh. Fall in love. Let yourself feel alive and free. Life is not just about responsibilities—it’s also about experiences. And joy. So let yourself live. And always, always be grateful.

This episode reminded me of what really matters. And in a world that often feels overwhelming and fast-paced, I think we all need that reminder: you already have what it takes to live fully, win greatly, and love deeply. 🧡

Written in the Stars

Chapter 1: The Encounter

The night was a vivid blur of light, music, and voices as Ella stood by the balcony of the rooftop party, the city skyline stretching endlessly beyond her. She barely heard the conversations buzzing around her; her mind was elsewhere, consumed by thoughts she couldn’t quite shake off. She didn’t know why she had come to the party. It wasn’t her scene. She preferred quiet corners of coffee shops, a book in hand, or solitary walks along the beach. Yet here she was, trapped in a whirlwind of energy she didn’t connect with.

Then, it happened.

Ella’s eyes drifted over the crowd, and for a moment, everything around her seemed to freeze. Across the room, standing near the edge of the terrace, someone was looking right at her. His gaze met hers like a silent invitation, a connection that she could feel despite the sea of people separating them. Time slowed as if the universe itself was holding its breath.

She could still remember that moment vividly—the way his eyes locked onto hers, how the noise of the world faded until only they existed. He was a stranger, someone she had never seen before, yet there was something familiar about him. She didn’t understand it, but she felt it. Like a story she had always known but forgotten. Like a fairytale she’d once read, but only now could relive.

Ella wanted to smile, to acknowledge the inexplicable connection that sparked between them, but embarrassment quickly enveloped her. What if he noticed her staring? What if he thought it was silly? She averted her gaze, heat rising to her cheeks, and tried to refocus on the people around her, the casual conversations that suddenly felt meaningless.

But she couldn’t help herself.

Her heart pounded in her chest as curiosity tugged at her. She took a quick glance, hoping he had turned away, hoping he hadn’t noticed her awkward reaction. But no—he was still watching her, still holding her captive in that brief, intense gaze. A small smile tugged at the corners of his lips, a knowing smile, as if he understood something she didn’t yet.

Ella’s breath caught in her throat. She didn’t know him, but something deep inside her recognized this feeling—the fluttering in her stomach, the electricity in the air. It was the kind of connection people wrote songs and poems about. It was the stuff of daydreams and whispered secrets. For a moment, it felt as though Cupid had drawn his bow, his arrow striking true, igniting something magical between two strangers.

She didn’t even know his name.

Chapter 2: Fading Moments

The rest of the night passed in a haze. Ella tried to focus on the conversations with her friends, tried to keep her attention on the laughter and clinking glasses around her. But her mind kept drifting back to him—back to the way his eyes had looked right into hers, as though he could see past the surface and into her thoughts.

She searched for him throughout the night, hoping for another stolen glance, another moment that could explain what she felt. But as the party wore on, the crowd thickened, and he disappeared into the sea of faces. She kept replaying that first encounter in her mind, over and over again, wishing she had done something—anything—to bridge the distance between them.

By the time the night came to an end, Ella found herself standing once more on the terrace, staring out at the glowing city below. The cool breeze brushed against her skin, but all she could think about was him. She hadn’t seen him again, and the moment they shared felt like it was slipping through her fingers like grains of sand.

How could something so brief feel so significant?

Her friends called to her, urging her to leave, and Ella reluctantly tore her gaze away from the crowd. As she turned to go, she felt an overwhelming sense of loss, as though she had just missed something important. Something irreplaceable.

Chapter 3: Echoes of a Fairytale

Days passed, but the memory of that night clung to her like a song she couldn’t stop humming. Ella couldn’t forget him, couldn’t shake the strange, dreamlike feeling that had washed over her in that fleeting moment. She went back to her routine—work, coffee shops, and weekend hikes—but there was always a quiet ache in the back of her mind.

What if she had spoken to him? What if she had walked across the terrace and asked his name, or simply smiled in return? Would that have changed everything? Would they have discovered that the connection between them was more than just a spark—a flame waiting to ignite?

It felt like a fairytale that she had woken up from too soon. And in the back of her heart, she wished she could turn back time, go back to that wondrous, magical scene and relive it all over again. The night played on repeat in her mind, the yearning to experience that sense of belonging once more growing stronger with each passing day.

Take me back to that moment, she would think when her mind wandered. Take me back to that night.

But time, as always, moved forward.

Chapter 4: A Chance Meeting

Months had passed, and the memory of that night had begun to fade, becoming more like a dream than something real. Ella tried to move on, convincing herself that it was just a fleeting moment of infatuation, nothing more. Life was too full of responsibilities and expectations to get lost in what-ifs.

But the universe, it seemed, had other plans.

One chilly evening, as she sat in her favorite café, sipping her coffee and flipping through the pages of a book, she felt a strange shift in the air. It was subtle, but it was enough to make her glance up. And there he was.

Sitting at the table across from hers.

Her heart leapt into her throat as recognition flooded through her. It was him—the stranger from the rooftop, the one who had held her gaze with such intensity months ago. He looked just as surprised as she did, his eyes widening as they locked onto hers once more.

This time, Ella didn’t look away.

And this time, he smiled—genuinely, openly—and stood up, walking toward her as if he had been waiting for this moment just as long as she had.

“Hi,” he said, his voice warm and familiar, as though they had known each other for years.

Ella smiled, her heart racing but her voice steady. “Hi.“

It was only two words, but in that moment, they both knew.

This was only the beginning.

Wander

It’s one of those days I don’t know what’s up.
Just one of those days where everything seems off and nothing goes right.
Maybe this is just how life is supposed to be?
Maybe one day I’ll find the answer,
But until then, I’ll just keep wandering.
All I can do now is keep moving forward and hope for the best.
Or maybe I just need a little travel
My whole being is screaming “Let’s get away!”

You Are My Home

Tangled sheets
And messy hair.
Your warmth and your scent
Make me giggle.
Crazy banters and waves of laughter,
Conversations that made my heart flutter.
Sometimes sarcasm here and there
And let’s not forget the snuggles and cuddles.
Tight hugs and sweet little kisses-
Oh! how I love them too!
And babe, I want you to know
And this will remain true
That during the good and the bad
I’ll stand by you no matter what!
And wait, there is more-
Snore and forevermore;
I don’t mind spending this kind of Sunday with you
Because I know you are my home.

Life Lately | 03

How is everyone? It’s been a while since my last blog post and my last version of Life Lately. So, this is the update that no one asked for. (lol)

There are lots of things that have happened since last year. We experienced a pandemic and lockdown which until now, everything is not yet back to normal. There are still some restrictions, minimal movements, and wearing a mask is still mandatory. But despite what happened or what is happening, we can still cope up, right? We can still be able to pay our bills, we still have the chance to travel if we follow safety protocols, and we can still find happiness amidst the global pandemic.

A lot of changes take place, people come and go, friends and colleagues saying goodbyes. But that’s how life rolls. All we must do is to keep moving forward and carry on. There are ups and downs, twists and turns, heart-breaking moments, failures, but there are also small wins that deserve to be celebrated.

Here are the highlights of my 2021 so far.

My best friend got married. My best friend for a lifetime already got married last January 10,2021. We have been best friends since high school. I have seen her heart broken and I have seen her cry as well for so many times but she’s still able to open her heart and to love again. She is so dear to me so I am beyond happy that finally she found his partner that she can share her life with. I wish the best of marriage life for them. And I know that although she is already married, nothing will change between us. Besties for life!

The best friend's wedding. — Best friend’s wedding

Happy Endings. Just like what I shared in my last blog post, Happy Endings I have already resigned to TeleTech which has been my home for the last 7 years. TeleTech is the first and last BPO company that I’ve been with. This company enhanced both my professional and personal skills that I can use in my future endeavors. I also met a lot of people in this company whom I became good friends with and still part of my life up until now and with that I am forever grateful.

New Beginnings. It is always a good feeling to start anew. I read a quote before saying to not afraid to begin again since we are not going to start from scratch, this time we are going to start from experience. And I couldn’t agree more on that. Since I resigned from my previous company, I decided to try being a virtual assistant. Several of my friends are already into it and because of the pandemic as well, it is much safer to work in the comfort of our own homes. I will miss the office life but who wouldn’t want to binge-watch Netflix on the side while working? I started to send my applications online, take assessments here and there, attended so many zoom interviews, got rejected on some, and luckily, got hired last April. I am working on two clients right now and both are for part-time positions. I am still learning how to do well in this new job of mine and I am also getting new skills to get more clients. Hustle hard and do more!

“Never underestimate the power you have to take your life in a new direction.”

― Germany Kent

Living on my Own. Since I started my home-based job, the internet is the basic requirement for that. We don’t have any internet connection in my parent’s house where I currently live since the area is not serviceable yet. At the start of the pandemic, we rented an apartment together with my cousin because of the lockdown. It is so hard to travel from one place to another given that there are a lot of restrictions before. Things happened; the mom of my cousin’s boyfriend also moved in with us, so the place got a little bit crowded. I need a place that is more comfortable because of the nature of my new job, so I moved out. I looked for a place of my own and I found one. I would say that I am living quite independently now, paying my bills and rent but still trying to figure out life.

Tattoos. Mid-2020 and early 2021, I got my tattoos- three in total. My tattoos are on both arms, two baybayin, and one sunflower. Some people asked me why I got a tattoo. HAHA There is no particular reason, I just want to have one (well, in fact, three LOL) Getting a tattoo is painful, and of course, you have to think about what kind of tattoo you would like so there will be no regrets at all. The original plan was that I wanted my first tattoo to be done by Apo Whang-Od but then lockdown happened so, when my team leader got a tattoo, I decided to get one as well. And no, I am not planning to have another set of tattoos, not at this time at least. Hehe

Podcast for my Blog. I just discovered recently here in WordPress that you can create a podcast for your blog posts. There is an option to automatically convert the blog post into audio or you can also record that yourself. I created an account under Anchor for my podcast and it is also available on 5 platforms -Breaker, Google Podcast, Pocket Casts, Radio Public, and of course, Spotify. You can always find all the links of my podcast on my Anchor profile, at anchor.fm/flory-anne-catamora.

One Piece. I got hooked to K-Drama before, binge- watch American series on Netflix and now I started to love watching Anime. I am currently into One Piece, the Straw Hat Crew- Luffy and his gang. I love the storyline and the characters. Some episodes brought me to tears like the Ennies Lobby Arc, the appearance of Going Merry again, and Fire Fist Ace death. My heart got broken into a million pieces in these episodes.

I guess these are all the happenings in my life so far that are worth sharing. We are already halfway through 2021, and I believe that there will be a lot going on. Be it failures, challenges, victories, and everything in between, always find the courage to go on and face life with positivity. May you find happiness in everything that you do. Roads may be a little bumpy sometimes, but I know that in God’s grace and in God’s perfect time, we can achieve what we aim for. For now, enjoy the journey and the people that you will meet along the way. Be happy and live in the moment -it is all that matters.

How is life for you? Share your thoughts!

Happy Endings

Teletech has been my home for the past 7 years. I started with a US account which is healthcare. The account is straightforward I would say, especially when we are speaking to providers. We will have to quote the patient’s benefits and explain why their claim was denied. I’ve spent four years on this account, I just got tired, and I realized that I am no longer growing professionally. I lost my motivation back then, so I decided to take a break. I resigned.

After 5 months, I applied again and got re-hired in an Australian account. With this, I struggled a lot. I got frustrated that I was not able to hit my metrics unlike before on my previous account. I cried multiple times, and I will not be able to make it without those people who helped me to cope up. To my supports and SMEs, to my team leads who always checks on me, does one-on-one coaching, who motivates me every day and who believes that I can excel on this account, I am so thankful.

I’ve been transferred to EPR which handles repeat callers and resolves complaints. It’s quite easy for me now, I guess I already got used to it. With that, I was able to get awards as Top 10 consultants every month, Top 10 with the Highest FCR and Most Improved Agent. I am so happy.

We’ve transitioned from complaints to one service wherein we’re going to generate sales as well. With the guidance of my supervisor and our Sales Champ I was able to generate sales though.

We know for a fact that a certain account can be just temporary, and there are also some instances that are already beyond our control. Our account got dissolved, so we have to transfer to a different account again. And then a pandemic happened, some of my teammates were able to work from home under a different account while me and the rest of the team were transferred to collections account.

In this account, the volume of calls is just way too much. And the metrics that you need to hit also add to the stress. I was totally burned out and drained, I guess that is the reason I resigned on this account. The way I felt way back then is also the same feeling that I had now when I resigned last Friday.

That is my TeleTech journey. TeleTech has been my comfort zone for the past 7 years of my life. Because of this company, I met a lot of wonderful people who are still part of my life until now, and friends who are really for keeps. I also gained life experiences which mold me for who I am today. I obtained enough knowledge because of my previous accounts that I can use for my future endeavors. And with that, I am forever grateful.

Thank you TTEC. Oracle ID 2107965 is now signing off.

Everglow

How beautiful the moon tonight.
And you just slipped on my mind.
Do you still think our happy times?
Or you just let it go like pixie dust?

Are you doing just fine?
Are you happy or are you sad?
I wonder if you’ve already got your dreams come true.
I hope so, because I’m rooting for you.

I hope you’re living your life
Chasing your dreams, and
Gets everything done.
That is my wish to the moon right now.

And always wear your beautiful smile
I want you happy all the time.
Though fate is not good to us
Still, I treasure you with all my heart.