I am grateful for

Manoy Toben and I, Desert Safari, Dubai, 2019

Even though I am very far from my family during the pandemic, I am still grateful that I live in a place where I feel safe and comfortable. And I am willing to take this opportunity to learn to live simply just being at home and learning how to deal with simple household chores. I would like to think that taking a responsibility for some chores would help me get ready for the future - who knows.

The coffee shop nearby where I go and visit sometimes on Friday or Saturday mornings. Sometimes I think it's good to be out (and cautious) and see the outside world. I like spending early mornings in a cafe, reading a book, having my cup of coffee and a cookie to pair with, while also watching the city slowly gets busier as the day progresses.

I have witnessed that the company that I work for is not only customer-centric but also people-centric. I admire our CEO's positivity most especially during the pandemic. I hope things would get better very soon.

I am grateful for the fresh produce available in nearby markets. I love spending my early weekend mornings at the market and get home to prepare my meals for the weekend and weekday cooking veggies. They make me happy and feel healthy.

Fiction. I can escape the harsh reality for a while and be in a different world in my books! It helps me get inspired and think less about the stressors that surround me. 

The people who matter most to me are healthy and doing their own ways to stay healthy and not get too depressed about this virus and its effects in our lives: means of living, less freedom o move around, etc. My family, most especially, have their ways to get creative, responsible, and happy despite the global situation that we are in. We are always sharing pictures of recipes cooked/baked, gardening, music, etc. I think having a positive mindset would ease the stress in life brought by COVID.