Losing the Craving for Bulad: A Taste That Faded Over Time

There was a time when bulad (dried fish) was one of my all-time favorite Pinoy foods. The crispy texture, the salty umami taste, and that distinct aroma—nothing could beat a simple meal of bulad, rice, and vinegar dipping sauce. It was my comfort food, something I always looked forward to. But as the years passed,… Continue reading Losing the Craving for Bulad: A Taste That Faded Over Time

Chinagarten in Ummeln: A Hidden Gem for Chinese Food Lovers

When it comes to Chinese food, Chinagarten in Ummeln is our go-to spot. It may not have the Mongolian buffet like some larger restaurants, but that doesn’t take away from the experience. What it lacks in variety, it makes up for in quality, taste, and a welcoming atmosphere. Every visit leaves us full, satisfied, and… Continue reading Chinagarten in Ummeln: A Hidden Gem for Chinese Food Lovers

Once Upon a Time in Seville, Spain

In November 2018, my husband and I took a journey we had talked about for months. It was the kind of trip we’d dreamt of on cold evenings, wrapped in blankets, wondering where the sun might be shining at that very moment. That’s what drew us to Seville, Spain. We had heard the weather there… Continue reading Once Upon a Time in Seville, Spain

The Beauty of Fall

October has always been a special month for me, and this year, it was made even more memorable by the beauty of fall and the time I spent with my daughter. There’s something magical about the crisp air, the golden hues, and the vibrant leaves that make fall feel like a season of endless possibilities.… Continue reading The Beauty of Fall

An Unforgettable Train Ride to Osnabrück

It was a beautiful Saturday in October, the kind of autumn day where the crisp air carries a hint of warmth, and the golden hues of the season make everything feel magical. The weather was just perfect—not too cold, not too hot—making it an ideal day for an adventure. I decided to take my daughter… Continue reading An Unforgettable Train Ride to Osnabrück

The Benefits of Planting in the Garden

Gardening is a wonderful activity that brings many benefits. It is not just about growing food but also about spending time outside, learning, and enjoying nature. We have three raised garden beds, and every year, we plant different vegetables and fruits. It is always exciting to see how the plants grow and what we can… Continue reading The Benefits of Planting in the Garden

Navigating My Baby’s Separation Anxiety

When I first experienced my baby’s separation anxiety, it hit me like a wave I wasn’t expecting. I thought it would be just a phase—something I could easily manage—but the truth is, it’s a whole journey of emotions for both of us. Watching my baby cry when I walked out of the room or left… Continue reading Navigating My Baby’s Separation Anxiety

The Benefits of Business Trips: A Personal Perspective

As a mother, balancing family life with my career can sometimes feel like a juggling act. One of the most challenging aspects is having to leave my family, especially my daughter, behind for business trips. Although I find it difficult to be away from them, I’ve learned to see the value and benefits that these… Continue reading The Benefits of Business Trips: A Personal Perspective

The Importance of Sleep for Infants

Getting enough sleep is crucial for overall health and well-being, especially for an infant who is in a critical phase of development. Sleep plays a pivotal role in supporting physical growth, cognitive function, and emotional regulation. One of the primary benefits of sufficient sleep is its impact on the baby’s growth. During sleep, the body… Continue reading The Importance of Sleep for Infants

The Four Rooms Model: Understanding Change and Growth

Change is a constant part of life, whether in personal growth, relationships, or the workplace. However, people experience change in different ways, and their reactions can determine success or failure. The Four Rooms Model, also known as the Four Rooms of Change, helps explain how individuals and organizations move through different emotional and mental states… Continue reading The Four Rooms Model: Understanding Change and Growth

The Role of Inner Teams in Understanding Thoughts, Feelings, and Motivations

When we talk about “inner teams,” we are often referring to the various aspects of ourselves that shape our thoughts, emotions, and behaviors. These inner teams consist of different parts of our psyche, each representing a unique perspective, motivation, or emotional response. Understanding how these internal teams interact can help us gain a deeper understanding… Continue reading The Role of Inner Teams in Understanding Thoughts, Feelings, and Motivations

The Fishbowl Model: A Simple Approach to Learning and Collaboration

The Fishbowl model is an innovative and dynamic approach to learning and collaboration. It is widely used in educational settings, corporate training, and group discussions. Its beauty lies in its simplicity and flexibility. By using a small group of people to discuss a topic while others observe, the Fishbowl method allows for an engaging exchange… Continue reading The Fishbowl Model: A Simple Approach to Learning and Collaboration

The Radical Candor Model: Balancing Honesty with Care

Giving and receiving feedback is one of the most challenging aspects of communication, especially in the workplace. People often struggle to be honest because they fear hurting others, while some are too blunt and come across as harsh. The Radical Candor model, developed by Kim Scott, offers a simple yet powerful approach to balancing honesty… Continue reading The Radical Candor Model: Balancing Honesty with Care

The SMART Model: A Simple Formula for Achieving Goals

Setting goals is essential for success, but not all goals are effective. Some are too vague, others lack direction, and many are difficult to measure. This is where the SMART model comes in. It provides a clear structure for goal-setting, making it easier to track progress and stay motivated. SMART stands for Specific, Measurable, Achievable,… Continue reading The SMART Model: A Simple Formula for Achieving Goals

The SCARF Model: Understanding Human Social Behavior

The SCARF model is a powerful tool for understanding human behavior, especially in social and workplace settings. Developed by neuroscientist David Rock, this model explains five key domains that influence how people react to situations and interact with others. These five factors—Status, Certainty, Autonomy, Relatedness, and Fairness—shape human motivation, decision-making, and emotional responses. By understanding… Continue reading The SCARF Model: Understanding Human Social Behavior

Graduating from the Digital Champions Program: A Journey of Growth and Innovation

From July 1st to 3rd, 2024, I had the privilege of graduating from my company’s Digital Champions Program in the vibrant city of Berlin. This marked the culmination of an incredible seven-month journey, where I, along with participants from different sites around the globe, worked together online to build the skills needed to lead in… Continue reading Graduating from the Digital Champions Program: A Journey of Growth and Innovation

A Parisian Journey: Love, Milestones, and Timeless Magic

July 2020 brought a kind of excitement that had been missing for a while. The world had slowed down, changed in unexpected ways, and the idea of travel had become something many only dreamed of. But my husband and I decided to turn that dream into a quiet reality. We packed our bags, filled the… Continue reading A Parisian Journey: Love, Milestones, and Timeless Magic

A Summer to Remember in Budapest

In July 2019, my husband and I set off on a six-day journey to Budapest, Hungary, turning both his birthday and our 12th anniversary into a celebration of discovery and relaxation. We chose the Radisson Blu as our base, where the stylish setting and exceptional service made us feel right at home. The warm summer… Continue reading A Summer to Remember in Budapest

Bella’s Second Trip to Amsterdam: A Different Adventure

Returning to Amsterdam with our little Bella for the second time felt both familiar and new. This time, she was no longer the tiny baby who simply observed the world from the comfort of a stroller. At 17 months old, she was now a little explorer, full of energy, curiosity, and, of course, the occasional… Continue reading Bella’s Second Trip to Amsterdam: A Different Adventure

Sunny Days Ahead: Terrace Lounging and Ice Cream Delights

One of the things we cherish most about good weather is the chance to relax on our terrace. It’s a cozy spot where we can unwind, surrounded by the calming sounds and beauty of nature. Whether we’re sipping a cold drink or basking in the sun, there’s no better place to be on a perfect… Continue reading Sunny Days Ahead: Terrace Lounging and Ice Cream Delights

Bella’s First Visit to Berlin: A Special Family Trip

Taking Bella to Berlin for the first time was more than just a family trip—it was a milestone for all of us. I had my Digital Champion Program graduation in the city, and while the event itself was important, what mattered most to me was having my family by my side. At 16 months old,… Continue reading Bella’s First Visit to Berlin: A Special Family Trip

Breaking Free from Beauty Standards: How They Affect Self-Esteem of Filipinas

In the Philippines where I came from, beauty standards play a significant role in how people perceive themselves and others. Society has a clear image of what is considered beautiful—fair skin, slim bodies, straight hair, and features that align with Western ideals. This definition of beauty is often showcased in media, advertising, and even on… Continue reading Breaking Free from Beauty Standards: How They Affect Self-Esteem of Filipinas

Traffic Laws and Public Behavior in Germany vs. the Philippines

Germany has some of the strictest and most well-enforced traffic laws in the world. The rules here ensure not just the safety of drivers and pedestrians but also maintain order, efficiency, and respect on the roads. One of the key aspects that differentiates Germany from countries like the Philippines is how traffic accidents are handled… Continue reading Traffic Laws and Public Behavior in Germany vs. the Philippines

Finding Balance: Cherishing Weekends and Generous Leave in Germany for Family Time

In Germany, where I work, I’ve come to appreciate something that may seem simple but has a huge impact on my life: weekends and generous vacation days. As an employee, having two days off every week and 30 days of annual leave has really improved my work-life balance, especially when it comes to spending quality… Continue reading Finding Balance: Cherishing Weekends and Generous Leave in Germany for Family Time

You Want Respect at Work, But You Don’t Respect the Work

Let’s have an honest conversation. You want respect at work. You want your boss to value your voice. You want your team to treat you like your presence matters. And you should want those things—every employee deserves to be treated with respect. But here’s the uncomfortable truth: some people demand respect without showing they respect… Continue reading You Want Respect at Work, But You Don’t Respect the Work

The Vital Role of Sleep for Adults

Getting enough sleep is vital for adults to maintain overall health and well-being. Sleep isn’t just a luxury; it’s a necessity that plays a crucial role in various aspects of our lives. One of the primary benefits of sufficient sleep for adults is improved physical health. During sleep, the body works to repair tissues, build… Continue reading The Vital Role of Sleep for Adults

Fueling Recovery: The Power of Postpartum Nutrition

After birth, the focus naturally shifts to the baby—feeding, sleeping, growing, thriving. But while everyone is watching the newborn, there’s another body quietly in need of care and attention: the mother’s. Postpartum healing is more than just waiting for stitches to dissolve or the uterus to shrink. It’s a full-body recovery, and one of the… Continue reading Fueling Recovery: The Power of Postpartum Nutrition

Who Am I Now? Navigating the Postpartum Identity Shift

No one tells you that becoming a mother can make you feel like you’ve lost yourself. The baby arrives, and while your heart may stretch with more love than you ever imagined, your sense of self can start to quietly fade. It’s not just about lack of sleep, physical healing, or adjusting to a new… Continue reading Who Am I Now? Navigating the Postpartum Identity Shift

Running on Empty: The Real Impact of Postpartum Sleep Deprivation

Everyone tells new parents, “Sleep when the baby sleeps.” It’s well-meaning advice, often delivered with a smile and a shrug, as if it’s just part of the deal. But the reality of postpartum sleep deprivation goes far beyond being tired. It’s not just about needing a nap — it’s a physical, mental, and emotional strain… Continue reading Running on Empty: The Real Impact of Postpartum Sleep Deprivation

Learning to Love the Mirror Again: The Truth About Postpartum Body Image

The moment a baby is born, so is a mother. And with that birth often comes a new relationship with her body—one that can be unexpectedly complicated. Postpartum body image is something rarely talked about in honest terms. It tends to get overshadowed by baby milestones, feeding schedules, and sleepless nights. But for many mothers,… Continue reading Learning to Love the Mirror Again: The Truth About Postpartum Body Image