I can truly say that "WE MADE IT!" 365 out of 365 and we're all here. Thank you, Jesus! It's been a good run and now we're waving good bye to 2018. Year of opportunities. Yes, this year opened doors that led me to different experiences in life. Experiences that allowed me to see the world, encounter new people, and enjoy this journey with the people I love. Last year-end post, I asked for 2018 to be better than 2017, and I got my wish. 2018 was a leveled up version of 2017.
New sponsors and new teams to work with, new and old places to visit, plenty of pleasures in life to indulge myself with, and of course lots of things to be thankful for, all of those were crossed out by 2018 because I got the chance to grab every opportunity that came my way. A few of those, I'll mention below and share the highlights of the good things God has given me for the past 12 months:
OPPORTUNITY # 1: TRIP TO BANGKOK (again!) - Pulses
I was able to be a part of saving the world by eating pulses and even went to Bangkok, Thailand. Spent the last two days in Bangkok, Thailand 🇹🇭 learning and trying out “superfoods” aka pulses (such as dry peas, lentils, red beans, and chickpeas). I’m really grateful to be a part of this event because it is in line with my goal this year to live healthy.
http://www.rochellerivera.com/2018/02/saving-world-by-eating-pulses.html
Watch my vlog on YouTube
OPPORTUNITY # 2: TRIP TO JAPAN (again!) - Wacoal
Wacoal products in the Philippines are jaw-droppingly beautiful but when I got the chance to see how they we're made in Kyoto, Japan, I was beyond stunned. The place was huge and remarkable. The staff of Wacoal we're nice and very accommodating. It's refreshing to visit Japan again, I'm super thankful to Wacoal for inviting me to join their Wacoal Factory tour.
http://www.rochellerivera.com/2018/03/KYOTO-TOUR.html
OPPORTUNITY # 3: NUFFIE AWARDS 2018
Another highlight of my 2018 is the support of the people who believed in me and trusted me! You guys are the best! And because of that, I was nominated for Nuffie Awards 2018 of Nuffnang, but sadly, now they're close. Still, it was an honor to be nominated for such an award, though I didn't win because, I, myself, also wanted someone more deserving to receive that award, I am super grateful for the overflowing love and support from the people who voted for me.
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OPPORTUNITY # 4: TRIP TO TAIWAN
Our trip to Taiwan was a mini family escapade that I'll forever cherish. I got the chance to visit new places that are fresh for the eyes. Though, I wasn't able to fully enjoy the trip because I was bitten by a mosquito and the travel to Taiwan didn't really meet my expectations. I was just super excited and things didn't turn out the way that I wanted it to be, but still, I'm happy to slowly see the world with my family and Ninang.
OPPORTUNITY # 5: TRIP TO BALI, INDONESIA
Now, the trip to remember just unfolded! Bali Trip with my Mom, Tatay Al, Nikka (a.k.a Sisterboom), Roscoe, Chage and Caleb opened my eyes and enlightened me that life is short but overly gorgeous in every angle! The people who are close to me know that I recently had depression because of being verbally abused, but prayers and endless support got me through! It was super effective when you're dealing with depression and anxiety. Visiting Bali showed me how to appreciate the beauty within this cruel world. It showed me how to be positive even if life keeps knocking us down. Bali is beautiful and so is life.
OPPORTUNITY # 6: DISNEY PRINCESS PARTY
During my special day, I got the chance to give back a little to my supporters and dedicated followers. The Disney Princess Party became a way to show my appreciation for all the love that I've been receiving from the very start. It's my own way of saying thank you to all of the people who loved me even though I'm full of flaws and imperfections. The party is my childhood dream and I'm happy to share my dream to other mommies out there whom I think also have the same dream as I am when they are still little girls. Being a princess for a day is everything I could ever asked for.
OPPORTUNITY # 8: BLOGGERBABES CHRISTMAS PARTY
The BloggerBabes Christmas Party has been going on for two years. We, blogger babes started this to get to know of our supporters. A close encounter and perfect bonding so that we can also share some of our insights on a personal basis. Meeting everyone was eternal bliss. Everyone was just so jolly and excited. I am very grateful to all the PINK GIRLS out there and to my BloggerBabes Friends (All About Beauty 101, Dear Kitty Kitte Kath, Gen-zel-She Sings Beauty, I Love Keisha by Mommy Blogger K, Kikaysikat and R0ckstarm0mma)
You guys are a big part of my 2018 journey. Hoping that we'll still have our 3rd, 4th, 5th, nth Christmas party.
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You guys are a big part of my 2018 journey. Hoping that we'll still have our 3rd, 4th, 5th, nth Christmas party.
OPPORTUNITY # 9: MARATHON TO FITNESS GOALS
Lastly, we couldn't forget my life's passion, RUNNING! Running is no longer an obligation, it's a hobby, a stress-reliever, a goal, and a huge help to my sexy body. Joining marathons and fun-runs for the entire 2018 allowed me to earned medals that are perfect for my collection of marathon medals and freebies. Running, not only helped me achieve my fitness goals but also kept me healthy. What else made a good run aside from my fitness goals? That's my life in 2018. Everything was as smooth as a marathon.
This 2019, I'm hoping for a lot of things. I'm mainly praying for a baby girl. And with God, I know nothing's impossible. This new year gives us new chances, new beginnings and of course new opportunities. Just keep on going and never give up. We should not quit and pursue what we want and what inspires others. Let's continue doing what we love and never let our passion die just because we failed to do it the first time. There are people who are willing to stay by your side no matter the odds. They will support you til the very end and we must be grateful for that. The long run is over, open the next page of your journey with me. 2018 was great, let's see what 2019 will bring us!