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This trip to the Philippines has been one of the most bittersweet experiences of my life. When I was just 9 months old, my mother brought my siblings and me here so our grandparents could raise us. I spent the first few years of my life on Camiguin Island, surrounded by their love, their strength, and their sacrifices. Even when we moved back to the U.S., they came with us — continuing to raise me, to guide me, to shape who I am. As a child, I didn’t always appreciate the lessons they tried to teach me, but now, I carry their wisdom with me everywhere I go. It’s a part of my soul, stitched into everything I do.

Coming back now, seeing them in their old age, feeling time slipping through my fingers — it’s almost unbearable. Watching them wave goodbye, tears falling down their faces, I tried to be strong, to stay stoic for them, but inside I was breaking. It feels like this might be the last time I’ll see them, hold them, hear their voices — and that’s a pain I can’t put into words. Moments like this make me realize just how fleeting time is, and how important it is to never take the people we love for granted.

Now I’m alone in Cebu, and even though I’ve grown to find peace in solitude, this quiet feels heavier than usual. As I get older, I’m learning that there’s no better time to show love than now. To not let fear or pride get in the way of embracing all the love life has to offer. Love is meant to be felt deeply, expressed fully, and fought for — because if we don’t fight for love, if we let fear hold us back, all we’re left with are distant memories and the ache of what could’ve been.

I don’t want to waste time. I don’t want to leave words unsaid or love unspoken. Life is too precious, too fragile. I want to live with an open heart, to give and receive love freely, and to honor the people who have given me everything — especially my grandparents, whose love and lessons will stay with me for the rest of my life.

“Paningkamot, Ley” (”Strive, and make an effort, Ashley.”) — Said By My Grandparents

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#family #grandparents #love #timeflies #gmrc #goodmannersrightconduct #guinsiliban #camiguin #philippines #camiguinislebethere #bisaya Filipina woman smiling with her elderly Filipino grandparents in the Philippines, seated together on a tiled patio surrounded by tropical plants. Grandfather in wheelchair wearing yellow shirt, grandmother in vibrant floral dress.
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Today, I turn 32 (technically March 20th, but in my timezone, it’s already the 20th)— and this birthday feels different from the rest. After a year filled with new experiences, growth, and stepping into the unknown, I’ve found myself exactly where I’m meant to be: surrounded by family, love, and the kind of connection that roots you deeper into who you are.

We came together from all parts of the world — Australia, the UK, across the US — to celebrate my grandma’s 100th birthday. A hundred years of life, resilience, and legacy. Just to be part of that is something I’ll never take for granted. But what made this even more special was the chance to celebrate my own birthday in the same space, surrounded by the very people who made me who I am.

In Camiguin, I reconnected with my grandparents, had real conversations with aunts and uncles, and met relatives I never even knew I had. It wasn’t just about catching up — it was about being seen for who I am now. Not the child they once knew, but the woman I’ve grown into — shaped by my own journey, challenges, and victories.

Our family isn’t perfect — but we showed up. We laughed, we shared stories, we embraced the beauty and imperfections of our bond. That, in itself, is something powerful.

Turning 31 brought me into new spaces, new experiences, and stretched me in ways I couldn’t have imagined. But stepping into 32 feels like grounding. It feels like returning to what matters — love, connection, purpose. This trip through the Philippines, with all the adventures and reunions along the way, reminded me that home isn’t just a place — it’s the people, the memories, the legacy we carry.

So here’s to this next chapter — to more growth, more adventure, and more moments that make life rich and meaningful. I’m walking into 32 with a full heart and a deep sense of gratitude.

Here’s to honoring where we come from, celebrating who we’ve become, and believing in all that’s still ahead.

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#birthdaywishes #birthdaygirl #pisces #abecia #camiguin #centurianbirthday #family #filipino #pinay #islandlife #philippines #camiguinislebethere #camiguinisland Young woman smiling during an open-air ride in Camiguin, Philippines, celebrating her 32nd birthday with island adventures.

Camiguin island adventure, 32nd birthday travel, Philippines solo travel, tropical getaway, happy birthday trip.
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