what happened?

i've been in san pablo for the past week, that's what happened. no internet connection, meaning, no blogs, no email, and no chats. the mere thought of it makes me shiver. how could i have survived the week without a link to the outside world? how could i have braved the plateau of san pablo without my usual evening, and yes, morning, habits?

argh, it was the worst of times.

and yet, it was also the best of times.

i have started jogging. seriously this time. not a momentary flavor that i put up myself into. of course, i couldn't run for sh*t at first, that was expected. what was unexpected however was my desire to continue running. the early morning breeze battling with my running body as i feel the heat of my blood rising to my face is a complete head rush. love that feeling.

also, a week's stay at home normalized my eating habits. no more skipping meals for me. eating three times a day without the usual dormer's question of where will i eat next is indeed a welcome change in my system. it almost feels like cleansing my body of unwanted stress. that'd be good anytime.

what's more, staying at home for a week somewhat crystallized whatever it is i learned and gained from the silent retreat i have had two weeks ago. nothing can be more serene than spending some alone time in the place where i grew up. growing up there wasn't easy, but it has its wonderful moments, those which i will cherish for the rest of my life.

finally, i have had quality time bonding with my mom. it's been ages since i last had a conversation with her beyond the usual kumustahan. i missed speaking with my mom. i missed the comfort it always brings when we converse and discuss issues concerning anything under the sun. i wish we could do it more often. i wish I could be there more often.

indeed, it was the worst of times, it was the best of times. no one could have put it more precisely than that.

(by the way, i single-handedly put up our Christmas tree at home and it was cool. i also received my final marks in crim law rev and it was even cooler. thanks sir!)