Until We Meet Again

The Quiet Grief of a Cat Named Atari

It has been two months since I last wrote, two months since I gave myself the space to breathe and reflect. Last June, I shared the news of our senior cat, Atari, passing away. It was a lot to process, and I found myself quietly grieving and healing, a process that takes time. To honor his memory, I decided to keep his Instagram account active, the one I created the day we adopted him in 2012. Posting his unposted photos and videos has become a source of comfort, a way to make the healing process a little easier.

I still find myself wondering if he's okay, and I'm still trying to understand why I didn't feel his presence after he passed. I've always been a believer in supernatural phenomena, and I truly believe something special happened on the day he left us. The air smelled of fresh flowers, an experience that's hard to explain but that I'm certain was his way of saying goodbye and thanking us. It had been years since I cried over the loss of a pet, but letting go of Atari was different. We had him for 13 years, and he was more than just a pet to my twin and me; he was family. Every family member, old and new, knew him. He was with us through all of life's moments, both good and bad. It's been two months now, and I find comfort in hoping he's in a better place, a place where he can be with my mom. I still wish for the day I'll see them both together in my dreams.

A Sudden Goodbye to Our Dog, Yumi

Just as we were beginning to heal, another heartbreak struck in July. Our senior dog, Yumi, passed away on the 9th. She had just celebrated her 14th birthday in April, a month that she shared with my twin, myself, and one of our other cats, Katsu. I had even baked her a birthday cake, not knowing it would be her last.

Yumi's passing was sudden and unexpected. She seemed so healthy for a 14-year-old dog, especially compared to Atari, who had frequent vet visits in his senior years. She was a small dog but so strong, a little bully to our bigger dog. Looking back, my siblings and I couldn't help but blame ourselves for not paying closer attention to the signs of her body weakening. We overlooked that she was a year older than Atari, believing her strength meant she was perfectly fine. At the end of June, I started to notice her heavy breathing. She was rushed to the vet on July 1st and confined for almost two days. Her blood work came back with terrible news. The doctor said she was anemic and had infections, and other tests pointed to a possible heart ailment and failing kidneys. My siblings and I remained hopeful for a miracle, but things took a turn for the worse. In the early hours of July 9th, Yumi passed away. She didn't even get to finish her medication.

It was a devastating blow, especially with Atari's passing only a month before. We had no choice but to accept that she couldn't fight anymore. We had her cremated, just like Atari, and it was incredibly difficult to say goodbye to a family member. I miss her deeply, just as I miss Atari. I have placed their urns together on our dirty kitchen cupboard, creating a resting place where we can still see them.

               Watch my vlog here ⬇️

           

The Unconditional Love of Family

In the end, our pets are truly family. Even in their passing, we must honor their lives with a decent memorial. Losing both of our senior pets has created a significant hole in our hearts, but knowing they are no longer in pain brings us a measure of peace. We may have considered them our pets, but to them, we were their entire world. They don't live as long as we do, and because of that, it's our responsibility to give them the best life possible.

Of Fur and Farewells

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A Return to Words

Hello again.

I promised myself I would keep this blog going—keep writing, keep documenting the little things that make up this big, messy life. But sometimes, life gets in the way. The past few weeks have been heavy, but not without light. In fact, last month brought us joy in the form of a new furmily member: a little black kitten we named Kohl.

Kohl came into our lives unexpectedly, as many good things do. He was a helpless kitten hiding under a neighbor’s car, scared and alone, with a pack of stray dogs roaming nearby. My sister and I didn’t think twice. We scooped him up and brought him to safety. We weren’t planning to adopt another cat—we already had five—but leaving him behind wasn’t an option.

A month has passed since that day, and Kohl has flourished in our care. He’s playful, curious, and adored by his new siblings—Skye, Finn, their mom Luna whom we adopted last year and Katsumi whom we also adopted in 2022. The family of 3 just celebrated their first adoptsary on May 9. It’s been a beautiful thing, watching our home expand with love.

But life, as always, has its way of balancing joy with sorrow.

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The Slow Goodbye

In the last two weeks of May, we noticed our beloved senior cat, Atari, was losing weight at an alarming rate. He was 13, and while he had slowed down over the years, this felt different. We brought him to the vet, and he was confined overnight. The next day, he was sent home—eating, drinking, seemingly stable.

But I could tell something wasn’t right. His right arm, where the IV was inserted, began to swell. Another vet visit. Another round of antibiotics. Still, he ate, still he drank. But the strength in his legs began to fade. Two days ago, he couldn’t stand on his own. He dragged himself to the litter box. He stopped eating. He stopped drinking.

Then came yesterday.

My sister called his name that morning, but he didn’t respond.

Atari was gone.

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The Cat Who Chose Us

Atari was more than a pet. He was a constant in our ever-changing lives, a witness to our grief, our growth, our love. He didn’t come from a shelter or a pet store. He chose us.

It was 2012. My twin sister and I were preparing for work when we heard a kitten crying outside. We opened the door, and there he was—a chubby ginger boy who rolled over on the floor like he already knew he belonged to us. He walked in and never left.

Our elder sister, hesitant about having a cat, was unsure at first. But even she couldn’t deny how special he was. We later found out he had belonged to our next-door neighbor. She found him by the highway and tied him outside her house with a ribbon so her dog wouldn’t hurt him. But Atari had other plans—he escaped and came straight to us.

When the neighbor saw him with us, she was relieved. She knew he had found the right home.

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Between Homes and Hearts

When we moved to a new apartment that didn’t allow pets, we left Atari in the care of our parents. It was a painful decision, but necessary. Thankfully, they lived nearby, and we visited often. Our mom, in particular, took care of him like her own child.

Then, in 2013, tragedy struck.

Our mother passed away suddenly. A family friend told us that just hours before, she and Atari were having a "fight"—he wouldn’t stop bugging her during dinner. Maybe he sensed something. Maybe animals really can smell death.

We moved back into our family home for a while. Life became quieter. And then, eventually, louder again. New jobs. A new house. New routines. But through it all, Atari remained—the one familiar thread tying our story together.

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 The Fighter

Years went by. Atari, ever the curious soul, remained an outdoor cat. But the world outside isn’t always kind. One day, he came home covered in dirt and blood with a severe tail injury. We rushed him to the vet, where his tail had to be amputated. It was horrifying—but he pulled through.

We had him neutered. Still, he wandered. Still, he fought. Eventually, after an incident with a neighbor, we made the decision to bring him indoors permanently. He adapted, gracefully aging into his role as the wise elder among a growing pride of cats.

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Love in Numbers

As Atari aged, we began to notice the subtle signs of time: slower movements, occasional digestive issues. We changed his diet, gave him more wet food, and surrounded him with love. But we sensed he needed a companion.

That’s when Katsumi, a spirited calico, came into our lives in 2022. And just like that, Atari found his spark again. He played, he cuddled, he thrived.

Then came Luna, Finn, and Skye—a stray cat family we welcomed in last year.

And finally, Kohl, our unexpected May rescue.

Even as our attention was split between them all, Atari remained our center. The wise one. The soul of the house.

He passed away in the early morning hours, quietly and peacefully.

Thirteen years of life. Our mother passed in 2013. I don’t believe in coincidences.

I believe they were soulmates.

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The Weight of Goodbye

We had Atari cremated, just like our mom. His ashes now sit beside our altar—a spirit who shaped our lives in ways no words can fully express.

The house feels different now. Quieter. A little emptier. Healing is a slow process, and I know it will take time. I still expect to see him lying in his favorite spots or hear his soft meows at night.

If you've never loved a pet, you may not understand. But losing one is like losing family.

Because they are family.

Atari wasn’t just a cat.

He was our history. Our joy. Our heartbreak. Our love.

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Until We Meet Again

I hope my mom was there, waiting for him at the edge of the rainbow bridge.

No more pain. No more sickness.

Just peace.

Goodbye, Atari.

Thank you for choosing us.

Watch my vlog here ⬇️

A Cozy Holiday to End a Challenging Year

As the final days of 2024 slipped away, I found myself embracing the holidays with quiet gratitude. It had been a challenging year, but the festive season brought a sense of warmth and renewal that I desperately needed.

Christmas was a visual delight in our home, with a purple, gold, and brown theme that added a unique elegance to our celebrations. The tree shimmered with these colors, and even the table decor matched perfectly, creating a cozy yet regal atmosphere.

Our buffet bar was the heart of our gatherings, lovingly decorated and filled with dishes I had prepared. This year, I tried out new vegan holiday recipes, and they were a delicious success.

My fur babies joined in the festivities, dressed up in adorable holiday outfits. They brought endless smiles and laughter, prancing around and stealing the spotlight. Their energy was contagious, and they truly felt like part of the family celebration.

The holidays were quiet and private, just how I like them. As an introvert, I cherished the moments spent at home with my family. There were no big parties, just the comfort of being surrounded by loved ones and enjoying the little things: laughter, music, and the twinkling lights on our tree.

However, not everything was perfect. A few days after Christmas, the cold weather got to me, and I fell ill. It was a reminder to slow down and take care of myself, something I often forget in the rush of life. Thankfully, I recovered just in time for New Year’s Eve.

On New Year’s Eve, we kept the traditions simple yet festive. We sang our hearts out during karaoke, lit firework sticks, and watched fireworks burst across the night sky from the comfort of home. We opened presents together, each gift a symbol of love and thoughtfulness.

As the clock struck midnight, I reflected on 2024. It had been a tough year, filled with challenges and lessons. But as I stood there with my family, my fur babies by my side, and the promise of a new year ahead, I couldn’t help but feel grateful.

2024 may have tested me, but it also reminded me of what truly matters—love, resilience, and the joy of being with those who make life meaningful. Here’s to 2025, a year I’m stepping into with hope, gratitude, and an open heart.

Mountain Escape: My Unexpected Trip to Sagada

My twin sister and I spontaneously planned our Sagada trip in just two days. Everything happened so quickly that before we knew it, we were hopping on a bus at Dangwa Terminal (located behind Centermall, Baguio) during the last week of November. It was on twinnie’s rest day, the morning of November 26th, that we set off on our 6-hour journey to Sagada aboard a Lizardo bus.

We weren’t even sure we’d make it to the 8:30 AM trip, as finding a Grab ride from our home in Baguio to Dangwa Terminal was a challenge, good thing sissy drove us off to the terminal as a last-minute decision. November is peak traffic season here in Baguio, with tourists flocking to enjoy the cold weather, which lasts through February.

Sagada, a serene town nestled in the Cordillera Mountains, is also known as Sagada, Mt. Province. I didn’t expect to be traveling so close to Christmas, but twinnie was determined—even if it was just for a few days. I hadn’t traveled in a long time, and honestly, the thought of a 6-hour trip felt exhausting. But in the end, it was worth it. This trip turned out to be quite the adventure, especially since it had been 16 years since twinnie and I last visited Sagada.

Back in 2008, I swore I’d never return. The narrow, winding roads triggered my fear of heights, and the rough, dusty ride on an unpaved road was something I never wanted to experience again. But a lot has changed since then. The road to Sagada is now fully cemented, making the journey far less nerve-wracking. Maybe it’s not just the road that has changed—maybe I have too. After living in Baguio for over a decade, I’ve grown accustomed to mountainous terrains, and they no longer scare me the way they used to.

Reflecting on this trip, I’m glad I gave Sagada another chance. It reminded me that time changes not only places but also perspectives.

Before our trip to Sagada, I did some research to make sure everything would go smoothly. I looked into the best months to visit and what the weather would be like. I also searched for homestays located in the town proper to make it easier for us to get around. According to my findings, the best time to visit Sagada is from November to February. During this period, the town is less crowded with tourists, offering a more relaxed experience. It also happened to be the perfect time for us, as there were no typhoons forecasted for the last week of November.  

My twin and I reached out to a few homestays to inquire about their rates and availability. After comparing options, we found a place we liked and booked it through their Facebook page. The process was seamless—we paid a deposit online, which secured our stay. While we weren’t entirely sure if booking in advance was necessary, we didn’t want to risk arriving without accommodations, especially since we wanted our trip to be stress-free.  

For anyone planning a visit to Sagada, I’ll share our travel itinerary for our 3-day, 2-night stay. While the Internet was incredibly helpful in planning, not all the information was up-to-date or accurate. Traveling always comes with a bit of learning on the go, and I’m happy to share our experience to make your trip easier.  

Upon arriving at Dangwa Terminal, we quickly spotted the booth labeled "Besao-Sagada." We purchased our tickets for ₱330 each. The bus company operating the route from Baguio to Sagada is called GL Trans Corp.

Baguio to Sagada 3D/2N Trip | November 26-28,2024 

D.I Y. Itinerary

Day 1:

8:30 AM: Travel to Sagada via Lizardo bus. There was a 30-minute stopover two hours later.

2:30 PM: Arrived in Sagada. Register at Tourism office. We paid P50 each for the environmental fee and P100 each for the registration fee. 

3:00 PM: Checked-in at Lodge Labanet. Freshen up before heading out for dinner.

4:30 PM: Dinner at Gaia Cafe. We rode a tuktuk and paid P25 per head to get to Gaia from our homestay. 

6:00 PM: Back at the homestay.

Day 2:

10:00 AM: Breakfast at Masferre Country Inn & Restaurant

11:00 AM: Visited Church of St. Mary the Virgin.

11:30 AM: Visited the Sagada Homemade Whole Wheat Bakery. 

We rode a tuktuk again and paid the same fare which was P25 per head. The store was closed when we arrive, but the owner saw us outside and let us in. We bought whatever wheat bread was available at that time since there was no fresh bread available yet.

12:00 NN: Lunch at Sagada Brew.

This restaurant is just walking distance from the bakery.

1:00 PM: Visited Sagada Lemon Pie House.

We just walked here from Sagada Brew since it was just close by. We bought lemon pies as pasalubong. 

1:30 PM: Back at the homestay. Free time. 

We bought pasalubong at the souvenir shop just in front of our homestay during our free time. 

4:30 PM: Dinner at Yoghurt House. 

This is also just walking distance from our homestay.

5:30 PM: Back at the homestay.

Day 3:

3:00 AM: Wake up and get ready for our trip back to Baguio. 

4:30 AM: Checked-out at homestay.

5:00 AM: Travel back to Baguio.

We walked over to the Church of St. Mary the Virgin, thinking it was the GL Trans bus terminal, but the gate was still closed. The gate was scheduled to open at 6 AM, so we were a bit confused. Thankfully, we spotted the bus waiting for passengers at the nearby waiting shed. We managed to catch the 5 AM trip back to Baguio.

To sum it up, our Sagada trip was both memorable and exhausting. A lot has changed since we last visited—the town now has more commercial establishments and homestays. While the food was on the pricier side, it’s understandable given that Sagada is a popular tourist destination.

One thing that stood out, though, was the limited dining options for vegetarians like us. It was a bit of a challenge to find suitable meals. I hope that in the future, more restaurants will include vegetarian options on their menus to cater to a wider range of dietary preferences.

Sixteen years later, Sagada remains the serene and peaceful haven I fell in love with, and it’s definitely a place I’ll return to again.

Life Lately

It's been three months since my last update, which means I missed my goal of posting monthly. Now that we're in the BER months, a lot has changed. Our adopted feline family has fully adjusted to indoor life, and they seem to be thriving. Luna, the mama cat, was spayed last month, and the kittens are growing up fast. Skye, our Siamese, lost his baby teeth, which was a relief because he had "retained deciduous teeth"—a condition that could have caused problems if the baby teeth didn't fall out. Finn, the other kitten, has gained a lot of weight and is loving all the new toys, especially the cat tree I got them recently.

As for our two older cats, Atari and Katsu, they’re getting along well with the kittens but not so much with Luna, who’s developed a bit of territorial aggression. I’m hoping Luna will eventually learn to co-exist with everyone.

On a different note, I’ve started my Christmas shopping early, focusing on ornaments and gifts to avoid the last-minute rush. We’re planning to set up the Christmas tree next month, and I’m excited about our holiday color theme this year: purple, gold, and coffee brown. It’s keeping me busy, but in a good way!

That’s it for now. More updates to come soon!

A Busy May: Welcoming Furry Friends and Celebrating Milestones

May has been an incredibly busy month filled with new furry additions, unexpected vet visits, and joyful celebrations. Our home has become a haven for a stray cat family, and we’ve experienced the highs and lows of pet parenting. Here's a look at the eventful month we've had.

Welcoming a Stray Cat Family

One of the most heartwarming highlights of May was the adoption of a stray cat family. My older sister and niece came across a mother cat and her two kittens in desperate need of a home. Sadly, animal rescue shelters were overwhelmed and unable to take them in. Determined to find them a safe place, my sister and niece fostered the little family for a month. Their journey didn’t end there; they traveled 12 hours to bring them to our home, which will now be their forever home.

Meet our new "pawmily" members 

Adopting stray cats is a cause close to my heart. It's vital to provide these animals with loving homes rather than purchasing pets from breeders. Every stray cat deserves a chance at a better life, and adopting them helps reduce the overwhelming number of homeless animals.

Katsu’s Unplanned Vet Visit

Our 2-year-old cat, Katsu, gave us quite a scare this month. She developed a high fever and had to make an unplanned visit to the vet. After a thorough check-up, Katsu was put on medication for a week. Thankfully, she’s now on the mend, but it was a stressful time for all of us. Regular vet check-ups and prompt medical attention are crucial for our pets' health, even when unexpected issues arise.

Celebrating Cooper’s 2nd Birthday

Amidst all the hustle and bustle, we celebrated a special milestone—our dog Cooper turned 2 years old! We wanted to make his day extra special, so we gave him a cake, a cake that I baked using dog-friendly ingredients. Cooper also had his fur groomed just days before his birthday. Unfortunately, this led to razor burns, but we quickly treated them with cold compresses and wound spray. Despite the minor setback, Cooper enjoyed his birthday celebrations with lots of love and attention.

Cooper turned 2 years old

The Importance of Adopting Stray Animals

This month has reinforced the importance of adopting stray animals. There are countless cats and dogs in need of loving homes, and by adopting them, we not only save their lives but also make room in shelters for others in need. Stray animals often have a lot of love to give and can become loyal, grateful companions.

Our new cat family has already brought so much joy into our lives. Watching them settle into their new environment and seeing them thrive is a rewarding experience. It’s a reminder of the difference we can make one adoption at a time.

Conclusion

May has been a whirlwind of activities and emotions, from welcoming new feline family members to celebrating Cooper’s birthday and ensuring Katsu’s health. Through it all, we've been reminded of the joys and responsibilities of pet ownership and the importance of adopting stray animals. 

Back at It: A Long Overdue Update

It's been three months since I last sat down to write, and I've missed this more than I can express. Life has a way of throwing unexpected curveballs, and for me, it came in the form of taking care of a senior cat who needed extensive vet care and a temporary return to the graveyard shift for work.

My senior cat, a beloved member of our family, needed extra care and attention due to health issues. This required frequent vet visits, medications, and round-the-clock monitoring. It was a challenging time, but I wouldn't have traded those moments with my furry friend for anything in the world.

In addition to caring for my cat, I also found myself back on the graveyard shift for a short-term job. The change in schedule was abrupt, and adjusting to the nocturnal lifestyle once again was tough. But I knew it was a temporary situation, and I had to give it my all.

Despite these challenges, I'm grateful for the experiences and lessons learned during this time. It's taught me the importance of resilience, patience, and the value of cherishing every moment, whether it's with a loved one or in the pursuit of personal and professional growth.

As I return to writing, I carry with me a renewed sense of purpose and a deeper appreciation for the simple joys in life. I'm excited to share more stories, insights, and adventures with you all in the days to come. Thank you for your patience and understanding during my absence. Here's to new beginnings and the journey ahead.

Year-End Blog

As 2023 gracefully approaches its finale, I find myself marveling at the swift passage of time. In the blink of an eye, Christmas festivities unfolded, and now we stand on the threshold of bidding adieu to this remarkable year. Embracing my introverted nature, I relished the quiet joy of a private Christmas celebration among a select few.

The meticulous efforts invested in cooking and decorating, though exhausting, yielded a sense of fulfillment that made every moment worthwhile. Reflecting on the journey of the past year, I am engulfed in gratitude for the myriad blessings that have graced my life. It has been a year of personal triumphs and growth, leaving me with a profound sense of accomplishment.

Looking ahead, my aspirations for the coming year include a renewed focus on health and other areas deserving attention. Despite the challenges, the tapestry of 2023 has been woven with threads of greatness, and I wouldn't trade this experience for anything else. As we collectively bid farewell to this chapter, I extend warm holiday wishes to all. Let's savor the remaining days, making each one count in the tapestry of our lives. Cheers to the memories of 2023 and the anticipation of a bright and promising future in the year to come!

A Month Before Christmas

Counting down the days to Christmas, I'm bursting with excitement! Despite the lack of fall in the Philippines, I still decked out early in September, minus the Halloween decor—no four seasons, no spooky justification, haha! The holiday spirit kicks off with the BER months.

Juggling a bustling Etsy shop and diving into new passions has kept me on my toes. Starting a business solo is no walk in the park, but the thrill is real. Here's hoping my efforts turn into something amazing.

Gift shopping for the fambam is underway, and I'm all about that early-bird strategy, even if it's all online. No last-minute chaos, just smooth sailing towards a stress-free celebration. The holidays are sacred family moments, and I'm determined to make each one special—after all, it's a once-a-year deal.

Reflecting on 2023, it's been a year of blessings, and gratitude fills my heart. Every year is a celebration because each one is unique. What about you? What's lighting up your holiday season?

August is Here

The onset of the rainy season brought challenges as Super Typhoon Egay wreaked havoc in northern Luzon. Our village experienced power and water shortages for days, compounded by a week-long internet outage. The aftermath resembled a movie scene with closed roads, fallen trees, and landslides. Fortunately, my siblings and I had stocked up on essentials, though we initially underestimated the typhoon's impact. Living in a non-flood-prone area spared us, but my heart goes out to those severely affected, especially those who lost loved ones during Typhoon Egay. Grateful for our safety amidst the challenges.

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Residing in Baguio, the coldest part of the country, presents both blessings and challenges in my perspective. The constant cold is a joy, with hotels forgoing AC as you invite the refreshing breeze through open windows. After 11 years, I'm still captivated by the descending fog, transforming the surroundings into an entirely different world. The serene chill effortlessly eases worries, and despite occasional summer heat, it's a haven compared to Metro Manila. Plus, the abundance of affordable veggies led me to embrace a vegan lifestyle – veggies are life for me.

Yet, the curse reveals itself in the rainy season. Relentless downpours lasting weeks or months can lead to a clothing dilemma, and battling mold becomes a constant struggle, particularly with beloved wooden items. Rainy day blues affect some, but for me, it's an excuse to indulge and, thanks to my hyperthyroidism, weight fluctuations are inevitable – a genetic quirk. Living in a cold place like Forks from Twilight evokes a bittersweet emotion, akin to a happy kind of sadness. Finding bliss is essential, acknowledging that happiness is a state of mind, not solely dependent on location.

Chapter 6 of 12

I'm back, hey! I've been M.I.A. (missing in action) once more for four months since I've been so busy with life in general, home renovations, and DIY projects. I am really thankful for the year so far since it has been so full of benefits. In April, I had my birthday. We had birthday pawties and other celebrations for our newly adopted dog and cat when they turned one this year. As responsible pet owners, we also brought them to the veterinarian to have them fixed so they may enjoy a long and healthy life. It's been a challenging but rewarding few months, and I wouldn't have it any other way.

2023 is halfway passed. Although it seems impossible, time truly does pass in the blink of an eye. I prefer to keep myself active all the time, so the fact that I still have a ton of stuff to do makes me happy. I'm also considering starting new businesses, which I hope will succeed. My doctor informed me that I had subclinical hyperthyroidism, which means I will likely have to deal with it for an undetermined amount of time. However, I am grateful that I am still alive, and at this point, that is all that matters. 

The year has been fantastic, and I have high hopes that it will continue to be so. I anticipate learning more.