Pre-trip jitters

BUT, I took the plunge because I NEEDED IT. I needed to be brave, to do something big. Being in a place in my life where everything seemed like a blur – like I was just reacting to what life threw at me – I grappled for direction, desired for a plan. I aimed for control. Taking this trip was my way of taking the reins back in my life. [Read: A story about why I travel]
The jeepney story

Morning in Tabuk, Kalinga


Arriving in Tinglayan, Kalinga

Settling in at my first homestay
Manong Francis prepared food for us upon our arrival at her sister’s house. Tara and I left our bags in our room, freshened up, and drank lots of water. Another thing that amazed me was that we could drink water directly out of the faucet! This is something I’d never do in Manila.
A day full of firsts at Tinglayan, Kalinga



This was my first time to do a real mountain trek (survivor level in my opinion), my first time to step on a snake (and not notice it), and my first time to see Sleeping Beauty.



Meeting the people of Tinglayan, Kalinga
Wrapping up a wonderful day
Before going to bed, Tara showed Ate Concepcion some yoga poses. Since my legs ached from all the walking we did that day (yes, I’m that unfit) and also to prepare myself for the planned hike next day to visit a community, I joined in.
It was such a memorable and full day and we were only on our first day of our 14-day trip. I was so excited and wanted to write everything in. But, I was so tired, too. LOL. So, we just slept to prepare our bodies for another enriching day in Tinglayan, Kalinga.

Sending you love and good vibes,
Monica
P.S. Thank YOU! And, in whatever space you are in now, I hope that you got something from reading this post. Talk to you soon!
Updated on October 1, 2020. Originally published on December 18, 2012.