June, You’ve Been Good to Me

“Fulfillment doesn’t come all at once—it comes in waves. In every task completed, every joyful pause, every story told.”

June wrapped itself around me like a warm hug. This month closed the first chapter of my journey as Lead Teacher—a role that began with uncertainty but has now become an integral part of who I am. Admin work was tackled, signed, sealed, and sent off, marking the official end of my first year. And honestly? I’m glad of how I showed up for others and for myself.

We celebrated the year’s close at the water park, a splash of joy with colleagues whose camaraderie kept me afloat through long planning nights and school-wide projects. It was a well-earned pause. I laughed. I let go. I remembered the power of showing up with joy.

Brunch, Connection, and Intentional Conversations
I leaned into connection this summer break of June—everyday blossomed with intentional brunches, morning health and fitness activities shared among women whose presence adds light to my everyday rhythm. Claudine, Katherine, Kristen, Karen, Bonnie and Beth aren’t just colleagues I pass in the hallway; they’re kindred spirits whose stories deserve more than a fleeting smile.

Claudine, whose South African roots and London days add an effortless flair to her vibrant spirit, is my daily dose of joy. She’s lively, jolly, and brims with inspiring stories of motherhood that always leave me reflecting—or laughing. She’s not just a coffee lover, she’s my real coffee buddy, the one I giggle with over steaming mugs as we shake off stress and savor little victories.

Katherine, originally from the Philippines, brought thoughtful curiosity and a deep sense of connection. Our conversations often danced between shared cultural experiences and unspoken truths about Filipino and non-Filipino realities. Each exchange felt like peeling back layers—not just of identity, but of understanding.

Kristen—also from South Africa—feels like my cheerful younger sister. There’s an easy sweetness in our dynamic: her calm empathy and playful warmth make each interaction soft around the edges, like sunshine slipping through on a busy day.

Karen holds a special place in my heart—someone I truly adore, especially every time she calls me “Ate,” the Tagalog word for older sister. That simple gesture carries so much warmth and respect, and it never fails to make me smile. She’s been a constant presence, always ready to listen to my stories, no matter how long or winding they may be. As I stepped into my first role as a lead teacher, Karen became one of my guiding lights. Her gentle advice and steady encouragement taught me the value of flexibility and reminded me to take things one step at a time. Her support has been both grounding and uplifting, and I’m endlessly grateful for her.

One of the people who’s become a constant in my everyday adventures is Bonnie, a colleague who quickly turned into a close companion. We discovered early on that we speak the same dialect, which instantly created a sense of familiarity and ease between us. That shared language became the thread that stitched together countless moments—from spontaneous trips to the local market to joining health and fitness activities that keep us both energized and laughing.

Then there’s Beth—always full of wisdom, with a calm, logical lens through which she views the world. Her ability to assess situations with clarity and grace has been nothing short of grounding for me. During my first role as a lead teacher, Beth became a core confidant, someone I could turn to not just for advice, but for genuine support. Her guidance was steady, her encouragement unwavering, and her presence deeply inspiring. I truly believe that much of my growth in that role was shaped by her quiet strength and thoughtful mentorship.

One of the highlights of my summer break was finally getting to meet and have a heartfelt conversation with Jen, a former colleague I’ve always felt a quiet connection with—despite our differences. It was one of those long-awaited meetups that I truly cherished, and I’m so grateful she made the time. We shared a peaceful 8-kilometer walk over two hours, followed by a comforting sip of morning coffee that made everything feel just right. Her stories—thoughtful, inspiring, and full of warmth—left a lasting impression. Thank you, Jen, for the beautiful company and meaningful moments.

These brunches and meet ups were more than meals. They were intimate pauses in the rush of our routines—moments where we truly saw each other. Between bites and shared stories, I felt my circle not just expand, but deepen. And that depth? It’s what connection really tastes like.

Family, Celebrations, and Quiet Pride
At home, celebration continued. The kids wrapped up their school year with grace and grit. Watching them walk up to receive their awards reminded me of the resilience within our little family. We honored their effort not just with claps and smiles, but with presence—with a shared meal, words of affirmation, and moments of genuine pride.

As the school doors closed behind them, summer stretched ahead like a warm invitation. The kids dove into their break with happy energy, meeting up with friends for impromptu basketball games and casual rounds of volleyball. The rhythm of play, laughter, and sunlit afternoons was the perfect contrast to months of hard work—little reminders that joy is also a form of growth.

Academic Wins and Steady Progress
On the academic front, I stayed committed to my Bachelor of Education journey. Modules were completed with thoughtful intention—each assignment bringing me closer to the kind of educator I aspire to be. Every ticked box wasn’t just progress; it was a reminder that my dreams are unfolding one step at a time.

Late nights with textbooks and quiet mornings with reflection have become part of my rhythm. I’ve learned to embrace the challenges, knowing each one builds the resilience I’ll need in the classroom. The joy of learning, even when it’s tough, keeps me anchored to the purpose behind it all.

Movement, Wellness, and Personal Goals Realized
Physical movement returned to my life in beautiful ways. More badminton matches, more time stretching and engaging with my body. These routines have lived in my dreams for years, and now they’ve found a home in my reality. It’s not about perfection—it’s about presence. About saying, “I deserve this too.”

I’ve also made jump rope a joyful part of my rhythm—quick sessions that energize my mornings and remind me of how strong and capable I’m becoming. Running consistently at the gym has given me a sense of quiet triumph; each stride a step toward endurance, clarity, and care for myself. These aren’t just workouts—they’re tiny declarations that I’m choosing wellness, every single day.

Slow Mornings and Savoring Stillness

June gifted me slow mornings. Coffees that weren’t rushed, the kind where I could actually taste the warmth and reflect without urgency. It reminded me that rest is also productive. That silence is also necessary. And that my body and mind flourish when I give them time.

Father’s Day, Traditions, and Togetherness

Father’s Day was simple and joyful—rallies on the badminton court and shared plates full of love. We honored the strength of fathers, especially of my husband who by his own means does his best to be the best father to the two. We made this Father’s Day even more special with movement and memories, weaving together the meaningful moment of everyday of our lives.

Final Reflections & Mental Health Advocacy

And now, standing at the cusp of another summer teaching stint, I feel deeply fulfilled. Not because everything was easy, but because everything was honest. This June reminded me to speak—to say what’s been done, what’s been felt, what’s been dreamed.

Too often we stay quiet, thinking our stories aren’t important enough to share. But I believe otherwise. Mental wellness begins with storytelling. With owning what we’ve lived and letting others hear it.

So, to you reading this: what did you live through this month? What did you accomplish or endure? What are you proud of? What broke you open and helped you rebuild? Say it out loud. Let it be known. You deserve to be heard.