October Chronicles

October Chronicles: A Month of Togetherness and Trials

October Chronicles: A month of togetherness and trials started with my mum’s birthday. Though we couldn’t gather on the day itself, we sent her a gift with love. The kids were tied up with their schedules, so the family marked the occasion a weekend later with dinner at a restaurant—much like Dad’s celebration last month. Even in the delay, the spirit of gratitude and togetherness shone through, reminding me how blessed we are to share these moments across time.

Meanwhile, Theonee’s volleyball tournament was in full swing. I found myself shuttling between schools, my heart swelling with pride as I watched my daughter and her teammates compete fiercely. Each game was not just about winning; it was a testament to hard work, dedication, and teamwork. I met some wonderfully supportive moms who share our passion for nurturing the next generation of athletes. It’s incredible how sports can bring people together, creating a community woven with shared hopes and encouragement.

The strength of the team is each individual member. The strength of each member is the team.” — Phil Jackson

As life unfolds, everyone at home is wrapped up in their own busy routines. Each of us has their own responsibilities and tasks, creating a rich tapestry of daily life. The chaos can be overwhelming at times, but it also holds a certain beauty.

October marked Teachers’ Day, a special occasion to honor those who shape young minds. While we did not hold a formal celebration, we began the morning by gathering our teachers and presenting them with tokens of appreciation from the school. It was a simple yet heartfelt gesture to acknowledge their dedication.

This year, I had the privilege of working behind the scenes, ensuring the day carried meaning and recognition for our colleagues. There is something deeply fulfilling about creating even a small moment of appreciation for those who inspire and invest so much in others.

The highlight of Teachers’ day was reconnecting with my co-lead teachers. As we shared stories and insights from our teaching journeys, I felt a surge of camaraderie. We visited an all-you-can-eat buffet nearby—a feast filled with laughter and delicious food. Our conversations flowed easily, ranging from school strategies to personal aspirations. It reminded me of the importance of community and support in our professional lives.

Alone, we can do so little; together, we can do so much. — Helen Keller

Adding to the joy of the month, I enjoyed a quick brunch with Ms. Claudine in honor of Teachers’ Day. We shared stories over  coffee latte and gelato at a cozy restaurant around the Russian Market area, making the moment even sweeter. Engaging with like-minded people who resonate with my beliefs brings a sense of comfort and connection. Conversations that dig deep and cultivate understanding are treasures I hold dear.

msclau_brunch

However, October isn’t without its challenges. A major road construction project began, turning my daily commute into a test of patience and perseverance. Traffic jams and detours became the norm, leading to frustrations that often left me drained before the workday even started. Yet, in hindsight, these moments have also become opportunities to cultivate calm, listen to podcasts or reflections, and remind myself that growth often comes in the waiting.

As the days passed, I found myself yearning for the comforting embrace of the Philippines. With every rainy day, cravings for familiar Filipino dishes grew stronger. I could almost taste the rich flavors of adobo and sinigang, the warmth of lumpia, and the sweetness of leche flan. These memories of home brought a mix of nostalgia and longing that lingered in my heart, and so I cooked some and ordered some Filipino dishes to satisfy those cravings. Each bite carried me back to cherished family gatherings and the warmth of home, reminding me that even far away, I can still nurture that connection through food.

One of the standout experiences this month was a sunset cruise along the Mekong River. As I boarded the boat with my love and a few friends, I felt a sense of anticipation. The river, reflecting the colors of the sunset, was breathtaking. It was mesmerizing to see how much Phnom Penh has grown since the first day I landed here. The skyline now boasts modern buildings alongside traditional ones, a beautiful blend of history and progress.

That evening, with the sun dipping below the horizon, we shared stories, laughter, and dreams. Each moment felt precious, a reminder of the importance of cherishing experiences with loved ones. My heart swelled with gratitude, eternally thankful for such moments that deepen our connections.

The ride ended around 7 pm, and the journey home was just as beautiful as the sunset boat ride itself. I must say, I love every moment my love and I share in a tuktuk. The conversations we have are normally anything under the sun—lighthearted musings, reflections on life, or simply laughter at small things—but they always turn into a beautiful experience. That evening, the cool breeze, the hum of the city, and the glow of streetlights made the ride feel like an extension of the cruise, a reminder that joy is often found in the simplest shared moments.

Life is either a daring adventure or nothing at all. — Helen Keller

As we approached the middle of the month, the pace at work intensified. Deadlines loomed, and expectations felt like a weight on my shoulders. There were moments when the pressure was almost unbearable, yet amid the chaos, I found solace in sharing insights with Nica, my co-lead teacher, who I consider a younger sister. Our discussions often turned into brainstorming sessions, where we helped one another navigate the challenges of the classroom and the leadership roles. I cherish these moments, as they remind me of the authenticity and integrity I appreciate in people. Thank you Nica.

Amidst work-related stress, I managed to squeeze in some gym visits, which became a vital outlet for my pent-up energy. With each workout, I pushed myself a little harder, striving to improve both my stamina and strength. However, home-cooked meals became less frequent due to exhaustion and time constraints. The rainy weather complicated things further—laundry gathered like forgotten thoughts, waiting for sunny days.

Juggling work commitments, sports obligations, and family responsibilities took its toll, and I realized I hadn’t been as attentive to the health of my children. The whirlwind of takeout meals and hectic schedules became a blur, and it hit home when Theonee came back from volleyball practice one evening feeling unwell. I initially thought a good night’s sleep and her favorite takeout would help her recover, but I was mistaken.

On Friday morning, I received a call from the school nurse, informing me that Theonee’s condition had worsened. Panic set in, and I immediately requested a leave of absence from work to care for her. We opted to wait a bit to see if over-the-counter medications would provide relief. Thankfully, they worked, and she was able to play in her volleyball game the next day.

But that relief was short-lived. After the game, we returned home, and Theonee quickly became fatigued. Her fever skyrocketed, and by 7 PM, we made the decision to take her to the hospital. The fear of the unknown loomed large, and my heart raced as we entered the ER. The next three days felt like an eternity as we navigated the world of medical care.

Upon returning home on Monday, I breathed a sigh of relief—but that relief was brief. Franco, too, began to show signs of illness. After a night of rest, I sent Theonee to school for her much-anticipated team pictorial, but soon after, we found ourselves returning to the hospital with Franco.

Can you believe it? I was off work from Friday, didn’t return until the following Friday, and dealt with more hospital stays in one month than I’d ever experienced. This particular marathon of life was unlike any other, but it allowed me to witness the resilience of my children. I’m relieved that they recovered, thanks to the attentive care from the hospital staff and the unwavering support of my love during those uncertain days.

Arriving home after Franco’s hospitalization felt like a gift of serenity. The familiar sights and sounds of home carried a reassuring reminder of normalcy. I savored the moment and reveled in the comfort of simply being home.

Both Franco and Theonee had school commitments soon after our return. Franco was preparing for his first public drumming performance on October 31, an event that filled him with both excitement and nerves. At the same time, they had to visit the immigration office for visa renewal, adding another layer of busyness to our lives. Even as I reported back to work, I continued to supervise them virtually, making sure they stayed consistent with their medications and vital signs while balancing their daily routines.

We were glad that Franco’s first drum band event turned out to be a success, a proud milestone that boosted his confidence. Meanwhile, Theonee was able to slowly ease back into her volleyball commitments while also preparing for basketball tryouts. Both of them were juggling health monitoring alongside their extracurricular activities, and the tryouts added yet another dimension to their already full schedules. Life felt undeniably busy for the teens, but we are so grateful to see them thriving, embracing opportunities, and growing through each experience.

October was also the month I found myself reflecting deeply on life and loss. After all the whirlwinds of events, I was given a precious moment to embrace my late sister’s memorial day. Even now, I struggle with the term “death anniversary.” I prefer to call it a memorial day—after all, she is a hero of our family in countless ways.

In the midst of all the hustle and bustle, I carved out a moment of solitude and silence to honor her memory. I took a deep breath, allowing myself to pause from my busy life, and simply said a heartfelt prayer for everything she represented. Such moments of reflection remind me how profoundly someone can impact our lives, even after they’re gone.

To everyone who remembered my sister Michelle during this time, thank you. Your thoughts and kindness serve as a gentle reminder that her legacy lives on in our hearts.

As October drew to a close, it felt like an intricate dance of ups and downs, yet through it all, I remained grateful. Each challenge brought lessons, and every moment, whether joyful or testing, deepened our familial bonds. By the last day of October, we were all home and safe—an outcome I do not take for granted.

In retrospect, this month has been a tapestry woven with love, resilience, and experience. A month of togetherness and trials, it reminded me that every day is a gift meant to be cherished. I want to thank all the people who have been there—both online and onsite—for their encouragement, prayers, and support. A special shout out goes to my love, who tirelessly managed hospital visits and ran the household in my absence.

As we move forward, I invite you to stay tuned for more stories and reflections. And I warmly encourage you to share your own journeys with us at Journey4Us—simply send us an email and let your story be part of this growing tapestry of connection and hope.

Until here for now. Signing off…

Teriz