Hi, everyone! My name is Maria Marissa Cantalejo, but some people call me Emem, especially my friends. I'm turning 18 this coming June 8, 2024. I'm currently studying at Naga Senior High School, and this is my last year because I'm a graduating student. In my parents' children, they have 4 children, 2 sons, and 2 daughters. I'm the middle child.
During my grade 11, I met new people who helped me a lot and made my school year enjoyable and memorable. They became my close friends, my comfort, and they led me in doing the right things. I'm so grateful for them.
Some of my hobbies include watching movies; it calms my mind, especially during stressful days at school. Before, I used to write personal journals during the pandemic days because I didn't have anyone to talk to about my life. I wrote about all the things that happened in my life before. But it stopped when face-to-face classes started. So now, I like to share my journals with people so that I can share my thoughts and lifestyle with others. And also, one of my hobbies is doing makeup. It helps boost my self-confidence, and I love doing it with my younger sister and also with my friends. Making them feel beautiful makes my heart flutter. Doing makeup has become my passion; I've watched a lot of makeup tutorials on social media to enhance my skills. I'm really invested in doing makeup because it makes me happy.
So, I have four best friends: Chuss, Memay, Justine, and Kate. We've been best friends since grade 11. They helped me a lot and showed me what true friendship means. They've been by my side through ups and downs. We've shared boy problems, family problems, and all kinds of problems. They make me laugh and sometimes cry. Sometimes we argue, but at the end of the day, we forgive each other. I love my girls so much; they've become like big sisters to me.
I also have my best best friend, her name is Divine. We've been friends for at least 5 years now. We were classmates before, but she moved to Negros. I miss my best friend so much. We've both changed, and we don't have straight conversations now like before. Before, we shared each other's secrets, but now I don't know anything about her anymore. I love my best friend so much, and I really miss her. I miss our chitchat moments.
When I was a kid, I really, really love to dance. I always join when there's a competition in our school or in our 'barangay.' I actually joined drum and lyre, and I was a little twirler in my school. My coaches loved me so much because of my 'kikayness' before; my mom and dad were always there to support me and hype me whenever I joined a contest. But then 'teenage era' kicks, I stopped joining contests, I stopped loving my hobby, but I kinda missed dancing with a lot of people cheering with me, or I just missed the attention that I was getting before, lol.
I also love the ocean; it calms my soul. Once, my tita, tito, my parents, and I had a little vacay to Camotes Island. The moment that we stepped on the white and fine sand, I was in love. I felt like I didn't want to go home even though we just got there, lol. We made core memories on that island; it was a time that my parents and I had a little bonding moment. It was nice staying there even though we just stayed there for 2 nights and 3 days; it just felt like home. So I talked to my dad, begging if it's okay that I'll celebrate my 18th birthday there, and gladly he was okay with it. I'm so happy to get back there and celebrate my birthday.
Now,we're gonna talk about my special someone. He was my best friend and boyfriend at the same time. We loved eating, swimming, dancing; we also loved making fun of each other, hahaha. He was a good cook; one of his specialties is fried chicken. He always bragged about how good his specialties are (it was my favorite). We bonded a lot, making each other laugh, doing silly and goofy things. He really made me feel what love means; he was a good man, he was all that I could ask for.
I can contribute to Hive in various ways, beginning with adhering to its rules and regulations and seeking guidance from experienced individuals. I can also engage in meaningful conversations to share ideas and knowledge and support fellow members by offering helpful guides. Initially, I wasn't aware of this platform until Ma'am @chimegipamus introduced it and explained the benefits of blogging. Although I initially hesitated due to concerns about time management, hearing about Rosa Retubado's positive experiences changed my perspective. She assured me that blogging is simple and doesn't consume much time; it's like keeping a diary without pressure.
As someone passionate about travel and love to share life style to others, I realized I wanted to join to share my own daily life stories. During our orientation, Ma'am @chimegipamus provided further insights into the Hive community, stressing the importance of being mindful of our content. Let's remember to celebrate each other's accomplishments and support one one another, as our collective interests and experiences strengthen our community. I value your attention to my introduction and eagerly anticipate our future interactions. Stay tuned for more captivating narratives and stimulating discussions that will keep you engaged!