TEASER: Just days after the New Year, I treated myself with a joyful shopping trip at Trinoma—Levi’s finds, Landmark treasures, and an Oakley cap for my boyfriend. More than shopping, it’s a story of self-love, resilience, and rising up.
Greetings, Hive Family, most especially to Hive PH Community! How’s your Sunday so far? I hope all is well on your end as you go through my balanced and reflective blog.
Shopping has always been more than just buying things for me. It’s a ritual of self-love, a way of rewarding myself for the hard work I’ve poured into the past year. Every time the New Year arrives, I make it a point to shop for myself, a small but meaningful tradition that reminds me that I deserve to enjoy the fruits of my labor. Just days after the New Year this 2025, I had another fulfilling shopping experience at Trinoma, and I’d love to share it with you.
My Shopping Experience
Oakley Outlet Visit---My boyfriend and I started our day at the Oakley outlet. He only had one item in mind, a cap. Since his shopping list was short compared to mine, we decided to prioritize his purchase first. After browsing through the available designs, he finally picked one that suited him perfectly.
Levi’s Outlet Stop---Next, it was my turn. We headed to the Levi’s outlet to buy a t-shirt. Levi’s has always been a reliable brand for me, and I felt excited to add another piece to my wardrobe.
Landmark Department Store---Finally, we went to Landmark, where I bought flat shoes and sandals. I’ve always loved Landmark for its variety and affordability, and this trip was no exception.
Overall, it was a happy and fulfilling shopping experience. Having my boyfriend with me made it even more special, as we both enjoyed ticking off our shopping lists together.
Shopping after the New Year has been my way of giving back to myself. It’s a tradition I’ve consistently followed, but this year feels different. As much as I want to continue this ritual in January 2026, I’m facing financial challenges. Being the sole breadwinner, I’m still paying off loans because I had shouldered all expenses from the hospitalization up to the burial of my father who passed away last week of July this year.
Despite these struggles, I remind myself that what truly matters is not the shopping itself, but the fact that I’m slowly rising up and fighting through life’s challenges. If I cannot shop for myself after the New Year, that’s okay. My resilience and determination are already gifts worth celebrating.
This shopping trip may seem ordinary, but for me, it symbolizes balance, between treating myself and facing life’s realities head-on. Whether or not I continue my tradition next year, I know I’m moving forward, stronger and braver than before.
Thank you for reading my story, Hive PH family. May we all continue to find joy in the little things, even as we fight our bigger battles.
NOTE: All the photos shared here are mine, originally captured using my mobile phone; lead photo enhanced using the user-friendly CollageArt.