My mother said, "You can always write." After thirty years as a scientist, I'm finally pursuing my passion. The lull of the pandemic and its inherent threats to life spurred me to start writing again, a hobby that had been waiting in the wings.

Since 2021, I have enjoyed a writing life. I write first thing in the morning, then go to my day job. Being disciplined takes time, and I find that if I set a goal, it is easier to be accountable. I started a series called the ABCs of Recovering Ilocano, a weekly offering running down the alphabet for subjects that connect me to my roots. I have lived longer in the United States than in the Philippines, and tightening the bond to my home country gets more important as I get older.

Join me in my journey.