"***Starting something new and seeing positive results can bring immense happiness and a sense of achievement."- Anonymous***

The beginning of my blogging journey in August 2023 marked a significant moment that led to personal and professional growth. Initially, I hesitated because I felt unsure about diving into writing, given the challenges of managing my studies, tutoring, and leadership roles. The idea of starting a blog seemed daunting, with self-doubt clouding my thoughts.

However, the unwavering support and encouragement from ate Smi @callmesmile became a source of motivation amidst my uncertainties. Both ate Smi and ate @hanyabee consistently encouraged me to join, highlighting the benefits of improving my writing skills and the financial support available through the platform. Their support and persuasive sales talk pushed me to take the leap, a decision for which I am truly grateful.

This journey has been filled with memorable experiences, including forming new friendships, enhancing my writing abilities, and gaining insights that have proven valuable in my academic pursuits, particularly in my Creative Writing studies. The unexpected connection between the skills developed through blogging and their practical application in my education has been eye-opening, emphasizing the importance of diverse learning experiences. The supportive environment provided by Hive not only empowered me to explore new opportunities but also made my parents proud, showcasing the impact of encouragement and the rewards of embracing challenges with determination and optimism.

Which is wich???

In January 2024, I had to decide whether to withdraw some money or not. Initially, my plan was to save up a substantial amount because I aimed to get a driver's license. This license would enable me to ride my motorcycle to my school in Medellin, which is quite a distance from my hometown. However, my plans took a turn when I learned from my mom that my dad, who was discussing the purchase of a new kitchen door, accidentally broke the existing one, and they lacked the funds for repairs.

A week later, I inquired about the cost of the new door they intended to buy, and they estimated it to be around 4,000 pesos. In light of this, I decided to provide them with 5,200 pesos to assist with the expenses.

Upon sharing this additional money with them, they expressed surprise and questioned the source of the funds. I then explained to them about HIVE, the platform that unexpectedly boosted my finances. They were pleased to hear about it as it allowed them to make adjustments to their budget. I offered them the money without specifying how it should be used, allowing them to determine the best use for our family.
 

How did I manage to get the money?

Well, being a first-timer, I was clueless about the process, but with @iamgagz09 Ate Gaga's help, she guided me in sending money to my parents. It all happened one evening when she visited our home to buy load from my elder sister. That's when I took the opportunity to seek her advice on how to withdraw money, knowing that she had previous experience in doing so. Ate Gaga then patiently instructed me on the steps to transfer the funds, making it a quick and seamless process. The following day, she promptly sent the money to my GCash account. I was elated at that moment because the amount greatly assisted my parents. Ate Gaga graciously accepted my gratitude, emphasizing that she didn't expect anything in return for her assistance. Her selfless act made me regard her as a true sister, and I am grateful for her unwavering support.
 

Why Door?

So, why did I choose to buy a door instead of something for myself? Firstly, the primary reason was the urgent need for safety at that time. Without a door, our home would be vulnerable to potential theft or intrusion, posing a risk to our security.
Secondly, I opted to purchase a door for my initial withdrawal as it symbolized the gateway to the best opportunities that HIVE has brought into my life. Every time I opened that door, it served as a reminder of my perseverance and determination not to let any opportunity pass me by.
 Lastly, seeing the joy on my parents' faces brought me immense fulfillment. Witnessing their happiness and knowing that I could contribute to their well-being was a deeply rewarding experience. It touched me to see how a small gesture like providing financial assistance could ease their worries and enhance their budget planning.

(I apologize for the poor quality of my camera, but please take a look at the pictures below. This is the door that they purchased, and I am overjoyed to see it every time.)
 

  To my dear Hive friends, I extend my heartfelt gratitude for being part of this journey and for the invaluable support you have provided. Your presence and assistance have been truly impactful, and I encourage each of you to continue sharing your stories as the rewards are undeniably fulfilling.

A special thank you goes out to the wonderful Ates I have mentioned above. Your influence and guidance have been instrumental, and I truly appreciate the blessings you have received from above. I have no regrets in looking up to individuals like you, and I am grateful for your presence in my life. Thank you all so much for everything. Please bear with me as I may seek your guidance from time to time. Hahahaha!pwwweeaaseee😅

That's all for now, everyone. Thank you for reading. Stay safe, stay hydrated, and Mabuhay!😉