I took a MoveIt ride despite the threat of heavy rain to get to Megamall for PICOF (Philippine International Comics Festival).
It was totally worth it because I ticked off everything on my to-do list. (True ENTJ here…)
A week ago, the National Book Development Board (NBDB) of the Philippines emailed me that my application to be a certified author was approved, so hooray! NBDB-certified na ang lola mo!

PICOF was where I finally met my previously online-only friend in person: Tobie Abad — incredibly talented, tall, and gwapo. Thank you for your time, Tobie! And for the freebie too. I gifted him with the book Group by Christie Tate, just because I felt like it. (Just a hunch. Also, I keep a minimalist cupboard bookshelf.)
At PICOF, I also took a photo of my web designer. He is someone I forgot to credit earlier for helping with my website: Glenn of Wolfe Studios. Since I was at his group Pulsar Press’ table, I also snapped a pic with Charles Llanto, and we exchanged books as agreed.
While at Pulsar, I spotted Just Villanueva, author of the bestseller D.I.E. with the unforgettable book cover. Of course, I had to take another picture.
Lastly, by chance, I finally met Jen the Reading Lion, who reviewed my book on Booksta, as well as another (painfully shy Booksta), Ceej.
I left Megamall hurriedly because rain was threatening again, but I enjoyed this little jaunt. A bit of an escape from my clinical work and mom life.
Every time I do something writerly, my heart jogs like a horse and makes me feel intensely alive.
Note to self: more moments like this, Melany. Because you’re worth it.
I acknowledge that artist in me must be fed.


