First of all, I really don't know what to say.

I am still waiting for my brain to fully process my thoughts and turn them into words. Because right now, my mind's clouded with emotions that the words just might not come out right [insert inaudible words, shriek, and mild and stifled sobs here]. And I also suspect ninjas have been cutting onions in front of me again.

But it's not what you think it is. No drama, I promise. Earlier today, I was in for a huge surprise because.... drumroll please...



Gasp!

I really wasn't expecting this. Twelve hours since I knew about it, I'm totally still on cloud nine. Who would have thought? Although not everyone knows about this prestigious award-giving body that aims to recognize the best blogs among the Filipinos, this is kind of huge for me, considering that:

1. There were over a hundred thousand Filipino blogs all over the world. In which 2,693 have been recognized by readers to be deemed worthy of a nomination. Out of that only 1,026 made it to the voting stage and have been published to the hall of fame;

2. 160+ nominees fall under Personal/Diary category (where my blog belongs). And only 6 made it to the finals;

3. The panel of judges was a line up of stellar personalities coming from the Philippine's biggest media companies like ABS-CBN, CNN, Inquirer, Philippine Star, Rappler, and so on.

I am totally blown away. And to say that I am ecstatic would be an understatement. I can't believe I made it this far. Really.

I wouldn't have done it without you though. Yes, you. Whether you nominated/voted for me or not, supported me or not, the fact that you are here reading (or even hate-reading) this very blog has made all the difference. But more than that, I am so glad that in one way or another, I made a difference to an individual, the country, or the world through the stories I write. That alone has already made me a champion. Winning this is just a cherry on top of the icing.

Before I get far too excited and start speaking gibberish again, I'd like to say my sincerest and deepest gratitude to everyone who believed in me, inspired me to continue writing, and pushed me do better. To the Big Guy up there, my family, friends, Jan, and of course those avid readers who supported me all the way... Thank you! My words will never be enough but know that my heart is full of gratitude. I am deeply humbled.




P.S. Now I'm just wondering if somebody can sponsor me a DVO-MNL round trip ticket? Haha. I would love to attend that Gala night, walk the red carpet, and meet all those amazing bloggers out there. Is that too much to ask?