I woke up from a sleepover having achieved zero hours of sleep. 

Two months in and somehow I penned plus three more to my list of favorite girls. They all share a strong connection to music. I don’t. It’s just interesting to watch people who already know each other well move through conversations. 

Simbang Gabi before anything else. Dinner happened. Kat’s belated birthday celebration happened with a special participation of a strawberry shortcake. Reflection happened.  Mini spa happened. That short program was Gia’s brainchild. 

It felt nice to simply participate and not facilitate for once. Showing up as myself was enough. I’m really grateful for that part especially since I didn’t get to have Advent recollection this year. It worked as a substitute, unintentionally. I have to commend the skin care service, too. 10/10. Mask drying time is apparently prime thinking time. With stream sounds in the background, we thought about the things we’re grateful for, those we’ll live behind, and what to look forward to in 2026. I mentioned being intentional with my relationships this year. I did not announce that they were part of it. 

There was a quick visit to 7eleven but lights eventually went out. Conscious enough to make sure one person gets decent sleep (Kat powered by biogesic), I turned to my side of the bed quietly and watched the city lights.

Roomed with Gia two months ago, late night chat is basically tradition. Window-side bed duty while talking about everything and nothing. Yes, sleep is always an option. Lol. I used to live like this, I told her, mind active past midnight and used to write a lot. Later on, Gen joined in.  I mostly listened, amused with how unfiltered but warm their conversation unfold. 

Came 4am and we decided to call it a night. Night???!!! With all the tossing and turning, I let go of trying to doze off and chose to feed myself instead. The morning was fine. Slow, still fun. 

There’s something about sharing a space with women. Hormonal, yes 😆 but also communal and affirming. I’d say that being with women is, in itself, a celebration. It’s just nice to have people who get you.

I survived a sleepover without sleep. Now, let me catch those zzzzzzs.