Maryse Is Blogging Again

I am the mother of 7 cats, 6 of them are rescues. This will be my outlet for rants, rambles, and let my creativity juices flowing.

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I’m back with another wish list blog, and this time it’s extra special!

I recently got a response from my niece, and now I have a curated list of items that perfectly reflect Gen Z preferences. I was curious to explore what they’re into these days, so in this post, I’m highlighting more of what my niece personally loves.

She even asked a few of her friends for input, and interestingly, some of their choices overlap with hers. So really, it feels like I’m not just hearing from my niece—it’s like I’m getting a mini focus group of Gen Zs giving me their best picks.

Let’s start strong with the bags and shoes. Honestly, I’m impressed! Leather shoes dominate the lineup—Mary Janes, in particular, are stealing the spotlight. They’re the cutest, and they scream timeless style with a Gen Z twist.

The bags? A perfect mix of cute and fabulous. My personal favorite is the brown leather bag she added—it’s giving chic vibes all the way.

Now, onto the plushies. Can we talk about how adorable these are? Mofusand plushies made the cut, and since they’re cats, they instantly won me over. I love that she included these because they cater to the child in her—and honestly, they cater to the child in all of us.

Of course, makeup had to be on the list. She’s growing into such a beautiful young lady, and her cosmetics lineup is chef’s kiss. The brand she chose is excellent, and I trust her taste—these are solid picks that any beauty lover would approve of.

The clothes she added? A total vibe. The brown leather jacket is giving biker chick energy, while the F1 bomber jacket is simply to die for. Together, they create a lineup that balances edgy, trendy, and effortlessly cool

This list has almost everything for someone with a mix of fashion, whimsy, and overall cool vibes. I can definitely see her personality shining through in every choice. The combination of items feels so her.

It’s wild how time flies—she’s growing into such a fashionable young lady, yet I’m thrilled to see her inner child still peeking through. That balance of maturity and playfulness is what makes this list so special.

That’s all for this edition of my wish list blog—and yes, I changed the title to match the vibe. This list is proof that Gen Z style is bold, fun, and unapologetically authentic.

[marysetriestoblogagain]

My First Shein Purchase: A Larger Stamp Puncher for My Junk Journal

I recently bought a larger stamp puncher for my junk journal. At first, I thought it might be too big for the pages, but when I tried it out, I realized it actually captures more of the print I’m punching. The only catch is that it takes up more space on each page, so I can only fit about six prints per spread. Honestly, that’s fine—it just means I’ll be able to fill up my journal faster!

This puncher is also my very first purchase from Shein. I’m not sure if I’ll buy anything else from them in the future, but this was definitely a great first find. For my first two pages using the puncher, I used packaging from Pan de Manila—the paper bag our pan de sal came in. I’ve always liked their bags because they feature lovely illustrations and artworks.

One of the bags was from their Christmas collection, full of vibrant colors and featuring a parol (a traditional Filipino Christmas lantern), which I thought was beautiful. The other bag seemed like their usual packaging, though I’m not entirely sure since we don’t buy from them often. Either way, I was able to get a couple of nice punches from it, and I really appreciate the artistry in their designs.

I’m excited to keep experimenting with this puncher, especially with different kinds of packaging. Hopefully, I’ll be able to fill up my junk journal with even more creative pieces in the future.

[marysetriestoblogagain]

Random Ramble

Maybe this is redirection—maybe something better is waiting for me. It wasn’t meant for me, and that’s why it ended. I just wish I had more time to prove myself, but life had other plans.

It ended, yes, but I know that doors will continue to open. Opportunities will still come my way. I just need to be brave enough to walk through them and see where life takes me.

I’m sad that I won’t be able to help out for a while, but I’m holding onto hope that the next opportunity will be better—that it will provide more, not just for me but for us.

It was a good run. I had a good run. But it had to end, and now I need to accept that and move forward.

[marysetriestoblogagain]

Being vulnerable right now

Life has felt heavy lately, and coping has been difficult. Every day seems like a battle with my anxiety, and my depression feels like it’s consuming me. I try to distract myself through blogging and junk journaling, but even that doesn’t always ease the weight. I stopped writing on Wattpad—not sure if it’s writer’s block or simply because I’m not okay.

I haven’t been myself, but I’m doing my best not to give up. Even in the middle of all this negativity, I can see my faith growing stronger. There are days when I pray and the emotions overwhelm me until I cry. In those moments, I ask for help, guidance, and stronger faith.

Sometimes I feel like doubting Thomas, questioning everything. Other times, I’m like Nathaniel, full of uncertainty. But I strive to be like Peter—to step out of the boat, walk on the water, and trust Him. Trust the process. Trust what’s happening. Believe that everything will be okay.

Someday, the pain will fade. The problems may not all disappear, but some will. Life will ease, and joy will return. Eventually, things will be better again.

[marysetriestoblogagain]

Working From Home & My Nipple Cover Journey

This is a totally random post, but since I’ve been working from home, I’ve gotten used to looking a little… well, “homeless chic.” Basically, I don’t bother with bras when I’m just at home. Most of the time, I either wear tops with built-in padding or rely on nipple covers.

I started out with the disposable ones made of paper-like material. They’re fine—comfortable enough and they do the job, though they don’t really minimize the appearance of the girls. Still, they work, so no complaints there.

Then I tried a breathable version with little holes in them. These are silicone, lightweight, washable, and reusable. I really liked how airy they felt. On the other hand, I also tested a cheaper silicone option that wasn’t breathable. It stuck well at first, but the more I washed it, the less reusable it became—the stickiness just faded away.

Recently, I discovered a brand called Adore and I’m currently trying out their Anti-Drop nipple covers. What I love about these is that there’s no sticky part directly on the nipple, so they’re super comfortable. They’re lightweight, they stick well, and so far I’m impressed. I haven’t reused them yet, so I’ll probably do a follow-up review later, but for now, they’re affordable and comfy.

Next on my list is Hiraya, a local brand that claims to be silicone-free. They’re a bit pricier, but I’ve seen great reviews, so I’m curious to try them out too.

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✨ Junk Journal Update: Pages 3 & 4 ✨

I was able to finish two more pages in my junk journal, and I’m really happy with how they turned out!

Page 3 is mostly made up of stationery I’ve had lying around for ages but never used. I cut out some pieces and arranged them on the page. It’s a little subtle compared to my usual style—pretty, but not as colorful as I usually prefer.

That’s probably why I’m more biased toward Page 4, which is a mix of food packaging. One Sunday, we ate rice in a box from Army Navy, and their packaging was so colorful that I couldn’t resist saving it. I cut out part of my box and another from my brother’s. The food was great too, but of course, I made sure to clean the boxes before cutting them out—I definitely don’t want ants in my journal or anywhere else in my room!

I also added a piece from a Christmas box from Mr. Donut that my mom got us. It’s bright red with snowflakes, very festive and Christmasy, and I love how it adds a cheerful vibe to the page.

So that’s my junk journal update for now. I’m excited to keep adding more pages in the future and see how the whole journal comes together.

[marysetriestoblogagain]

My Cats Have Become Extra Clingy Lately

Working from home has given me the chance to notice subtle shifts in my cats’ behavior. I live with seven cats—six of them rescues—and recently, a few of them have become especially clingy.

Two of my male cats stand out the most. One is neutered, the other not yet. Chappie, my white boy, insists on sleeping right next to me, pressing his body as close as possible like he’s guarding me. Kitler (yes, his name has a story of its own) has a different approach—if he sees another cat or even a person near me, he’ll immediately move closer and claim the spot for himself.

Then there’s Cowie, one of my female cats. She has her own brand of clinginess: she stretches out and settles either on my chest, tucked under my arm, or sometimes even sprawled across my lap. Chappie occasionally does the same.

What amazes me is how pets have this quiet power to calm and ground us. They can’t solve life’s bigger problems, but they ease the weight of anxiety, pain, or depression in ways that feel almost magical. After my surgery, I noticed their clinginess even more—like they knew I needed extra comfort. Right now, all of them are curled up around me, and it feels like a blessing.

I’m deeply grateful for these little creatures. On days when I’m sick, anxious, or simply worn out, their presence helps me feel better. They remind me that love and comfort can come in the simplest forms—like a warm purr beside you.

[marysetriestoblogagain]

My Random Ramble: TV vs. YouTube

I haven’t been watching much TV lately. Most of my screen time has been on YouTube—channels like itsjudyslife, mukbangs, endless Brooklyn 99 compilations, and a ton of body cam videos. My go-to channels for those are Police Insider, Daily Dose of Crime, and one Midwest-based channel (I can’t remember the full name, but it’s a favorite).

I also enjoy shorts, especially from Lakenzo—the “dandelion girl,” who I really like—and JapanEats. Sometimes I watch CleoLongLegs, the Three Snoots, and the fun energy of her household. And lately, I’ve been loving MEITIME—her Japan vlogs are stunning, with amazing cinematography.

Back to TV

After all that YouTube, I finally went back to watching TV and binged High Potential season two. I had totally forgotten it was airing in January because I was so caught up in YouTube. The show is still one of my favorites, but I’m not sure how I feel about the new character—their chief. He’s a bit sketchy, though I’ll admit he makes each episode more interesting. I’ve already finished all the episodes available and now I’m just waiting for the next one.

Next on my list might be Will Trent or The Pitt—I haven’t decided yet. I’m also looking forward to season two of Trauma Code, a K-drama that was supposed to start on the 23rd. Since delays happen, I’ll check Netflix tomorrow to see if it’s up.

My brother also mentioned the prequel to House of the Dragon, so I’ll be checking that out too. And of course, I’m excited for the next season of Reacher.

There’s also talk of a short two-season series based on Scarpetta. I’m not thrilled about the casting—Kay Scarpetta doesn’t feel like a perfect match—but I’ve read that book and a few others in the series, so I’ll give it a chance and see if they do it justice.

Writing Update

So that’s my ramble for today. It’s been a while since I last posted here because I got too focused on writing on Wattpad again. I’ve been continuing three of my existing stories, which made me neglect my blog a bit. Sorry about that! I’ll try to post random rambles here and there whenever I can.

[marysetriestoblogagain]

Junk Journal Update ✨

I just wrapped up the second page of my junk journal, and honestly—I’m in love with how it turned out. The mix of colors and textures makes it feel so alive. I’ve been cutting out prints from all sorts of packaging: food wrappers, a gift wrapper, and even a tea box I didn’t realize we had tucked away at home. It’s amazing how everyday things can suddenly feel like little treasures once they’re glued onto a page.

My goal is to fill at least half of this notebook and see what other prints and scraps I can collect along the way. I’m hoping to go out more this year so I can gather tickets, wrappers, and other bits of life to add in. For me, junk journaling has become a kind of therapy—it calms me down, gives me space to be creative, and reminds me that things don’t have to be perfect to be meaningful.

There’s a special section in the notebook where I stick notes, letters, cards, and bigger pieces of gift wrap from presents I’ve received. I’m even thinking of adding movie tickets or bus stubs if I get the chance. It feels like building a scrapbook of everyday moments, and I’m excited to see how it grows.

So that’s my little update for now. Page two is done, and the journey continues—one wrapper, one cutout, one memory at a time

[marysetriestoblogagain]

The Food That Brings Me Home

One of my best friends recently posted a question: What specific food gives you nostalgia, or holds deep meaning in your life? That inspired me to share mine.

For me, that food is Biko—a sticky rice cake dessert here in the Philippines, part of what we call kakanin. It’s more than just a sweet treat; it’s a memory, a feeling, a connection. Whenever I taste Biko that resembles the flavor of my childhood, I get that “Ratatouille moment”—suddenly transported back to simpler times.

My late grandmother, may she rest in peace, used to make Biko whenever I asked, back when we were living in Boloco. If she had the ingredients, she would prepare it for me and the family. And if not, we’d buy it from her friend, Aling Ising. There’s a distinct taste in their versions—whether it was my Lola’s or Aling Ising’s—that I’ve never found anywhere else.

Other relatives or vendors make Biko differently, and while it’s still good, it doesn’t carry the same magic. I remember one time, after a hospital check-up with my parents, we bought Biko from a vendor near a bakery. It wasn’t quite my Lola’s, but it was close enough to stir up nostalgia. That bite reminded me of her again, and in that moment, Biko became more than food—it was a way to connect with her, even though she’s gone.

I’d love to learn how to make Biko myself someday, though I know it’s time-consuming with all the stirring involved. Maybe I’ll find a recipe I can follow and eventually master it.

So yes, Biko is that one food that brings me back to my childhood, to my Lola, and to the comfort of her love.

[marysetriestoblogagain]

My Last Meal

If I were ever invited to sit down for my “last meal,” I wouldn’t go for a five-course tasting menu or some chef’s experimental foam. No, mine would be a chaotic parade of comfort food, the kind of spread that makes you wonder if I’m curating a feast or just raiding three different kitchens at once.

We’d kick things off with tuna gimbap, those tidy little rolls that pretend they’re healthy but really just want to be eaten by the handful. Before I can even finish the plate, someone’s handing me odeng in steaming broth, fish cakes bobbing like they’re auditioning for a soup opera. And then, because balance is overrated, I’d dive straight into jjajangmyeon—noodles drowning in glossy black bean sauce, messy enough to stain a shirt but worth every slurp.

But wait, the fast-food gods demand their offering. Enter the Quarter Pounder from McDonald’s, extra pickles, no onions, because I like my burgers tangy and drama-free. To keep the energy up, I’d chase it with an iced mocha coffee from Burger King, the kind that’s more sugar than caffeine, paired with hash bites that crunch like tiny golden nuggets of joy.

Dessert? Oh, we’re not choosing just one. There’s a New York–style chocolate chip cookie, thick and gooey, sitting next to a strawberry-sprinkled donut from Dunkin that looks like it was designed by a cartoon character. And because every feast needs a finale, I’d raise a glass of Coca-Cola so cold it hurts your teeth, the fizz snapping like fireworks in the background.

This isn’t a meal of refinement—it’s a meal of chaos, comfort, and pure happiness. It’s the kind of spread that says, “If this is the end, I’m going out sticky-fingered, sugar-rushed, and grinning.”

[marysetriestoblogagain]

It’s that time of the year again, when we pause and think about resolutions. But for me, this isn’t about strict rules or promises—it’s more about intentions, gentle reminders of the things I want to focus on to make my life better and myself better. I want to be more mindful with my spending, saving more than I did before and remembering the difference between wants and needs. I want to find balance in my work and life, to render overtime when I can but not at the expense of rest, because I need to earn enough to cover responsibilities and still save a little for the future.

I want to continue my journey toward better health—not just to look good, but to feel good inside and out. Even twenty minutes a day on the treadmill, cutting back on sweets and sodas, and being more intentional with my choices will help me feel stronger. I want to take care of myself by visiting my OB more often, having my blood checked, and monitoring my heart rate, because being proactive matters. Alongside this, I want to keep strengthening my faith through daily prayers, guided by alarms I’ve set throughout the day, so I can remain mindful and intentional in my spiritual life.

I’d like to explore a part-time job or gig I can do for a few hours each day, since working from home gives me flexibility. The extra income would help with expenses and savings. I also want to save enough to care for my three cats—two to be neutered and one to be spayed—and provide them with vitamins and healthier food, because they deserve the best.

I want to travel, even just within the Philippines. Maybe glamping, maybe the beach—anywhere I can rest, relax, and breathe. My body needs it, my mind needs it. And finally, I want to see him. After years of planning and postponing, I’ll make it happen. I’ll plan something, meet up, and finally spend time together.

These are my intentions for 2026: to grow, to balance, to care, to love, and to live with more intention. Not resolutions to pressure myself with, but gentle reminders of the life I want to build. Here’s to a year of quiet joy, steady growth, and moments that make the heart feel at home.

[marysetriestoblogagain]

Hear me out.

There is a tradition here in the Philippines where children—and sometimes even adults—go house to house singing Christmas carols. It may be a group of kids or just two, but they sing and then ask for money in exchange. In a way, it’s like giving a gift, and it happens every year.

What I don’t like about it is the expectation. Every time they come to a house, they expect to receive something—usually money. And if they don’t get anything, the mindset is that the people in that house are “madamot” or “kuripot.” But is that really the reason why people don’t give to carolers?

Here’s my two cents. People have their reasons. Maybe they’re struggling financially and don’t have extra to spare. Maybe they’re going through something—a loved one passed away, someone left, or they’re dealing with a mental breakdown. So why judge people when they’re unable to give? This doesn’t just apply to carolers; it applies to friends, family, and coworkers too. If you’re unable to give, unable to share, or unable to extend something, you’re often judged as selfish. But why are we like this? Why do we judge when we don’t know the real reason behind someone’s choice?

Why not just accept it, move on, and go to the next house? If this tradition is truly about caring, then we should realize that being more understanding and open matters more than being greedy. At the end of the day, it’s just money—something material that will eventually fade away. We won’t be able to take it with us when we die.

So maybe the real spirit of Christmas caroling isn’t about what we receive, but about the joy we share. Let’s remember that kindness, patience, and understanding are the gifts that last far longer than coins dropped into a box.

✨ And if we look at it that way, every song, every smile, and every knock on the door becomes less about the expectation of giving—and more about the reminder that Christmas is meant to connect us, not divide us. That’s the kind of tradition worth keeping.

[marysetriestoblogagain]

What's in My Bag?

Do people still do “What’s in My Bag?” blogs? Well, I’m bringing it back! Since I switch bags often, I thought I’d share my basics—the essentials I carry with me almost every day.

Most of the time, I use my Champion crossbody bag. It is made of soft, dark-wash denim and was gifted to me by my mom. Just last month, she gave me another bag: UNIQLO’s round mini shoulder bag in beige. Both are small, practical, and perfect for my everyday commute. (that if I was going to commute somewhere)

My Top Three Essentials

Lip Balm – Right now I’m using a blueberry-scented moisturizing lip balm (I think the brand is Bosua). I can’t leave the house without it.

Inhaler – This one’s from Thailand, a gift from my cousin. It’s my lifesaver whenever I have a clogged nose. The scent is soothing and oddly relaxing.

Alcohol Spray – A habit I picked up during COVID that stuck with me. It’s handy when I’m far from a washroom and want to keep my hands clean.

Other Daily Must-Haves

Wet wipes & handkerchief/tissue – Essential for commuting in the Philippines’ humid weather.

Coin purse – I prefer this over a bulky wallet. I usually carry exact change and my MetroCard since I ride the train often.

Pen – For signing or jotting things down without pulling out my phone.

Battery pack – Not always, but I bring it when I know I’ll need extra juice for my phone.

Tech Essentials

I actually carry two phones:

One with a plan for data and calls.

My main phone, which I use to stay connected with family and friends.

Extras I Sometimes Toss In

A face mask

Earphones (to tune out bus or train noise)

A small decanted perfume (for a quick refresh)

Candy (because a little sweetness goes a long way)

And that’s pretty much everything in my bag! Oh, and don’t forget to peek at the pin I have on it—it’s so me.

[marysetriestoblogagain]

My Little Junk Journal Journey

I was scrolling through Instagram one day when I came across someone making a junk journal using a stamp puncher. It looked fun and oddly satisfying, so I searched for one online and ended up buying a small puncher for myself. It’s tinier than I expected, but it does the job. I actually started this months ago, and today I finally finished my first page.

The page is a mix of random food wrappers, a couple of bus tickets, and other little scraps I’ve collected. I’m planning to buy a larger puncher next so I can cover more space with each cut. I also found versions that make simple square or oval punches, and I’m tempted to try those too.

I used to do junk journaling years ago—mostly stickers and cutouts—but I stopped because I kept thinking everything had to look “aesthetic.” Now I’m realizing that a junk journal is supposed to be whatever you want it to be. It’s literally junk. It doesn’t need to be perfect, so I’m not sure why I kept chasing perfection in the first place.

Finishing this first page made me excited to add more variety. I want to experiment with different punch shapes, maybe throw in some stickers again, and even add a small section for memories. I’m also planning to save up for a photo printer so I can include pictures I take on my phone.

Anyway, that’s my little ramble for this random Thursday. I’m hoping I can keep this junk journal going—and enjoy the process this time around.

[marysetriestoblogagain]

2025 Watchlist (Movies I watched this year)

This year, I found myself drawn to stories that linger—films that speak softly but leave a lasting echo. My watchlist became a patchwork of genres and moods, stitched together by curiosity, comfort, and the occasional surprise. From political thrillers to whimsical animations, each title offered a different kind of escape, a different kind of truth.

I began with G20, Conclave, and Heads of State, three gripping narratives that pulled me into the world of diplomacy, power, and quiet tension. Each one earned a perfect score in my book, not just for their storytelling but for the way they made me lean in, listen, and reflect. Hidden Figures and The Help followed, reminding me of the strength found in resilience and the quiet courage of women who rewrite history. Shirley, with its haunting elegance, stayed with me long after the credits rolled.

Then came the Studio Ghibli wave—gentle, magical, and deeply human. Kiki’s Delivery Service, My Neighbor Totoro, Howl’s Moving Castle, Ponyo, Spirited Away, and Arrietty filled my screen with wonder. Each one felt like a lullaby for the soul, a reminder that even the smallest gestures can carry weight. I gave them all near-perfect ratings, not because they dazzled me with spectacle, but because they made me feel safe, seen, and quietly enchanted.

Midway through the year, I stumbled upon The Thursday Murder Club, a delightful surprise that blended mystery with warmth. KPOP Demon Hunters brought a burst of color and energy, while In The Sky offered a dreamy, almost poetic escape. These newer titles felt like fresh pages in a well-loved journal—unexpected, but welcome.

Toward the end of the year, I added a few more films that haven’t yet settled into memory, but their landscapes—rolling hills, soft clouds—hint at stories still unfolding. I rated them highly, trusting that sometimes, the feeling a film leaves behind matters more than the plot itself.

Looking back, this watchlist feels like a quiet celebration of nuance. It’s not just about what I watched, but how each film met me where I was—whether I needed comfort, challenge, or simply a moment to breathe. Here's to more stories in the year ahead, and to the quiet joy of finding meaning in the movies we choose to love

[marysetriestoblogagain]

This post is all about the series I watched this year, 2025. I’ll be listing down the shows I’ve seen—though in random order—and sharing what I think about each one.

Spoiler alert: most of the shows in this post are about law enforcement. I’m not sure why, but it seems like I’ve been drawn to that genre lately.

The first series I want to talk about is The Good Cop on Netflix. It’s an older show, and surprisingly, it stars Josh Groban as the lead actor. I was honestly shocked to see him playing a detective because I’ve always known him as a classical singer. I really enjoyed it because it shows a different side of Josh, and the story itself is engaging. There’s one storyline focused on him, and another centered on his father, who is trying to find out who killed his wife—Josh’s mother. It’s sad that the show was canceled and won’t be getting another season.

Next is 9 Puzzles, which airs on Disney Channel. I like this one because it leans into true crime. There are a lot of scenes and episodes with gory imagery, but I’m used to it, so it doesn’t bother me. I love the mystery and how the lead detective constantly questions himself and his “partner,” wondering if she might actually be the killer. The story revolves around a killing spree connected to the lead actress’s psychologist, which makes it even more intriguing.

The next show is another Korean drama—Trauma Code: Heroes on Call. I honestly didn’t expect to enjoy K‑dramas in their original language, but I’ve been watching this one in Korean with subtitles, and I’m really liking it. The series follows a medical team handling high‑pressure surgeries and emergency cases, with the lead surgeon even performing a pre‑op procedure inside a chopper in the mountains at one point. It’s chaotic in a good way, and I love how it gives you a glimpse into the medical field—how they deal with trauma, tough decisions, and intense situations. Surprisingly, this has become one of the shows I’m enjoying the most.

Back to American series—this time on Disney+—I watched Will Trent, and one of my favorite things about it is his Chihuahua, Betty, who is adorable and sassy in the best way. Will is part of the GBI, a brilliant detective‑investigator who also happens to be dyslexic, so reading is a challenge he’s actively working through. The show focuses on his sharp problem‑solving skills as he tackles different cases, but it also weaves in bits of his personal life—his relationships, his family issues, and the things he’s still healing from—which makes the character even more compelling.

Another Disney+ series I enjoyed is High Potential, which has a similar case‑of‑the‑week vibe to Will Trent, but with a twist: the lead isn’t a detective at all. She starts out as a housekeeper at the precinct, and one day, while cleaning, she notices an inconsistency on the evidence board—something she technically shouldn’t even be touching. Her insight ends up helping the team, slowly earning her a place among them. She’s also a single mom of three, which adds another layer to her character. There’s a new season out, and I’m planning to watch it soon.

I also watched Abbott Elementary, the only full comedy on my 2025 list. It follows a group of teachers and their principal in a public school, filmed in a documentary‑style format that includes behind‑the‑scenes moments and fourth‑wall breaks. There’s plenty of banter, friendly competition, and chaotic school energy, but at the end of the day, they always come together as a team. One of my favorite arcs was when they fought to prevent budget cuts to protect the school and the kids. It’s a feel‑good show, and I’m excited for the next season.

On Prime Video, I watched Reacher, which is based on a novel series I’m not familiar with, but a friend recommended it, so I gave it a try. There’s a lot of action—punching, blood, violence—but I’m used to that. The biggest surprise for me was Alan Ritchson; I didn’t realize he came from a completely different genre before this. Seeing clips of his earlier roles compared to his serious, focused, case‑solving character in Reacher is wild. And yes, he’s very attractive, which definitely doesn’t hurt. The storytelling is solid, maybe because it’s adapted from books, but either way, I enjoyed it.

Another medical series I watched—this time on Max—is The Pitt, which reminds me a bit of Trauma Code because it also focuses on an emergency unit. But unlike other medical dramas, this one stays inside the ER and follows the team—medical students, residents, and their lead surgeon—through a single day, hour by hour. It shows how they handle each emergency, how they cope with grief, and how deeply a patient’s death affects them even when they’ve done everything they can. It’s a heavy, emotional show, but a really good one, and I’m looking forward to the next season whenever it comes out.

The next Korean drama I watched on Netflix is Mercy for None, a one‑season mini‑series that follows an ex‑gangster seeking justice for his brother’s death. It’s an emotional story filled with intense fight scenes and some gory moments, but what really stands out is how his journey uncovers hidden truths about his brother and the gang he was once part of—possibly even the mafia, if I remember correctly. There are several moments where he’s badly hurt or nearly killed, yet he keeps pushing forward to uncover why his brother was murdered, who did it, and to finally get the justice he deserves

The next series I watched is Kaos, which is basically a modern take on mythology. Zeus is played by Jeff Goldblum—because honestly, who else could it be—and I love how the show reimagines the gods in modern clothes, speaking like regular people instead of the traditional, historical style we usually see. Their depiction of the gods is fun and refreshing, and I especially enjoyed the scenes involving the River Styx. Hades is played by an actor from Harry Potter (I can’t remember which one), and their version of the underworld looks like a corporate office, which is such a clever twist. Sadly, the series was discontinued, so in Filipino terms, bitin siya—they stopped right at a climactic moment that clearly needed a next episode or even a whole new chapter. It’s such a bummer. My favorite character is Medusa; instead of looking terrifying like most portrayals, she wears a head wrap to hide her snakes and has this cool, badass pin‑up vibe that I really loved.

The next one is House of the Dragon, which I watched after binge‑watching Game of Thrones in just a week or two back then. Since I’m fully up to date with the GoT universe, I was excited when this new series came out, and it definitely delivered. As expected, there are plenty of dragons, power struggles for the throne, and yes—lots of sex, just like the original series. What I really love, though, is the emotional depth each character goes through depending on the situation. The casting is perfect, and every actor fits their role so well, especially Rhaenyra, who I absolutely adore; her performance is incredible. I’m definitely looking forward to the next season

The last show on my list is Ballard, which I stumbled upon while browsing for something new to watch after finishing the latest season of Reacher. The lead actress looked so familiar—I think she might have played Nikita before, though I could be wrong. This series is another cop drama, and she plays a detective who deeply values her team. I love how she supports each member, treats them like family, and genuinely cares about their well‑being. There’s a heartbreaking moment when one of the team members dies because of a case they were working on, but seeing them close cases and help victims still feels rewarding. I’m not sure if it’s getting another season, but I really hope so. It has the same vibe as the other cop shows I’ve watched, and honestly, I’m enjoying it a lot.

Looking back at everything I watched this year, I realized how much stories can shape our moods, comfort us, or even surprise us. Each series had something that pulled me in—whether it was the characters, the world‑building, or the emotions behind every scene. I’m grateful for all the shows that kept me company throughout 2025, and I’m excited to discover even more as the year goes on. Here’s to more stories, more characters to love, and more moments that stay with us long after the credits roll.