When I started Hands-On Parent while Earning many years ago, I simply wanted a space where I could document my journey as a hands-on mom, share tips, and encourage other parents who also wanted to be present for their children while pursuing their passions and livelihood. I never imagined that one day, this humble blog would find its way to Feedspot’s list of Top Blogs.

What makes this year even more special is that Hands-On Parent while Earning has consistently landed on this list in the past years. For 2025, it’s not only part of Feedspot’s Top Blogs overall but also ranked among the Top 12 Philippine Parenting Blogs and the Top 15 Philippine Women’s Blogs. These recognitions truly make my heart full.

Still, when I saw the announcement, I couldn’t help but feel pleasantly surprised. Honestly, with all the challenges of balancing family, work, and writing, there were moments when it felt easier to slow down or even take a step back from blogging.

The past year has been especially demanding. On top of the usual daily juggle, I’ve been navigating the health challenges that come with perimenopause, which at times has made it harder to keep up with the same energy and focus I used to have. At the same time, homeschooling has become more intense with my three boys—especially now that my eldest is already in Senior High School. Managing different grade levels, subjects, and activities while also ensuring our home continues to be a nurturing space is both rewarding and exhausting. (I wrote about perimenopause and homeschooling here.)

Writing consistently is not always easy—sometimes life gets in the way, and sometimes inspiration takes its time to arrive. But these recognitions reminded me why I write in the first place: to inspire, to encourage, and to connect with people who share the same dream of being present for their families while still contributing meaningfully to the world.

They’ve rekindled my motivation. It’s as if God gave me a gentle nudge to persevere and continue sharing stories, reflections, and lessons learned along the way. I’m deeply grateful to all my readers—those who leave comments, those who quietly read and nod in agreement, and those who share my posts with friends. You are part of this milestone, too.

So, as we celebrate this little victory together, I invite you to journey with me further. Let’s keep learning how to parent with love, work with purpose, and live with intention. And yes, I’ll be writing more often—because now, more than ever, I’m reminded that words can touch lives.

Thank you, Feedspot, for these recognitions. And thank You, Lord, for the grace to keep going.

Here’s to more stories, more encouragement, and more shared victories in the days ahead!

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