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The coming of COVID-19 reminded me, in its most pragmatic ways, that I only have this lifetime. When lockdowns and restrictions were placed, I was forced to evaluate my past, my present, and my future. Have I been living the best of my life? Can I die in this instant with no regrets? What’s in it for me tomorrow?

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I know I was not alone in this dilemma. We all felt that way.

And now, after trudging in a state of anxiety and burnout, we find ourselves “freed” and eager to really “live” our lives. Some decided to build bridges; others cut off toxic relationships. Some left their 10-year desk job to do what they love. Others finally opened the closet and embraced their true selves. Some went abroad; some came home.

As for me, I realized that I cannot die — yet. Being the breadwinner of the family, I still need to make sure that I can leave my loved ones in peace. Also, for selfish reasons, there are still poems I want to write and places I want to go.

And speaking of places, I would like to share with you this humble spot we found in the mountains of Cebu City.

<em><h6>But first, here’s a little back story…</h6></em>

Spartan Trail is one of the most frequented hiking and trail running destinations in Cebu City. I remember when my friend Shiela first brought me to this place, there used to be only one popular long route that spans from Sitio Banawa to Brgy. Buhisan and ends in Brgy. Pamutan.

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However, over the years, more and more trails have been made and opened. Locals also took advantage of the sudden increase of outdoor enthusiasts and opened small businesses providing refreshments and snack to tired hikers. These are Boss Kafe (a play on words for Bo’s Coffee), Starbuk's (Starbucks), and Kofi Ben (The Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf)

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One day, James, being the map guy in the group, led us on a hike starting from Brgy. Quiot. Our goal? To reach Tulong Krus. It was a great time to be one with nature since the weather's fine (alright, maybe a little tad hot), the hills and greens are feast to the eyes, and there's no unnecessary noise.

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We took many wrong turns along the way and, despite being the only one of the three who has been to Tulong Krus, I was no help at all. Yours truly was — and still is — a person with no sense of direction. Gladly, a kind local pointed us to the right direction. We went back on the trail, passing by a household where we were asked if our destination was to the pool.

Imagine our confusion. A pool? In the middle of the mountains? In this heat?

We kindly said no, then continued with the hike. It was almost lunch time when we reach Tulong Krus and we left immediately as the sun was scorching hot. 

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Back in the city, the thought of a pool in the mountains never left our minds. James immediately did his research and, truth to be told, there really was a newly opened pool in the area.

Right there and then, a plan to go there was hatched.

<h5>Reunion and year-ender camp</h5>

If it wasn't for the lady who asked us about the pool before, we would never have known that a chill place in the middle of our weekend playground exists. Relaxation became nearer — and a lot cheaper — for locals, hikers, bikers and motocampers alike with the opening of Lumadnong Lantawan Swimming Pool.

My friends and I haven't been as active in hiking as it was before. In fact, it has become rare to see us hiking or camping as a complete group nowadays. Maybe it's because of the changes in our priorities after the pandemic, our different work schedules, or perhaps it just comes with age.

Still, I'm happy that we constantly keep in touch (virtually) and find small ways to meet on such occasions like this one.

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It was already past 4 pm when we met at 7/11 in Brgy. Quiot. From there,  we hailed motorcycles that will take us to Sitio Antuwanga and by the time we arrived, the sun has started setting. 

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We hiked through the familiar bike trail while enjoying the picturesque surroundings. Since there were lesser houses on this side of Cebu City, the hills looked more unspoiled. It even reminded me of Bohol's famous Chocolate Hills (though not as many).

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Along the way, most of us cannot help but make several stops to stare at the beautiful sunset and take some snaps. Who could blame us when we're faced with such colorful sky? 

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<h5>A newfound weekend destination</h5>

After 30 minutes, we finally reached the famed pool on top of the mountain. 

Lumadnong Lantawan Swimming Pool is maintained by the lumads of Tribu Alimaong. For 170 pesos (Php 100 campsite fee + Php 70 pool fee), you can dip in the relaxing water overlooking the city lights.

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<h5>Fun-filled night</h5>

After preparing our dinner, my friends and I had our socials by the pool. We talked about random things over a bottle of Mojitos — life and adulting, love and heartbreaks, friendships and misunderstandings, gossips, nonsensical stuff, and many more. We also played games and filled the night with laughter. 

Don't you think moments like these put the icing on the cake? While it's true that we go out to nature in order to disconnect (from the busy city life and all negativities), I've always believed that, by doing so, we seek to connect (with ourselves and the people that matter).

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<h5>Chasing sunrise</h5>

Despite sleeping late the night before, we woke up early to see the sunrise. The patches of clouds on the sky did not tone down the allure of the view. 

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And while our drone pilots @thestrollingmind and @iamcjestrada made sure to capture the sceneries, I was cooking breakfast.

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Our camping ended with a Tiktok number which was taken for the nth time. The girls were excellent (of course). The boys were hilarious (and cute). 

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<h5>Backpacked ponderings</h5>

We took a different trail on the way down — a slightly steep descending pathway devoid of shade. Then, a sudden surge of curiousity came to me as I watched my friends from afar. How much further will these people evolve — physically, mentally, professionally, financially, and such? Where will the sands of time bring us? Will we still be part of each other's next big trip? 

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As I pondered, I can't help but smile. There really is beauty in not knowing the answers. And I'm excited for the surprises that await all of us in this short lifetime. ☺️

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<sub>Hello! I'm Maria, a hopeless romantic who travels in pages and places. I hope to share my love for words and the world with you here in HIVE.</sub>

<sub>If you like this content, don't forget to follow, upvote, and leave a comment to show some love. You can also reblog if you want to. Let's connect! 🤍
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[//]:# (!pinmapple 10.30009 lat 123.84990 long  d3scr)