I’ve always enjoyed imagining the kind of spaces I’d like to live and work in, even if, for now, they only exist in thought. For me, an interior isn’t just design—it’s about feeling comfortable and peaceful, and seeing how the space you live in can change your everyday life. This new section, Spaces I Imagine, is where I’ll gather those visions. From cozy reading nooks … Continue reading Welcome to “Spaces I Imagine”
When you teach English online, those little stars beside your name matter more than most people realize. As a work-from-home mom juggling ESL tutoring and content writing, I’ve seen firsthand how one number can make a big difference. My RareJob rating hovers around 4.90 — solid on paper — but mixed in with those high scores are the dreaded ones and twos. They sting. They’re … Continue reading Why Poor Reviews Hurt ESL Tutors More Than You Think
I wish I knew the things I know now But then again, it might not be exciting I won’t laugh at my mistakes And cry over the unavoidable pain So I take it back It’s ok not to know Because the mystery is what will make you thrive through it all But sometimes, you just want to feel sure For somehow there’s peace in knowing … Continue reading I Wish I Knew The Things I Know Now
When I first started working from home, I thought I was saving a lot. There were no more early morning bus rides, no need to buy office clothes, and definitely no random coffee shop runs. Fast-forward a few months, and my electric bill was higher than usual, the internet upgrade was non-negotiable, and suddenly, our grocery budget seemed to vanish faster than the kids’ snacks. … Continue reading The Hidden Cost of Working From Home
These days, it feels like bad news is everywhere. One quick scroll through social media, and you’re hit with headlines about disasters, conflicts, and every crisis imaginable. As adults, we know how heavy that can feel. Now imagine kids—still figuring out how the world works—absorbing all that negativity. It’s no wonder many of them are falling into a habit called doomscrolling. If you haven’t heard … Continue reading How to Spot When Your Child Is Doomscrolling—and What to Do About It
I never liked the sound of the alarm. That’s why I felt so at peace when I could wake up automatically at exactly the time I wanted—yes, like clockwork! If I planned to wake up at 5 a.m., I’d open my eyes at 4:59 a.m.—seriously! I never understood how it happened. Maybe as you get older, your body just makes you do certain things, and … Continue reading Morning Musings
“Why am I so nervous? They’re just students.” I whispered that to myself before logging into my first online ESL class two years ago. My hands were clammy, my heart was racing, and for a second, I considered pretending my internet went down. If you’ve been there, trust me—you’re not alone. Teaching English to foreign learners sounds exciting, but the reality can feel intimidating at … Continue reading Confident Teaching: Simple Ways to Beat Nervousness in ESL Classes
Disclaimer: The information in this article is based on publicly available data and online research as of 2025. ISP performance may vary depending on your exact location, network traffic, and other factors. Always confirm details with your chosen provider before subscribing. If you work from home like me, you probably know the stress of a shaky internet connection. One minute you’re teaching a lively ESL … Continue reading Which ISP Rules in Your Area? The Best Internet Providers by Region in the Philippines
When I applied for my first ESL job, the part that scared me the most wasn’t the interview—it was the demo lesson. You know, that short class where you’re supposed to impress a hiring manager who’s pretending to be a student? Yep, that one. My hands were sweating so much, I was afraid the flashcards would stick to my fingers. If you’ve ever been there, … Continue reading How to Ace Your ESL Demo Lesson and Land the Job
From My Corner of the Couch 