A Catch-Up with My Work Mom- More than a Boss, Forever A Family 👯‍♀️💖

It’s a brand-new day, everyone! I hope you’re all doing well.

I’m back and happy to share a quick catch-up with my former boss, whom I call my mother. This friendship—the bond I never expected—means so much to me, and I’m truly grateful we share something this special.

Before the start of the holidays, we decided to have a quick catch-up. Just like the old days, we talked about anything under the sun—even personal matters, because we’re both open with each other. That evening, we finally met. She chose the place for dinner, called Apartment 1B in Arca near BGC. It’s also where she does her yoga, so it was the perfect spot for us to meet.

It was a lovely place—peaceful and quiet, with not too many people around, yet it still offered a variety of restaurants and cafés to choose from.

I waited for Mother Belay outside the restaurant because it was still too early for her reservation, and I didn’t want to go in just yet. She kept me updated while she was finishing her yoga session. When she was finally done, she shouted my name, and we hugged each other before heading inside together.

Once we were inside, we immediately started chatting about whatever came to mind. Even after we got our seats, the conversation never stopped. After a few minutes, we decided what to order—just a salad, pasta, and dessert, which would be served later after the main course.

While waiting for the food to be served, we kept chatting and had already covered so many topics. There were moments of laughter, whispers, and all the little crazy things that always happen when we’re together. We truly enjoyed the food—it was delicious. I ate so slowly that we ended up having an even longer conversation before finally moving on to dessert.

Then, just as we were almost done, she gave me a gift. I was so touched and surprised that I almost cried when she handed it to me. I had been thinking about what gift I should give her, but I wasn’t able to buy one—and I never expected that she would be the one with a gift for me.

I was feeling emotional, and she told me to open the gift already. I was hesitant because I wanted to save the surprise and open it when I got home, but she insisted. So I opened it right then and there—and I was so happy to see that she had given me an RFID passport holder. I hugged her tightly and thanked her over and over for such a thoughtful gift.

That night was as lovely as ever, and we always have so much fun whenever we catch up—whether it’s over dinner or drinks, just like we used to. I feel happy and lucky that we still get to share moments like this even though she’s no longer my boss. Instead, we’ve built an even deeper relationship, and for that, I am truly thankful.

All photos are mine.
Edited using Canva.