Some 5 Things to be Thankful for 2017 Today

For many people, it's been a rough 12 months with the hits coming from all sides. Despite this, we're finally at the homestretch with just three weeks left before we bid adieu to 2017.

Instead of looking back in anger, let's list down what we're thankful for this year. OK, I'll go first.

1. Uber and Grab

There may have been a few glitches here and there - drivers who canceled, "pool mates" who were not on your route, drivers tuned into baduy radio stations - but as a whole, these transport network companies (TNCs) were a godsend.

Summit Media

My favorite part of the whole transaction is not having to do the question and answer portion (Where are you headed? Can you add P50 to the fare?) that we've had to endure for years with choosy taxi drivers.

2. Misses Universe in the Philippines

And so all great things come to an end. This has been magical. Thank you for your warm welcomes and hospitality everywhere we went. I will always treasure this experience. Although I got to do and see so much, I still know there is so much that I haven’t discovered yet. I wish I could’ve given everyone a warm hug (or a selfie😋) but please know I sincerely appreciate every smile, wave, and gift. A special thank you to @frontrowphoff and @tourism_phl for hosting us here in the Philippines 💙❤️💛 #frontrowuniverse #frontrow #itsmorefuninthephilippines #missuniverse

A post shared by Demi-Leigh | Miss Universe (@demileighnp) on Dec 9, 2017 at 7:33pm PST

The fact that reigning Miss Universe Demi-Leigh Nel-Peters and several Miss Universe participants were recently here could turn into a big boost for Philippine tourism. The ladies gamely posed for photos at Jollibee, and preened in front of national landmarks from Batanes to Manila. If I were a foreigner, I'd actually be interested to come over and check out what all the fuss is about.

3. Online shopping

The Jakarta Post

Now that e-commerce is no longer in its infancy stage, shopping online has become a joy rather than a chore. Lazada is a favorite and their "no delivery charge" is a big draw. This year alone, I've purchased a sleeping cot, an Ikea floor lamp, a handheld vacuum cleaner, kiddie plates and cutlery, and discounted fragrances (for the last, look for those branded "Authenticity Verified"). No more need to elbow you way through the crowds at the mall.

4. Eatigo

Diners who book tables at participating restaurants using this dining app are assured of discounts of at least 10% to as much as 50%, every day. The restaurants are only too glad to pass on heftier discounts during the slow hours like early in the day when they've just opened or mid-afternoon, usually from 2:30 to 4:30 p.m. I've used it several times at Ramen Nagi where the ramen is addictive but at P400 a bowl on average, kinda pricey. The discounts are real.

Google Play

Eatigo is available for iOS and Android users.

5. This weather we're having

Her.ie

The cool weather makes it feel like Christmas is approaching, and it is. The traffic snarls are bound to get worse as we draw closer to December 25 but at least you can look forward to cool weather tonight.