I am currently eating Php17 maruya (fried banana fritters in pancake form) here at The Raffles Makati, the venue for the Readers and Writers Festival 2017. I am waiting for Abbey Sy to begin her Student of Life Workshop here at the Ballroom Two. I am washing it down with convenience store americano and a lot of optimism. I may not have enough cash to buy all the books I want (I am thriving on ebooks, which are more affordable), but I can afford to have a wonderful time at an event hosted by one of my favorite authors and artists. I may be eating maruya today, but I have no shame in devouring it with gusto in a fancy hotel ballroom. I am excited for the last day of this year's festival. Again, I love being surrounded by fellow bibliophiles. I am definitely inspired by the energy here, and I look forward to next year's festival.