MyJourneyin50States: I made it to CNN. I made it to Georgia

To visit the CNN headquarters was on my bucket list.

I started as a CNN iReporter in August 2010 back in the Philippines. It gave me a taste of a journalism career that was once another dream career. Fortunately, I was given great exposure on CNN, with numerous stories vetted - some were used on TV. Two photos were used in November 2010 for the “CNN Asia” commercial, which lasted for a month.

In May 2013, I was honored to receive the “CNN iReport Spirit Award” to recognize my hard work and sense of collaboration. Being one of the recipients of this award, it had proven my profound interest in storytelling. It helped me gain more confidence and enhanced my skills in writing and photography. Also, it developed my enthusiasm to travel and see more places.

My visit to CNN headquarters with my daughter, Mary, in February 2015 was another fulfilled dream, and another item checked off on my bucket list. The CNN tour that gave me a photo opportunity to be a news anchor for few minutes was the highlight of our visit. I wish it was for real.

On another occasion, I went to Savannah in November 2014 with my adopted son, Ryan. It was a side trip to visit his family in Wisconsin on Thanksgiving.

We walked along the historic district to see those beautiful old houses and the famous Forsyth Park. Those houses are adorable. Just like other people, Savannah is on my list of favorite small towns. This quaint town has the charm that you wouldn’t mind visiting back.

Another favorite place in Georgia is Tybee Island. My encounter with the Tybee lighthouse was a pleasant surprise. We climbed the 178 steps to the top. That was exhausting, but I survived! The view of the island from the deck was peaceful and gorgeous.

After seeing this lighthouse, I added another item on my bucket list - that is - to visit lighthouses in America. I knew then that it would be interesting to do.

We also walked along the shore while picking up shells. I wrapped up our trip by driving back to our hotel. I missed driving, and this experience had reconnected me to one of the things I love to do - driving.

There are lots of things to do and a lot more places to see in Georgia. I know for sure that this was one of the best memories I have of Georgia.

I was a real CNN iReporter for years. And on this trip, I became a CNN news anchor for few minutes!