Our story began with an impulsive decision, a leap of faith that would forever change our lives. In 2014, my then-girlfriend and I found ourselves signing up for the down payment on a two-bedroom condominium unit at The Birchwood, a DMCI Homes development in Acacia Estates. We had not even discussed it beforehand, nor were we actively seeking a place of our own. Yet, after a colleague’s enthusiastic tour of their Cedar Crest property, we were smitten by the idea of a thoughtfully designed community with every amenity imaginable.
Phot by Michael M. Barnuevo
Despite my initial preference for a house and lot, my girlfriend’s determination and practicality won me over. She had her heart set on a ground-floor unit, away from the hustle and bustle of the amenities, prioritizing easy access and tranquility. With her decisive nudge, we took the plunge, securing the last available two-bedroom unit on the ground floor.
Our excitement grew as we visited Acacia Estates. Behind the imposing Acacia logo along Levi Mariano Highway, we discovered meticulously manicured landscapes, a vibrant community atmosphere, and thoughtfully designed enclaves. The Birchwood, with its elegant architecture blending modern aesthetics with nature’s embrace, as depicted in the enticing renderings during the selling stage, resonated deeply with us. This was despite the construction site being a dusty canvas of concrete and steel at the time.
The vision of a secure and nurturing environment to build our family became so alluring that we took that leap of faith on March 22, 2014. We signed the papers and made the down payment, a decision made with both excitement and trepidation as I was soon to leave for Qatar for work. Yet, we were confident that this investment would lay the foundation for our future together.
Months turned into years, filled with anticipation and significant life events. In August 2014, we exchanged vows, our dreams of a family life in Acacia Estates becoming more intertwined with our personal journey.
On May 25, 2016, we revisited the construction site, witnessing the Calathea building, our future home, halfway to its completion. Each photograph taken was a testament to our growing dreams and the future we were building together.
On January 7, 2018, the day finally arrived to view our unit. Stepping into the Calathea, sunlight streaming through the windows, we felt an overwhelming sense of possibility. This blank canvas was ours to fill with love, laughter, and the warmth of family.
On August 1, 2018, our home loan was approved, and we received the keys to our Birchwood abode. It was a day of immense pride and joy, the culmination of years of planning and dreaming. Our first investment as a married couple, our home in The Birchwood, was a testament to our shared commitment to a brighter future.
Moving in was a labor of love. We carefully selected each piece of furniture, adorned the walls with cherished memories, and filled the kitchen with the aromas of home-cooked meals. Our house transformed into a home, a sanctuary where our dreams could take flight.
We even embraced a few superstitious beliefs to enrich and protect our new life as a family. We brought in a sack of rice, placed cups of salt in the corners of our unit, and scattered cotton balls to ward off any potential difficulties. We also invested in big-ticket items that would ensure our comfort and peace of mind in the long run. It might have seemed extravagant at the time, but achieving a fully-furnished unit in August and September of 2018 made perfect sense, ensuring we had all the comforts we could think of to ease our transition into family life.
Little did we know then that our decision to invest in The Birchwood would prove to be even more significant during the unprecedented challenges brought on by the pandemic. The community’s commitment to safety and well-being, the open spaces that allowed for social distancing, and the unwavering support from our neighbors made all the difference. The Birchwood became our refuge, a sanctuary where we felt safe and connected, even as the world outside faced uncertainty.
The Birchwood’s commitment to building a strong community quickly became evident. Our neighbors transformed into friends, and impromptu gatherings filled our weekends with joy and laughter. The community events, from festive celebrations to educational workshops, enriched our lives and fostered lasting connections. The Birchwood had become more than just a place to live; it was a place where we truly belonged.
Recently, our family grew to include a new member – a lovable five-month-old corgi named Chester. The Birchwood’s pet-friendly environment, with designated pet parks and walking areas, has made our furry friend feel right at home. We have found that the community’s consideration for pets has not only enhanced our quality of life but has also fostered connections with other pet owners, further enriching our experience here.
Beyond the beautiful surroundings, amenities, and sense of community, The Birchwood also boasts unparalleled convenience. With Savemore Supermarket just a stone’s throw away, we have everything we need right at our doorstep. The convenience of having a supermarket within walking distance cannot be overstated. From fresh produce to everyday essentials, we can easily find everything we need without venturing far from home. Moreover, the presence of popular establishments like Potato Corner, Turks, pet shops, and ramen shops within Acacia Town Center adds to the overall convenience and vibrancy of the community.
Whether it is a quick grocery run, a late-night craving, or a forgotten household item, we can easily find it without leaving the comfort of our neighborhood. This convenience has been a game-changer, especially during the pandemic, when minimizing trips outside became a priority. It is a testament to DMCI Homes’ commitment to not only building homes but also creating self-sufficient communities that cater to every aspect of our lives.
The accessibility of Acacia Estates is further enhanced by the presence of three gates, each offering convenient access to different major roads surrounding the community. Whether we are heading to work, running errands, or exploring the city, we have multiple options to choose from, ensuring that we are never far from where we need to be.
The Birchwood offered us the peace of mind that comes with living in a DMCI Homes community. The sturdy structures, 24/7 security, and well-maintained facilities ensured that our family, including our furry companion, was safe and secure. This allowed us to focus on what truly mattered: building a strong family unit and nurturing meaningful relationships within our community.
Living in The Birchwood has not only helped us build a family life but also shaped our future. We have discovered hidden talents, pursued our passions, and built a network of lifelong friends. Our corgi, Chester, has thrived in this welcoming environment, and we have found joy in connecting with other pet lovers in the community.
We are eternally grateful for the impulsive decision we made to invest in our Birchwood home. It has not only provided us with a beautiful place to live but also with the foundation to build a happy, healthy, and fulfilling life together. The Birchwood, a testament to DMCI Homes’ commitment to building together and shaping tomorrow, has truly become our haven, a place where dreams take flight, families thrive, and even our furry friends find a place to call home. It is a place where convenience, security, and a sense of community seamlessly blend to create an unparalleled living experience.
About the author:
I am a seasoned Training Consultant with several years of experience working as an expatriate. I also run a successful business, driven by a passion for innovation and growth. With a background in formal photography training, I enjoy capturing moments through my lens. My personal pursuits also include traveling, particularly to Japan for its rich cultural heritage, and collecting vinyl records for their unique sonic qualities. My wife and I, along with our corgi Chester, have been proud residents of The Birchwood in Acacia Estates since August 2018.
