(You have to read the previous post in order to appreciate this--sequel nga kasi!)
After experiencing cramps in my hands and feet for driving 3 and a half hours, we finally made it to the very private resort of Buboy (referred to as Leandrino in my previous posts) at 8:30 PM. We headed straight to the rest room and while we were there, I said to Ate Ella that we'll just "Eat and Run". I was too tired to even comb my hair, the thought of asking Mimi where I could lie down and rest did cross my feeble mind.
But when I saw the smiling face of Catsut (Leoncio's nickname), all the pains in my body disappeared! I merrily kissed him and congratulated him on his Silver Wedding Anniversary. He then introduced me to his charming wife Myrna who was too happy to see some of her husband's former classmates. Also present were his Notre Dame High School buddies: Paeng Sunga, the honorable Congressman Doy Pingoy and surprise of all surprises--Nilo! (He didn't know I was coming and I had no idea he already came back from Vietnam)
Nilo and I embraced each other, much to the awe and wonder of my favorite son, Gio. I then introduced him, Eia, and Ate Ella to the crowd. After an exchange of hand shakes, hugs and kisses, we made our way to the buffet table. In between my eating of fresh lumpia, I told Catsut "Kung hindi lang talaga dahil sa yo, hindi ako magtitiis na magdrive ng 3 1/2 hours para pumunta dito. Ikaw lang talaga ang dahilan at nandito ako ngayon."
Buboy then voiced out "Salamat naman Nora sa pagiging truthful mo". With that, the conversation was directed to our elementary grades, when Buboy used to bully me. I assured everybody that although I hated him for six years, he already managed to soften my heart when he visited me at the Coca-Cola Warehouse and asked for forgiveness. Then when I left Coke and took MS IE in CRC, he also visited me there and we indulged ourselves with Red Ribbon's Chocolate Marshmallow cake (cried for days when this was phased out a year later). I remembered we ordered 2 slices but during that time, there was no available cake for slicing. Buboy ended up buying one whole cake and we ate 4 slices at Red Ribbon, the rest I finished in 3 days. When I opened my first shop along Zapote-Alabang Road, Buboy would drop by every time he's in the area. He swore that his mechanic for his sports car in Las Pinas City was the best so he really didn't mind that he had to drive all the way from Antipolo to our place. We would just eat and laugh at each other's life stories whenever we see each other.
So there. For the benefit of everybody concerned, I am officially declaring that what happened between Buboy and me in the past is IN THE PAST. What compelled him to say those nasty things about me in grade school is no longer relevant. I am now happy and relieved that we can talk about the past with humor and laughter.
Going back to our main story, it was a jolly recollection of our elementary experiences--how Leoncio became my constant dance partner from Grade 1 to 6, our crushes, puppy loves and first loves. Then Lorimer came with his son. He was introduced to everybody and when it was my turn to shake hands with him, he was asked if he still remembered me and he answered "How can I forget?" I smiled to myself, thinking how he, his friend Carlito and me posed for several pictures in a photo studio before graduation. It happened 36 years ago and yet I could still remember very vividly that after our photo shoot, they invited me for a light snacks where I honestly admitted (while sipping my 8-oz. bottle of Coke) that my heart belonged to Bert since Grade 3.
After dinner, we joined all the tables (the Elementary Group and the High School Group) and started the Videoke. Of course, our host Buboy initiated the singing spree, followed by Mimi and Nilo. I'm glad I brought Gio with me who belted out "Hero" despite his sore throat (he wanted to sing 'Better Days' but it wasn't included in the list). Lorimer's son also sang and it's no surprise that he had the voice quality of a true artist. He is, after all, a kin of Cesar Banares--the lead male singer of the former ASIN band.
We were having so much fun that we couldn't leave to say goodbye. Nanay called at around midnight, asking me where we were. I told her we were just leaving. True. But then I was told that Buboy's father (our school principal) wanted to see me. I went back inside to say hi to him and he was teary-eyed (out of joy, I hope) when he saw me. He told me "I cannot believe you came here. I always ask Buboy why we don't have visitors from Marbel. Remember the song 'tayo na, sa Antipolo, at doon, maligo tayo?' I can never forget you. You and Buboy always fight". I could have talked with him longer but hey, I have 2 children with me who were dying to get home.
After the long goodbyes and deliberations who will ride in who's car, we left Antipolo with Elsa and Tho (they went with Nilo in his car in going to the resort). We dropped them off at Elsa's office in Ortigas Complex where she left her car. Genevieve, Rod and Kring went with them, since they were going in the same direction. Malou's apartment was our last stop before we finally headed for home. I won't narrate anymore how we went around in circles trying to find Boni Ave. that would end in EDSA. Bottom line, we reached Philamlife Village safe and sound. At 2 in the morning.
Now sing with me:
"Ain't no mountain high enough,
Ain't no valley low enough
Ain't no river wild enough
To keep me from my friends."
Monday, July 30, 2007
Sunday, July 29, 2007
Ain't No Mountain High Enough
Nope. This post is not about Diana Ross. But I did think about her and this song when I drove for 3 and a half hours last Friday, July 27, 2007 with my 2 kids in tow, traversing chaotic traffic and rocky mountains just to see Leoncio, my elementary dance partner whom I haven't seen in 36 years!
When Buboy called last Monday inviting me for our mini-reunion in honor of Leoncio and his wife Myrna, I didn't think twice to say yes although my son was at that moment, terribly sick. Leoncio and his family came all the way from the States to celebrate the couple's Silver Wedding Anniversary in our hometown Marbel, South Cotabato (now known as Koronadal City). They were leaving Saturday so Friday night was our last chance to have a get-together.
Later during the week I suggested to Mimi that we meet at SM Megamall, being the center place for everybody. But since Leoncio's family was staying at Buboy's resort in Antipolo, Buboy was generous enough to invite all the batch mates living in Metro Manila to have dinner at Guillean's Place (you may want to check it out at http://www.guilleansplace.com/). Incidentally, Buboy is actually Leandrino--my ever loyal bully from Grade 1 to grade 6. How we became civil with each other will require a completely different post (maybe I'll write a sequel to this post--on second thought, I definitely will!)
Anyway, I knew it would be a hell of a drive from Las Pinas City to Antipolo, stopping over at Robinsons Place Pioneer Ave. to pick up Malou and then picking up Genevieve along the way. It was already raining at around 5 PM when we left home. I anticipated the ordeal that I was about to hurdle so I took 1 Biogesic tablet just to make sure I won't be dealing with one pestering problem--my migraine (which simultaneously arrives with my "visitor").
As expected, traffic was slow (it was Friday and raining). We were cruising along EDSA when I saw the Robinson's Pioneer Ave. signboard so I signalled to go right to pick up Malou at the entrance. All of a sudden, the engine died. I heard a deafening sound of horn at my back, then "BOOM!" I realized we were on an upward slope so I immediately pulled my brake shift. But I knew I already hit something when we slided back. I immediately called Malou to inform her of our unexpected predicament.
I was still talking with Malou when a man appeared beside my window so I had to go out and see the damage on his car. He was driving a white FX taxi. It was quite dark but I knew his front bumper was barely hit. I begged him with trembling voice: "Mama, pasensya na po. Maawa na kayo sa akin. Huminto po ang sasakyan ko, ayaw pa nga hong umandar. Patawarin nyo na po ako." These, I said while gently holding on to his arm.
He was stunned (probably out of pity for a lady in distress) so I went back inside the car. I stared at my mirror and saw him pulling back and then drove along. I thanked God after heaving a sigh of relief. I made several attempts to start the car but failed. I requested Ate Ella to pray the 'binding and casting' while I 'prayed over' the car so it would start. After what seemed to be eternity, I called Malou that we were already on our way to fetch her.
I was almost tempted to go back to Las Pinas after what happened but I thought of Leoncio--the reason for this trip. Then I thought of the mountains of Antipolo. It's risky to even bring the car up there, with my 2 kids at the back of the car. Then I thought of Diana Ross in the 70's: "Ain't no mountain high enough, ain't no valley low enough, ain't no river wild enough to keep me from you . . . " I smiled to myself and proceeded with extreme caution.
By God's divine intervention, Genevieve and her husband Rod and daughter Kring were travelling almost behind us when we passed by SM Megamall. We just stopped in front of Chow King at Robinson's Galleria and waited for them. It was almost 7 PM when the 8 of us finally settled inside the REVO.
If traffic along EDSA was slow, traffic along Ortigas was worse. I had absolutely no idea where we were going. Malou was the only person who's been at Buboy's resort. But since she was there only once, we had to stop in Antipolo to call Mimi/Elsa for directions. Malou told me that we will be passing through a rough road before reaching the resort but I didn't anticipate it was that rough. I prayed hard that everything will be alright and I praise and thank God that it did.
We miraculously made it to the reunion on the same day, at exactly 8:30 PM. Seeing Leoncio again after 36 years (and of course my other friends from Marbel whom I haven't seen for so long) was after all, worth the trip.
When Buboy called last Monday inviting me for our mini-reunion in honor of Leoncio and his wife Myrna, I didn't think twice to say yes although my son was at that moment, terribly sick. Leoncio and his family came all the way from the States to celebrate the couple's Silver Wedding Anniversary in our hometown Marbel, South Cotabato (now known as Koronadal City). They were leaving Saturday so Friday night was our last chance to have a get-together.
Later during the week I suggested to Mimi that we meet at SM Megamall, being the center place for everybody. But since Leoncio's family was staying at Buboy's resort in Antipolo, Buboy was generous enough to invite all the batch mates living in Metro Manila to have dinner at Guillean's Place (you may want to check it out at http://www.guilleansplace.com/). Incidentally, Buboy is actually Leandrino--my ever loyal bully from Grade 1 to grade 6. How we became civil with each other will require a completely different post (maybe I'll write a sequel to this post--on second thought, I definitely will!)
Anyway, I knew it would be a hell of a drive from Las Pinas City to Antipolo, stopping over at Robinsons Place Pioneer Ave. to pick up Malou and then picking up Genevieve along the way. It was already raining at around 5 PM when we left home. I anticipated the ordeal that I was about to hurdle so I took 1 Biogesic tablet just to make sure I won't be dealing with one pestering problem--my migraine (which simultaneously arrives with my "visitor").
As expected, traffic was slow (it was Friday and raining). We were cruising along EDSA when I saw the Robinson's Pioneer Ave. signboard so I signalled to go right to pick up Malou at the entrance. All of a sudden, the engine died. I heard a deafening sound of horn at my back, then "BOOM!" I realized we were on an upward slope so I immediately pulled my brake shift. But I knew I already hit something when we slided back. I immediately called Malou to inform her of our unexpected predicament.
I was still talking with Malou when a man appeared beside my window so I had to go out and see the damage on his car. He was driving a white FX taxi. It was quite dark but I knew his front bumper was barely hit. I begged him with trembling voice: "Mama, pasensya na po. Maawa na kayo sa akin. Huminto po ang sasakyan ko, ayaw pa nga hong umandar. Patawarin nyo na po ako." These, I said while gently holding on to his arm.
He was stunned (probably out of pity for a lady in distress) so I went back inside the car. I stared at my mirror and saw him pulling back and then drove along. I thanked God after heaving a sigh of relief. I made several attempts to start the car but failed. I requested Ate Ella to pray the 'binding and casting' while I 'prayed over' the car so it would start. After what seemed to be eternity, I called Malou that we were already on our way to fetch her.
I was almost tempted to go back to Las Pinas after what happened but I thought of Leoncio--the reason for this trip. Then I thought of the mountains of Antipolo. It's risky to even bring the car up there, with my 2 kids at the back of the car. Then I thought of Diana Ross in the 70's: "Ain't no mountain high enough, ain't no valley low enough, ain't no river wild enough to keep me from you . . . " I smiled to myself and proceeded with extreme caution.
By God's divine intervention, Genevieve and her husband Rod and daughter Kring were travelling almost behind us when we passed by SM Megamall. We just stopped in front of Chow King at Robinson's Galleria and waited for them. It was almost 7 PM when the 8 of us finally settled inside the REVO.
If traffic along EDSA was slow, traffic along Ortigas was worse. I had absolutely no idea where we were going. Malou was the only person who's been at Buboy's resort. But since she was there only once, we had to stop in Antipolo to call Mimi/Elsa for directions. Malou told me that we will be passing through a rough road before reaching the resort but I didn't anticipate it was that rough. I prayed hard that everything will be alright and I praise and thank God that it did.
We miraculously made it to the reunion on the same day, at exactly 8:30 PM. Seeing Leoncio again after 36 years (and of course my other friends from Marbel whom I haven't seen for so long) was after all, worth the trip.
Sunday, July 22, 2007
Gildo: Servant of God
This morning was memorable for me and the whole family, most especially for my favorite son, Gio. You know why?
Nah--I didn't join the Milo Marathon with Gio although the idea did cross my mind (inspired by Jaymie & her 6-yr old son). I passed on the opportunity because of one noble reason: It was Gio's 3rd attempt to read the 1st Reading in the 9:15AM Children's Mass at Philamlife Church.
Gio was requested 2 weeks ago but we had to visit Leisure Farms for emergency reasons.
He was all set last week but was feverish Saturday, "lagnat laki" according to Dr. Baet. He totally refused to read the following day for fear that he might collapse while holding the gigantic Holy Bible (an alibi, really).
Yesterday, Gio woke up coughing but was able to play tennis with me 11-12 noon. Since today was the 3rd time that he was scheduled, I told my son last night: "Gio, if you wake up tomorrow with a fever or with a hoarse voice, I want you to go on and offer your sacrifice to the Lord. Not everybody is given the gift of public speaking. God gave you that gift to share with others. Tell the Devil to stay away from you."
At around 4AM, I was awakened by Gio's severe coughing and repeated blowing of nose. Oh no, not again--I told myself. I knew Gio would have wanted to back out, but Tatay and the rest of the family were all telling him not to be defeated by the Devil. And so, we were already in the church before 9AM.
During the Processional March, Gio proudly raised the Holy Bible (which he described as extremely heavy) and gently placed it on top of the alter. He then bowed meekly and proceeded to his assigned seat with serene face and prayerful hands.
While "Glory to God" was being sang, I glanced at his place and I couldn't stop the tears from flowing down my cheeks. I couldn't believe that I now have a son (from a broken marriage) who will serve the Lord. Then I saw Nanay beside me also wiping her tears. I remembered when Gio was born, I couldn't think of any name. Nanay browsed at the Baby Book and told me "Let's name him Gildo, which means Servant of God. I'll pray that he'll be a priest someday or if not, somebody who will serve in the church."
During this time, Tatay and Ate Ella were praying inside the Perpetual Adoration Chapel in supplication for Gio. They stayed there until Gio finished his reading which proceeded very well.
After the mass, Eia hugged her brother and told him "You're very good, Kuya!" I also hugged him and said "You're very good, Anak". I felt he was quite warm so when we got home, I took his temperature and he was indeed running a fever.
I had to leave before lunch for the airport to meet Nanay's friends from Marbel who brought us 1 box of langgonisa. On the way back, Ate Ella texted me that Gio's temperature is now 38.5 so I must buy additional Biogesic before going home. Gio's voice was unrecognizable when I arrived @1:30PM. Surprisingly, he had the appetite to eat again when he knew that the langgonisa from Marbel already arrived. We had fun eating together the langgonisa which we waited for a while to be cooked.
After our delicious meal, I asked Gio to take a nap but as usual, he refused. I dragged him to bed and hugged him so he could sleep. When he woke up, I told him we should go to a laboratory for his CBC. This was Dr. Baet's advice if his temperature will rise again. Of course, he didn't want to go. So I told him "Very well. Let's not go anymore. Maybe you already feel good about yourself. That means you'll go to school tomorrow. No need for the lab. test."
As I expected, Gio immediately dressed up and told me he didn't want to go to school tomorrow. The sad thing is, it was Sunday so all laboratory clinics were closed. We went to Christ the King General Hospital where I requested for CBC and X-ray. Unfortunately, they don't perform X-rays without a doctor's prescription. Well, that could wait for tomorrow when I bring Gio to Dr. Baet's clinic.
I have only written 2 posts for July and now, I have the time to write one because like any dutiful mother, I would stay awake all night to monitor my son's temperature and to give him his paracetamol and antibiotics. I have to take care of Gildo, an aspiring Servant of God.
Nah--I didn't join the Milo Marathon with Gio although the idea did cross my mind (inspired by Jaymie & her 6-yr old son). I passed on the opportunity because of one noble reason: It was Gio's 3rd attempt to read the 1st Reading in the 9:15AM Children's Mass at Philamlife Church.
Gio was requested 2 weeks ago but we had to visit Leisure Farms for emergency reasons.
He was all set last week but was feverish Saturday, "lagnat laki" according to Dr. Baet. He totally refused to read the following day for fear that he might collapse while holding the gigantic Holy Bible (an alibi, really).
Yesterday, Gio woke up coughing but was able to play tennis with me 11-12 noon. Since today was the 3rd time that he was scheduled, I told my son last night: "Gio, if you wake up tomorrow with a fever or with a hoarse voice, I want you to go on and offer your sacrifice to the Lord. Not everybody is given the gift of public speaking. God gave you that gift to share with others. Tell the Devil to stay away from you."
At around 4AM, I was awakened by Gio's severe coughing and repeated blowing of nose. Oh no, not again--I told myself. I knew Gio would have wanted to back out, but Tatay and the rest of the family were all telling him not to be defeated by the Devil. And so, we were already in the church before 9AM.
During the Processional March, Gio proudly raised the Holy Bible (which he described as extremely heavy) and gently placed it on top of the alter. He then bowed meekly and proceeded to his assigned seat with serene face and prayerful hands.
While "Glory to God" was being sang, I glanced at his place and I couldn't stop the tears from flowing down my cheeks. I couldn't believe that I now have a son (from a broken marriage) who will serve the Lord. Then I saw Nanay beside me also wiping her tears. I remembered when Gio was born, I couldn't think of any name. Nanay browsed at the Baby Book and told me "Let's name him Gildo, which means Servant of God. I'll pray that he'll be a priest someday or if not, somebody who will serve in the church."
During this time, Tatay and Ate Ella were praying inside the Perpetual Adoration Chapel in supplication for Gio. They stayed there until Gio finished his reading which proceeded very well.
After the mass, Eia hugged her brother and told him "You're very good, Kuya!" I also hugged him and said "You're very good, Anak". I felt he was quite warm so when we got home, I took his temperature and he was indeed running a fever.
I had to leave before lunch for the airport to meet Nanay's friends from Marbel who brought us 1 box of langgonisa. On the way back, Ate Ella texted me that Gio's temperature is now 38.5 so I must buy additional Biogesic before going home. Gio's voice was unrecognizable when I arrived @1:30PM. Surprisingly, he had the appetite to eat again when he knew that the langgonisa from Marbel already arrived. We had fun eating together the langgonisa which we waited for a while to be cooked.
After our delicious meal, I asked Gio to take a nap but as usual, he refused. I dragged him to bed and hugged him so he could sleep. When he woke up, I told him we should go to a laboratory for his CBC. This was Dr. Baet's advice if his temperature will rise again. Of course, he didn't want to go. So I told him "Very well. Let's not go anymore. Maybe you already feel good about yourself. That means you'll go to school tomorrow. No need for the lab. test."
As I expected, Gio immediately dressed up and told me he didn't want to go to school tomorrow. The sad thing is, it was Sunday so all laboratory clinics were closed. We went to Christ the King General Hospital where I requested for CBC and X-ray. Unfortunately, they don't perform X-rays without a doctor's prescription. Well, that could wait for tomorrow when I bring Gio to Dr. Baet's clinic.
I have only written 2 posts for July and now, I have the time to write one because like any dutiful mother, I would stay awake all night to monitor my son's temperature and to give him his paracetamol and antibiotics. I have to take care of Gildo, an aspiring Servant of God.
Tuesday, July 17, 2007
Jaymie's Passion
Ever since I fantasized to run 5k on my 50th birthday, Jaymie has been my constant inspiration and mentor (via her blog and mine). While I run for me to enjoy tennis, Jaymie runs to enjoy herself. Below is an e-mail interview with this remarkable woman who is simply passionate with running. Introducing Jaymie, the bull runner.
1. You're 31. Right? How tall are you and how much do you weigh?
Yes, 31. I'm 5'5" tall. And, my weight on good days is 112 lbs. (that's like after a 10k race) and on bad days (like after an entire weekend of dining out) goes up to 116.
2. Aren't you underweight based on normal standards? Because in my case, my ideal weight is 99-122 lbs. for my height of almost 5'2". My desirable body weight is 110 lbs. which is actually my weight when I wake up in the morning but then shoots up to 116 lbs. before I go to sleep at night!
I don't really follow weight charts. I just base my goal weight on what I think I'll be comfortable at. I still have a few areas to work on, most especially my tummy after having two kids, so after losing a bit of weight through running I know I should focus more on toning up. I'll be happy to lose just a couple of pounds more but I don't obsess about it as much as I used to.
3. Do you follow a strict physical fitness program? What is a typical week for you?
Not rigid really. I run 4x a week. It's not like I pressure myself to do it. I just want to. If I don't, I'll feel awful. I'm planning on taking up either yoga or Pilate's for toning and strengthening but I still can't figure out how I'm going to squeeze it into my tight schedule. I guess that's why running works for me. It's very convenient and it's not very time consuming yet it yields quick results.
4. You call running 4x a week not pressuring yourself? You must be kidding me!!! I couldn't even run 1-2x a week. Where do you get the drive and the stamina?
That's truly not pressuring myself, Nora. I don't need to force myself to wake up at 4:30AM to run nor do I dread those 4 running days. I look forward to them and most of the time get excited about Saturdays when I know it's a long run with my coach and Annie. I still can't understand it when people tell me "Ang tiyaga mo naman" or "Ang sipag mo naman to exercise" because like I told you, I run because I just love it.
5. How about diet? Do you follow a specific diet? Kindly describe.
I don't eat rice. Beef and pork just occasionally. I love oatmeal, orange juice, mangoes, peanut butter and whole wheat bread. Unfortunately, I have a sweet tooth and I love junk food too so I'm still struggling with that part. The good thing with running is that it gave me a lot of freedom with food. I used to practically starve myself and still not get any results. When I started running, I found that I could eat more and pay less attention to the numbers on the scale.
6. Why are you not eating rice? Isn't that unhealthy because our body needs carbohydrates to give us energy? How can you still run 4x a week without carbo? This revelation really drives me crazy. I can't figure it out where you get your untiring energy.
I get my carbo from whole wheat bread, oatmeal, pasta, pizza. Before a race, I can gorge on pad thai or yellow cab pizza or tuna pasta like anything.
7. How long have you been running? When do you run and for how long?
I 'm still a newbie. I started in Dec. 2006. But ever since I did I've been very consistent and religious with my training. I run Tue, Thur, Sat, Sun. Tue and Thur usually on a treadmill at home for 45 minutes to 1 hour unless I have the time to drive myself to Alabang for a road run. Saturday long run of around 12k up with my Coach and Annie at 5:30AM. Sunday solo run in Alabang for over an hour.
That's simply amazing! You only started last December but you already managed to finish 6th in the 10k Run for P.E.A.C.E. last June. I don't think your achievement will qualify you as a newbie. You already made it to the top 10!
8. What were your physical activities in elementary, high school, college, and before you started running outdoors?
Hahaha practically nothing. That's why my family and friends are so surprised that I am so obsessed with running. Well, I was always going to the gym. I'd stop for a few years then go back again depending on how busy my life got at that point. I tried taekwondo and badminton but never fell in love with those as I have with running.
9. So you're telling me you don't have any other sports?
None, Nada, Zilch. I'd love to try duathlon or triathlon, but maybe when my 2-year old daughter is a little older.
10. I can't remember anymore who said "to explain the pleasure of running to someone who has never ran is like describing the colors red, green, and yellow to a blind person". Let's shed some light on this. I know you're a certified RUNAHOLIC. Will you please elaborate why you just love running?
Oooh, I completely agree with that statement so you must know how difficult it must be for me to find the words to describe my passion for running. Ack, how can I describe the feeling I get during a good run? It is simply bliss, euphoria, victory, and genuine happiness rolled into one! When I run, the world is literally at my feet and all for the taking. I feel like I have complete power not just over the course I'm going to take on that run but over everything else in my life. The stresses of the day just melt away. I feel fitter, healthier and stronger. I feel a sense of achievement when I run faster or longer. I pay more attention to the little things--like the wind blowing on my face, the sound of my shoe hitting the pavement, the sun rising--so it allows me to see more beauty in life too. How can one hour of running in a day make such a significant difference in one's life? I don't really know. It just does.
Now it's my turn to agree with you. Very well said. Bravo!!!
11. What is your advice for beginning runners?
Start gradually. Even it you want to go faster or farther and you think your body can cope with it, don't push it. That's probably the quickest way towards getting an injury. (That's what happened to me) Read, research, ask around and inform yourself about the proper way to start running before you begin.
Or they could just visit your blog: http://www.thebullrunner.com/ from time to time for your very useful running tips. That's what I do.
12. What is your ultimate goal in running?
To run until I am old and wrinkled. And also to run the New York marathon before I get old and wrinkled.
If only I could turn back the hands of time . . . too late to wish that now because I am now old and wrinkled hah hah hah.
13. Final question: I read before that a very old man (80, I think) finished a 42k Milo Marathon in Batangas. Do you think you'll still be running through 60 and beyond?
I certainly hope so!
There you are, friends. I hope after reading this interview you'll call, e-mail or text me to signify your intention of running with me 5k next year on my golden birthday celebration (tentatively set on June 7, 2008). As I've said before, proceeds of this run will benefit the DSAPI (Down Syndrome Assn. of the Phils., Inc.). Run with me and help my daughter Eia and the other children with Down Syndrome.
Thanks again, Jaymie! While I was about to give up this morning I just thought about you and I was energized to run some more. You, truly, are an inspiration to me. My only regret is that I could never run with you because you're already a 42k runner (you're running 42k in the upcoming Milo Marathon, right?) while I am still struggling to run 3k. How about a game of tennis?
1. You're 31. Right? How tall are you and how much do you weigh?
Yes, 31. I'm 5'5" tall. And, my weight on good days is 112 lbs. (that's like after a 10k race) and on bad days (like after an entire weekend of dining out) goes up to 116.
2. Aren't you underweight based on normal standards? Because in my case, my ideal weight is 99-122 lbs. for my height of almost 5'2". My desirable body weight is 110 lbs. which is actually my weight when I wake up in the morning but then shoots up to 116 lbs. before I go to sleep at night!
I don't really follow weight charts. I just base my goal weight on what I think I'll be comfortable at. I still have a few areas to work on, most especially my tummy after having two kids, so after losing a bit of weight through running I know I should focus more on toning up. I'll be happy to lose just a couple of pounds more but I don't obsess about it as much as I used to.
3. Do you follow a strict physical fitness program? What is a typical week for you?
Not rigid really. I run 4x a week. It's not like I pressure myself to do it. I just want to. If I don't, I'll feel awful. I'm planning on taking up either yoga or Pilate's for toning and strengthening but I still can't figure out how I'm going to squeeze it into my tight schedule. I guess that's why running works for me. It's very convenient and it's not very time consuming yet it yields quick results.
4. You call running 4x a week not pressuring yourself? You must be kidding me!!! I couldn't even run 1-2x a week. Where do you get the drive and the stamina?
That's truly not pressuring myself, Nora. I don't need to force myself to wake up at 4:30AM to run nor do I dread those 4 running days. I look forward to them and most of the time get excited about Saturdays when I know it's a long run with my coach and Annie. I still can't understand it when people tell me "Ang tiyaga mo naman" or "Ang sipag mo naman to exercise" because like I told you, I run because I just love it.
5. How about diet? Do you follow a specific diet? Kindly describe.
I don't eat rice. Beef and pork just occasionally. I love oatmeal, orange juice, mangoes, peanut butter and whole wheat bread. Unfortunately, I have a sweet tooth and I love junk food too so I'm still struggling with that part. The good thing with running is that it gave me a lot of freedom with food. I used to practically starve myself and still not get any results. When I started running, I found that I could eat more and pay less attention to the numbers on the scale.
6. Why are you not eating rice? Isn't that unhealthy because our body needs carbohydrates to give us energy? How can you still run 4x a week without carbo? This revelation really drives me crazy. I can't figure it out where you get your untiring energy.
I get my carbo from whole wheat bread, oatmeal, pasta, pizza. Before a race, I can gorge on pad thai or yellow cab pizza or tuna pasta like anything.
7. How long have you been running? When do you run and for how long?
I 'm still a newbie. I started in Dec. 2006. But ever since I did I've been very consistent and religious with my training. I run Tue, Thur, Sat, Sun. Tue and Thur usually on a treadmill at home for 45 minutes to 1 hour unless I have the time to drive myself to Alabang for a road run. Saturday long run of around 12k up with my Coach and Annie at 5:30AM. Sunday solo run in Alabang for over an hour.
That's simply amazing! You only started last December but you already managed to finish 6th in the 10k Run for P.E.A.C.E. last June. I don't think your achievement will qualify you as a newbie. You already made it to the top 10!
8. What were your physical activities in elementary, high school, college, and before you started running outdoors?
Hahaha practically nothing. That's why my family and friends are so surprised that I am so obsessed with running. Well, I was always going to the gym. I'd stop for a few years then go back again depending on how busy my life got at that point. I tried taekwondo and badminton but never fell in love with those as I have with running.
9. So you're telling me you don't have any other sports?
None, Nada, Zilch. I'd love to try duathlon or triathlon, but maybe when my 2-year old daughter is a little older.
10. I can't remember anymore who said "to explain the pleasure of running to someone who has never ran is like describing the colors red, green, and yellow to a blind person". Let's shed some light on this. I know you're a certified RUNAHOLIC. Will you please elaborate why you just love running?
Oooh, I completely agree with that statement so you must know how difficult it must be for me to find the words to describe my passion for running. Ack, how can I describe the feeling I get during a good run? It is simply bliss, euphoria, victory, and genuine happiness rolled into one! When I run, the world is literally at my feet and all for the taking. I feel like I have complete power not just over the course I'm going to take on that run but over everything else in my life. The stresses of the day just melt away. I feel fitter, healthier and stronger. I feel a sense of achievement when I run faster or longer. I pay more attention to the little things--like the wind blowing on my face, the sound of my shoe hitting the pavement, the sun rising--so it allows me to see more beauty in life too. How can one hour of running in a day make such a significant difference in one's life? I don't really know. It just does.
Now it's my turn to agree with you. Very well said. Bravo!!!
11. What is your advice for beginning runners?
Start gradually. Even it you want to go faster or farther and you think your body can cope with it, don't push it. That's probably the quickest way towards getting an injury. (That's what happened to me) Read, research, ask around and inform yourself about the proper way to start running before you begin.
Or they could just visit your blog: http://www.thebullrunner.com/ from time to time for your very useful running tips. That's what I do.
12. What is your ultimate goal in running?
To run until I am old and wrinkled. And also to run the New York marathon before I get old and wrinkled.
If only I could turn back the hands of time . . . too late to wish that now because I am now old and wrinkled hah hah hah.
13. Final question: I read before that a very old man (80, I think) finished a 42k Milo Marathon in Batangas. Do you think you'll still be running through 60 and beyond?
I certainly hope so!
There you are, friends. I hope after reading this interview you'll call, e-mail or text me to signify your intention of running with me 5k next year on my golden birthday celebration (tentatively set on June 7, 2008). As I've said before, proceeds of this run will benefit the DSAPI (Down Syndrome Assn. of the Phils., Inc.). Run with me and help my daughter Eia and the other children with Down Syndrome.
Thanks again, Jaymie! While I was about to give up this morning I just thought about you and I was energized to run some more. You, truly, are an inspiration to me. My only regret is that I could never run with you because you're already a 42k runner (you're running 42k in the upcoming Milo Marathon, right?) while I am still struggling to run 3k. How about a game of tennis?
Friday, July 6, 2007
Three's Company
I have always wanted to write a post about my two dedicated lawyers--Atty. Joy and Atty. Norie, who deserve all the recognition in the world for their untiring service to women like me (they never lost an Annulment case). Well, this is the best time 'coz I just spent 3 1/2 hours of fun and laughter with the two of them.
As I was driving home from Blue Wave where we celebrated our long-awaited victory (the granting of my Petition for Marriage Annulment), I was still grinning from ear to ear about how the three of us enjoy each other's company so much.
It's because we have so many things in common:
1) We are all single mothers although different in origin. Atty. Norie was once happily married to a loving husband but sadly lost his life to the Big C, while Atty. Joy was never married (lucky for her) but chose to take care of a cute baby girl. As for me, my marriage was just declared NULL AND VOID FROM THE BEGINNING (a million thanks to the both of them!).
2) We all vow to remain single for the rest of our lives although deep in my heart, I pray that Atty. Joy and Atty. Norie will find the man of their dreams (or the man of their dreams will find them). No one for me please!
3) We all love funny movies from "Shrek" to "Music and Lyrics". How we talked about the movies that we enjoyed watching was simply hilarious. Atty. Norie and I also love action movies but when we verbalized our intention of watching Die Hard 4, Atty. Joy jokingly told us that how could we possibly like Bruce Willis when he's already bald and old? Of course, Atty. Norie and I retaliated that Bruce Willis is still Bruce Willis, whether young or old. But we all agreed that Jude Law definitely has the sexiest, most expressive eyes there is. Better watch "the Holiday" if you happen to disagree with the three of us.
4) We are all diet watchers although Atty. Joy and I tease Atty. Norie for being paranoid about her calorie intake. I wanted to have dinner at Blue Bay Buffet but she preferred Kimono Ken for she only wanted to eat Kani Salad! After thorough deliberation,we asked for 3 orders of Kani Salad, 3 Miso Soup, 1 Chicken Teriyaki, 1 Tuna Sashimi and 1 Tempura of 5 pcs. prawns. Upon my prodding, Atty. Norie tried the Green Mango Shake while Atty. Joy remained loyal to the good old water. Of course, I didn't order any drink coz I don't leave home without 1 can of Light Coke in my Coleman.
5) We all want to be physically fit but unfortunately, because of their rat race schedule (being in demand and all) my two lawyer friends lack the time to devote even only 30 minutes a day for exercise. I shared some tips which you might also find helpful:
a) 30 minutes of brisk walking if you have time
b) 15 minutes of going up and down the stairs is equivalent to 30 mins. of walking
c) 15 minutes exercise upon waking up and 15 minutes before sleeping or
d) spread the 30 min. exercise into 3 10-minute exercises during the day. Maybe 10 mins. morning, 10 mins. mid day, 10 mins. afternoon
e) include hula hoop even for only 5 mins. to trim the belly
After we drank coffee at Cheesecake, etc. and indulged in Choco Dome (both of them ate 1/16 each while I had no choice but to finish the remaining 7/8 of the gigantic slice), Atty. Norie and Atty. Joy promised me that when we meet after 3 months, they will surprise me with their new belly-free figures.
I have absolutely no doubt that they will.
As I was driving home from Blue Wave where we celebrated our long-awaited victory (the granting of my Petition for Marriage Annulment), I was still grinning from ear to ear about how the three of us enjoy each other's company so much.
It's because we have so many things in common:
1) We are all single mothers although different in origin. Atty. Norie was once happily married to a loving husband but sadly lost his life to the Big C, while Atty. Joy was never married (lucky for her) but chose to take care of a cute baby girl. As for me, my marriage was just declared NULL AND VOID FROM THE BEGINNING (a million thanks to the both of them!).
2) We all vow to remain single for the rest of our lives although deep in my heart, I pray that Atty. Joy and Atty. Norie will find the man of their dreams (or the man of their dreams will find them). No one for me please!
3) We all love funny movies from "Shrek" to "Music and Lyrics". How we talked about the movies that we enjoyed watching was simply hilarious. Atty. Norie and I also love action movies but when we verbalized our intention of watching Die Hard 4, Atty. Joy jokingly told us that how could we possibly like Bruce Willis when he's already bald and old? Of course, Atty. Norie and I retaliated that Bruce Willis is still Bruce Willis, whether young or old. But we all agreed that Jude Law definitely has the sexiest, most expressive eyes there is. Better watch "the Holiday" if you happen to disagree with the three of us.
4) We are all diet watchers although Atty. Joy and I tease Atty. Norie for being paranoid about her calorie intake. I wanted to have dinner at Blue Bay Buffet but she preferred Kimono Ken for she only wanted to eat Kani Salad! After thorough deliberation,we asked for 3 orders of Kani Salad, 3 Miso Soup, 1 Chicken Teriyaki, 1 Tuna Sashimi and 1 Tempura of 5 pcs. prawns. Upon my prodding, Atty. Norie tried the Green Mango Shake while Atty. Joy remained loyal to the good old water. Of course, I didn't order any drink coz I don't leave home without 1 can of Light Coke in my Coleman.
5) We all want to be physically fit but unfortunately, because of their rat race schedule (being in demand and all) my two lawyer friends lack the time to devote even only 30 minutes a day for exercise. I shared some tips which you might also find helpful:
a) 30 minutes of brisk walking if you have time
b) 15 minutes of going up and down the stairs is equivalent to 30 mins. of walking
c) 15 minutes exercise upon waking up and 15 minutes before sleeping or
d) spread the 30 min. exercise into 3 10-minute exercises during the day. Maybe 10 mins. morning, 10 mins. mid day, 10 mins. afternoon
e) include hula hoop even for only 5 mins. to trim the belly
After we drank coffee at Cheesecake, etc. and indulged in Choco Dome (both of them ate 1/16 each while I had no choice but to finish the remaining 7/8 of the gigantic slice), Atty. Norie and Atty. Joy promised me that when we meet after 3 months, they will surprise me with their new belly-free figures.
I have absolutely no doubt that they will.
Saturday, June 30, 2007
A Tribute to my Friends & "Enemies" (Part 3)
1. Amvic
She was like my younger sister in Kindergarten. I would joyfully ride in their car in going home and supposedly drop me off in our house but oftentimes, we would beg her yaya, Nanay Ising, to just proceed to their place. Their home was my 2nd home because I would normally have lunch there and play with her and her siblings for the rest of the day. Her family owned two movie houses in Marbel, South Cotabato and I had the privilege to own a lifetime pass—my face!
2. Leny
My dearest friend since Grade I who flew all the way from Cebu to stand as my Maid of Honor in my fantasy wedding. I didn't feel the loneliness of being an only child for she occasionally slept in the house when we were in the elementary grades.
3. Bobie (Myrna)
My ever faithful companion in watching Nora Aunor movies. One time, she fetched me around 8AM to watch a movie of our idol. I asked her to eat breakfast with me but she was in a hurry to go, explaining to me that there would be lots of cinema goers because it was a Saturday, a "market day" in Marbel, South Cotabato. We rushed to Galaxy Theatre, pushed our way through the crowd to buy her ticket. Suddenly, she held my hand and told me "Nors, nahihilo ako". She collapsed on the floor, followed by the coins on her hand. We brought her to the adjacent establishment and like a good Samaritan, the waitress of Venus Restaurant gave her a free glass of milk. I found out that she missed breakfast in order to fetch me early! I urged her to go home but she insisted that we stay. We did stay and went home before dusk, after two screening of the 2 movies (it was always double program in the province).
4. Genevieve
One of my barkada since elementary. How I exude my joy and happiness was greatly influenced by her. Gen’s laughter was loud, powerful, and infectious. She's also the most graceful dancer in school.
5. My First Love
Every morning when I wake up, I would drag my heavy legs to get out of bed and prepare for school. I would shiver at the thought of being bullied again by my faithful aggressor, Buboy. But when Bert transferred to our school in Grade 3, I found the passion to wake up early and look forward to the joy of being with him the whole day (though he probably wasn’t even aware of it). We were fatefully separated from each other when I went to Manila after 2nd year high school but we did not lose communication. We constantly wrote each other thru snail mail.
During my senior year in college, he sent me a telegram requesting me to meet him at Pier 14. I was excited to see my First Love again, thinking that he would stay long in Manila. But our encounter was very brief, prompting me to realize that we were really not meant for each other. It was time for me to give up my childhood dream that I would only get married to him . . .
6. My First Heart-Breaker
In Grade 4, Nestor cared for me in a very special way. I was overwhelmed by his thoughtful gestures that I was totally smitten by him. I was lovestruck. So I couldn’t understand why he suddenly pushed me away, telling me that we could not be together. I vividly remember crying behind the curtain of our Health Corner while reading his “breakup” letter in Grade 4 hahahah . . .
7. JOMMS
I admired and envied this petite, soft spoken, poised, fair skinned pretty group of girls in the intermediate grades composed of Jocelyn, Ofelia, Marichu, Mimi, and Salvacion that I gave them the acronym JOMMS. If I were a boy, I would have fallen in love with any one of them. They were a refreshing sight to behold in the midst of the rowdy group of bullies who often traumatized my day. They were cute and lady-like, so unlike me! Jocelyn was the silent type. Ofelia, cheerful and bubbly. I would gasp whenever Marichu walked into the room with her regal demeanor. Mimi was pretty cool and smart. Sallie was innocently simple, the cutest of them all with her braided pony tail hair.
8. Katsot (Leoncio)
My partner in our dance group from Grade 1 to 6. Although I knew he wanted to dance with his crush Lina, he didn't complain that he became my partner for-all-time. He was a true gentleman, very unlike Leandrino and his notorious gang EG and RR.
9. Buboy (Leandrino)
From Grade 1 to Grade 6, my rival Leandrino was faithful to his supreme vow to bully me every single day. I dunno why he had to pick me as the subject of his aggression. He insulted me with degrading statements, contradicted me about anything and everything under the planet. He even cheered his buddies when they harmed me physically. I begged my mother to enroll me in Karate so I could defend myself like Wang Yu and Meng Fei but she enrolled me in Ballet class instead. Anyway, I thank Buboy for exposing me early to the harsh realities of life—that you cannot please everybody all the time. And you should never allow people to treat you badly. You should only allow people to treat you the way you like to be treated. You should never think low of yourself just because other people criticize you. You are what you are—inside. It takes courage and strength to face the world’s trials and disappointments but you just have to do it. You cannot solve your problem by running from it. You have to face it head-on. You cannot have everything you want in life but you can still choose to be happy.
10. Bro. R. R.
Our Grade 5 Catechism Teacher—the first person who intentionally humiliated me in public. He overheard me saying something awful to one of the bullies not knowing that I was just defending myself. Unfortunately, he misunderstood it as an insult against him. He reprimanded me in front of my classmates just as our teacher was about to enter the room. She instructed me to apologize and I did, although in my heart I believed I wasn’t at fault. I could still remember his facial expression while I was talking to him. He was looking at me with contempt and disbelief. That day, I learned that no matter how hard you try, you cannot please everybody all the time. That although people will judge you for what you did, God will know what’s in your heart. There’s no need to explain your side because a real friend will always understand whether you’re right or wrong while an enemy will never believe you even though you’re right.
11. C and L
Before our graduation rites, C and L requested me to have a picture with them at a photo studio. I had no qualms going with them because these two were behaved and good students. After our picture taking, they invited me to have snacks at a nearby restaurant. I was sipping my bottle of 8-oz Coke when they blurted out that both of them like me. I was schocked by their courageous act of confession and told myself “Wow! These two are the bravest.” I was completely stunned but managed to tell them that I loved someone although up to this time, this person never revealed his true feelings for me. They told me it was obvious I loved BT but they just wanted me to know how they felt and asked if we could still be friends. I would have wanted us to stay as friends but we got separated after Grade 6. They entered Notre Dame Boys High Sch. Dept and I went to KNCHS (Koronadal National Comprehensive High Sch). Thank you, C and L for the attention you freely gave me. Thank you for letting me feel I was someone special.
12. The MODERATE Gang of KNCHS
Here's how the group came to be: the M from Myrna, the O from nO ra, the D from neliDa, the E from genEvieve, the R from maRna, the A from vAngie, the T from faiTh, the E from nEnita. Although the group disintegrated after 2 years (I migrated to Manila, Bobie went to Davao, Vangie transferred to Notre Dame), high school was so much fun, hilarious and memorable because of the MODERATE Gang. We were a bunch of girls who just loved to play games and eat comfort food!
13. Ate Neneng
When I was 3-6, Ate Neneng was one of our bed spacers in our ladies' dormitory. We celebrate our birthday together because I was born June 6, and she—June 7. We were so close then, and we became closer when, by God's miracle, she married my uncle Felix. Because of her, I was admitted to UE High School although I was a transferee from the province. Ate Neneng became my ever thoughtful guardian from Junior High up to 2nd year College. She took good care of me as if I were her own child. I go home to their apartment during week ends where I would be pampered with my favorite food prepared by my Imang Bayang (her mother-in-law). She would also invite my room mates and treat them as her own family.
14. The Six Sexy Chicks of Room Six
Life as a transferee from the province was frightening but Neneng, Ding then Ning, Ninfa, Menchu and Leah made it easier for me. I wasn't even homesick because of their love and guidance. Although I was only 15 then and all of them were already college students, they treated me with utmost respect. I wouldn't have easily adjusted to city life if not for the support of my caring room mates in Holy Spirit Dorm and Cenee our close dorm mate and her boyfriend Catchel.
15. Belen and Delia
My two closest friends in UE High Sch. While most of my classmates were making fun of me because of my Ilonggo accent, these two extraordinary girls accepted me for what I was. I enjoyed every single minute that I was with them. It was an endearing friendship of 3 unique individuals coming from Malvar Batangas, Botolan Zambales, and Marbel South Cotabato. I miss these two soooo much! I wish and pray that God will make a way for us to be together again.
16. D Big Taym Clan of Kalayaan
It was culture shock for me, coming from the bustling life in C.M. Recto to the sleepy town of Diliman, Quezon City. Not once did I feel homesick when I was still staying in CM Recto but when I transferred to Diliman, Quezon City, I felt the loneliness and emptiness I never felt before. My friends in Kalayaan Dorm (Zeny, Cristy, Elsa, Rosabel, Marichu, Art, Nilo, Ador, Erle & Arnel) saved me from melancholia and severe nostalgia.
17. After 3 years of surviving dorm food, I told Nanay it's about time that she put an end to my misery. I wanted to eat home-cooked meals for a change. I joined the de Jesus siblings of Marbel (Ate Baby, Kuya Ato, Bert & Jojo) in an apartment along Tomas Morato, just 15 minutes away from the university. Jojo's best friend Peter also stayed with us. It was a completely different life for me—something I never experienced before but truly exciting. My room mates and me had so much fun playing pingpong, watching movies together, playing cards, and chasing JD Transit to go to UP.
18. In 1977, my family and I were reunited in Las Pinas City. Travel time and school load were nerve wrecking but thanks to my Stat barkada (Ador, Cristy, Agnes, Majel, Mel, Michelle & Luz), I was able to keep my sanity and managed to defend my undergraduate thesis.
19. Nilo
My bestest friend in college who stood by me through thick and thin. Next to Nanay, he is probably the most patient man I've ever met. I eventually fell madly in love with him but later discovered that we're not destined for each other. He was gifted with all the qualities that a woman seeks for in a man but God had a different plan for both of us. Nevertheless—thank you, Nilo, for the six colorful years that you patiently spent with me.
With that, I think I have to pause here and reminisce for a while. Watch out for Part IV!
Sunday, June 24, 2007
Unlike Mother, Very Unlike Daughter
Mother's Day passed and I missed to write a post about my dearest Nanay. It's because when I started this blog last May 14, 2007, it was already a day after Mother's Day. And during that time, my mind was preoccupied with my 50th birthday fantasy of running the 5k marathon (I just hope this fantasy will someday be a reality).
Anyway, my mother is so easy to describe--she is simply sooooh unlike me. Let me just give you a random list of traits that she possess which until now, blows my mind away:
1. Patience: There is no other person on planet Earth who is as patient as my mother. To cite one example, she was able to bear her driver's shortcomings and idiosyncrasies for 28 years now. Every morning, she would stand outside the garage waiting for her driver instead of him waiting for her. After a conference and it's time to go home, her driver is nowhere to be found. He's out there malling or whatever. She'll wait for him for ages before he finally shows up and fetch her. Had I been his employer, he wouldn't have lasted a week!
2. Positive Attitude: Nanay would often tell me--"When you look at a person, focus on his positive traits rather than the negative." She is the only person I know who could still find a positive comment on an obviously negative situation. When Mt. Pinatubo erupted and destroyed some towns in Pampanga and Zambales, that was the time when Nanay's Agency became the Top Provincial Agency of Philamlife. Nanay wasn't discouraged but instead led her agency to becoming no. 1. If there would be a Norman Vincent Peale Award, my mother will definitely be the recipient.
3. Perseverance: "Kulitan, anak, ang buhay"--she always tell me. Nanay will not stop until she motivates her agents to attain their maximum productivity. If her initial plan fails, she moves to Plan B, and so on and so forth. She constantly thinks, reads, and implement new ways and means to improve the agency's performance. I have tried to apply her principles when I was still in the garments business but because we're so different from each other, it took a lot of brainwashing on my part to adapt and finally change.
4. Temperance: My mother believes that anything in excess is bad for the body. Take everything in moderation. Among her favorite motto is "I don't eat when I'm not hungry". She often tells me "you live in order to eat. I eat in order to live." When it comes to food, I can't believe I have a mother like her--exactly my opposite. She is the only person I know who loses appetite when she sees a buffet table. She still craves for saluyot or alogbati in front of kare-kare, crispy pata,etc. Unlike me whose belly has an unlimited capacity for expansion, my mother maintains her normal intake of food at all times. She only eats to fulfill her subsistence level, no more no less.
5. Readiness: Year after year, I vow to enroll in ballroom dancing so I could enjoy the Fellowship Night prior to the Annual Recognition Program of Philamlife. And year after year, I point at my mother whenever the DI approach me and ask me to dance. Then people would tell me "Daig ka pa ng Nanay mo. Game na game." I dunno how she does it but she can dance with the DI any dance step under the sun. She never had any formal training and yet she dances like a PRO. She'll tell me "Susundan mo lang naman ang DI, anak. Mahirap talagang makasunod ang matigas ang ulong katulad mo. Tingnan mo ako, palibhasa masunurin kaya madali lang para sa akin." In any affair or occasion, if somebody asks her to talk, act, dance or sing, she doesn't hesitate to comply. She's the epitome of a true Girl Scout: Always Ready.
6. Kindness: Nanay can reprimand anybody without hurting the person's feelings. She does it with gentleness and compassion. One doesn't even notice that he's being reprimanded but in the end, he will realize his mistake and follow my mother's advice. Her principle "Pwede mo namang pagalitan ang isang tao na hindi sinisigawan" is exactly the opposite of what my father is. My father is used to shouting at people even though he's not actually angry. Ganon lang daw talaga ang mga Kabitenyo. And I, being their offspring, like to think that I'm somewhere in the middle.
7. Talkativeness: I have never met a man or woman who can talk straight non stop without interruption for 24 hours like my mother. One time, we went to a wake in Pampanga. We arrived there before lunch. Nanay started talking to the people there. Night time came and she's still talking. I slept on her lap but every now and then, I can hear her talking to someone. Finally, I rose at the sound of the cock, suggesting it was already morning. Nanay was still talking. Then it was time for the last rites intended for the dead. That's the time Nanay stopped talking. I even teased her "buti hindi bumangon ang patay at sinabing tumahimik na kayo para makatulog siya!"
8. Sense of Humor: Nanay doesn't ran out of funny thing to say even in desperate situations. When she asked the father of my children to sign the Deed of Sale of the Revo so that the ownership of the car will be transferred to her, he told her "Ang hirap talaga ng mahirap" while moving his head from left to right. Nanay answered him: "Kaya nga mahirap ang tawag sa mahirap, kasi mahirap--hindi madali o maalwan."
9. Generosity: In Philamlife, my mother is known as "Ina ng Awa" or "Mother of Perpetual Help" because of her unselfish love for her flock. I may be the only biological daughter that she has, but she's got lots and lots of "children" in the Agency whom she assists, nurtures, and inspires. And her generosity is not only confined within her Agency. Anywhere she goes, she extends her help to anyone in need.
10. Health Consciousness: At her age of 73, Nanay has managed to maintain her 112 lb. weight and 36-28-36 figure (unlike mine which goes up and down like the Stock Market). She walks and/or does aerobic exercise everyday to keep fit. She used to play and win tournament games in golf, tennis, and bowling. She also played volleyball in her younger days. When I look at her medical exam results, I tease her "Wala namang kabuhay-buhay tong test results mo. Normal lahat!" Her only problem is vertigo which she experience not so very often. When colleagues ask her what her secret is, she would tell them "mahirap kasing imaintain ang production, kaya figure ko na lang ang minemaintain ko. At least, meron akong namaintain kaysa wala!" But her favorite saying is: People lose their health while acquiring wealth. And when they are old and rich, they lose their wealth to regain their health.
11. Financial Expertise: My mother rose from a rural health midwife of Marbel, South Cotabato to the "Most Financially Solvent Manager" of Philamlife. When somebody ask for monetary help she would say "mas mabuti na anak ang inuutangan kaysa tayo ang mangungutang. Sa dami ng tinulungan ko, hindi naman tayo naghirap. Bagkus, lalo pang lumaki ang blessings ni Lord." And I can only agree with her. I believe the Holy Spirit helps her manage her finances because she has the heart of gold. Whenever she talks about financial management, she would ask the audience who among them could do what she did to her only daughter: Since high school, my money for the whole semester is already deposited in my bank account. I would just withdraw money every week for my obligations and expenses. Everybody in the audience won't do that to their children becoz they're sure that the money will be spent right away. Then I will tell my dear mother: "Magaling kasing magbudget ang anak nyo, kaya nagawa nyo yon." She'll have her ready answer: "Magaling kang magbudget kasi magaling ang nag train sa yo (that's her of course!)"
12. Let me just give you a list of some other things which clearly shows how different my mother is to me:
a) When it comes to love, I am the hopeful and hopeless romantic: She's certainly not. She doesn't even consent to going on a date with your boyfriend.
b) I enjoy shopping: she doesn't. When she goes with me, she'll just sit on one spot and wait for me till I finish shopping.
c) I'm a movie addict: She couldn't care less even if she doesn't enter the theatre for 20 years!
d) She doesn't want to learn how to use the computer. So I guess she won't be able to read my blog unless I print this and show it to her.
e) She's very athletic: I wasn't before, but I'm now trying very hard to be one.
f) She doesn't have favorites: I've got lots and lots!
g) Unlike me, she doesn't indulge in simple pleasures like soaking in a bath tub, watching the sunset, strolling in the mall, chatting with an online friend, drinking Coke while munching a green mango with sweet & spicy bagoong. She'd rather read a book or watch EWTN.
h) I am the fashion designer but I don't dress up. I don't sacrifice comfort for fashion. Year after year, fellow Philamlifers await in anticipation what could be my mother's attire in the National Recognition Program. People would approach me and tell me "Buti pumapayag ang nanay mo na magsuot ng ganyan." I would answer them: Masunuring ina po ang nanay ko. Lately however, she already got tired of being unique and the center of attraction. She specifically asked for a simpler gown.
i) My mother is blessed with a green thumb, so unlike me. In our small lot in Pampanga, she was able to grow fruit bearing avocado, langka and hybrid guavas at the back of the house.
j) Nanay is the all-time holder of the "Early Bird" award. If the seminar/convention starts at 8AM, you can bet that she'll be there at 7AM, even earlier than the organizers of the affair.
Before I end, allow me to just rattle off our few similarities so one might not think that I am but an adopted child: We both have a personal relationship with the Lord; we are both fearless and strong in character; we are both so easy to please; we both have happy dispositions in life; and we do love each other very very much.
Anyway, my mother is so easy to describe--she is simply sooooh unlike me. Let me just give you a random list of traits that she possess which until now, blows my mind away:
1. Patience: There is no other person on planet Earth who is as patient as my mother. To cite one example, she was able to bear her driver's shortcomings and idiosyncrasies for 28 years now. Every morning, she would stand outside the garage waiting for her driver instead of him waiting for her. After a conference and it's time to go home, her driver is nowhere to be found. He's out there malling or whatever. She'll wait for him for ages before he finally shows up and fetch her. Had I been his employer, he wouldn't have lasted a week!
2. Positive Attitude: Nanay would often tell me--"When you look at a person, focus on his positive traits rather than the negative." She is the only person I know who could still find a positive comment on an obviously negative situation. When Mt. Pinatubo erupted and destroyed some towns in Pampanga and Zambales, that was the time when Nanay's Agency became the Top Provincial Agency of Philamlife. Nanay wasn't discouraged but instead led her agency to becoming no. 1. If there would be a Norman Vincent Peale Award, my mother will definitely be the recipient.
3. Perseverance: "Kulitan, anak, ang buhay"--she always tell me. Nanay will not stop until she motivates her agents to attain their maximum productivity. If her initial plan fails, she moves to Plan B, and so on and so forth. She constantly thinks, reads, and implement new ways and means to improve the agency's performance. I have tried to apply her principles when I was still in the garments business but because we're so different from each other, it took a lot of brainwashing on my part to adapt and finally change.
4. Temperance: My mother believes that anything in excess is bad for the body. Take everything in moderation. Among her favorite motto is "I don't eat when I'm not hungry". She often tells me "you live in order to eat. I eat in order to live." When it comes to food, I can't believe I have a mother like her--exactly my opposite. She is the only person I know who loses appetite when she sees a buffet table. She still craves for saluyot or alogbati in front of kare-kare, crispy pata,etc. Unlike me whose belly has an unlimited capacity for expansion, my mother maintains her normal intake of food at all times. She only eats to fulfill her subsistence level, no more no less.
5. Readiness: Year after year, I vow to enroll in ballroom dancing so I could enjoy the Fellowship Night prior to the Annual Recognition Program of Philamlife. And year after year, I point at my mother whenever the DI approach me and ask me to dance. Then people would tell me "Daig ka pa ng Nanay mo. Game na game." I dunno how she does it but she can dance with the DI any dance step under the sun. She never had any formal training and yet she dances like a PRO. She'll tell me "Susundan mo lang naman ang DI, anak. Mahirap talagang makasunod ang matigas ang ulong katulad mo. Tingnan mo ako, palibhasa masunurin kaya madali lang para sa akin." In any affair or occasion, if somebody asks her to talk, act, dance or sing, she doesn't hesitate to comply. She's the epitome of a true Girl Scout: Always Ready.
6. Kindness: Nanay can reprimand anybody without hurting the person's feelings. She does it with gentleness and compassion. One doesn't even notice that he's being reprimanded but in the end, he will realize his mistake and follow my mother's advice. Her principle "Pwede mo namang pagalitan ang isang tao na hindi sinisigawan" is exactly the opposite of what my father is. My father is used to shouting at people even though he's not actually angry. Ganon lang daw talaga ang mga Kabitenyo. And I, being their offspring, like to think that I'm somewhere in the middle.
7. Talkativeness: I have never met a man or woman who can talk straight non stop without interruption for 24 hours like my mother. One time, we went to a wake in Pampanga. We arrived there before lunch. Nanay started talking to the people there. Night time came and she's still talking. I slept on her lap but every now and then, I can hear her talking to someone. Finally, I rose at the sound of the cock, suggesting it was already morning. Nanay was still talking. Then it was time for the last rites intended for the dead. That's the time Nanay stopped talking. I even teased her "buti hindi bumangon ang patay at sinabing tumahimik na kayo para makatulog siya!"
8. Sense of Humor: Nanay doesn't ran out of funny thing to say even in desperate situations. When she asked the father of my children to sign the Deed of Sale of the Revo so that the ownership of the car will be transferred to her, he told her "Ang hirap talaga ng mahirap" while moving his head from left to right. Nanay answered him: "Kaya nga mahirap ang tawag sa mahirap, kasi mahirap--hindi madali o maalwan."
9. Generosity: In Philamlife, my mother is known as "Ina ng Awa" or "Mother of Perpetual Help" because of her unselfish love for her flock. I may be the only biological daughter that she has, but she's got lots and lots of "children" in the Agency whom she assists, nurtures, and inspires. And her generosity is not only confined within her Agency. Anywhere she goes, she extends her help to anyone in need.
10. Health Consciousness: At her age of 73, Nanay has managed to maintain her 112 lb. weight and 36-28-36 figure (unlike mine which goes up and down like the Stock Market). She walks and/or does aerobic exercise everyday to keep fit. She used to play and win tournament games in golf, tennis, and bowling. She also played volleyball in her younger days. When I look at her medical exam results, I tease her "Wala namang kabuhay-buhay tong test results mo. Normal lahat!" Her only problem is vertigo which she experience not so very often. When colleagues ask her what her secret is, she would tell them "mahirap kasing imaintain ang production, kaya figure ko na lang ang minemaintain ko. At least, meron akong namaintain kaysa wala!" But her favorite saying is: People lose their health while acquiring wealth. And when they are old and rich, they lose their wealth to regain their health.
11. Financial Expertise: My mother rose from a rural health midwife of Marbel, South Cotabato to the "Most Financially Solvent Manager" of Philamlife. When somebody ask for monetary help she would say "mas mabuti na anak ang inuutangan kaysa tayo ang mangungutang. Sa dami ng tinulungan ko, hindi naman tayo naghirap. Bagkus, lalo pang lumaki ang blessings ni Lord." And I can only agree with her. I believe the Holy Spirit helps her manage her finances because she has the heart of gold. Whenever she talks about financial management, she would ask the audience who among them could do what she did to her only daughter: Since high school, my money for the whole semester is already deposited in my bank account. I would just withdraw money every week for my obligations and expenses. Everybody in the audience won't do that to their children becoz they're sure that the money will be spent right away. Then I will tell my dear mother: "Magaling kasing magbudget ang anak nyo, kaya nagawa nyo yon." She'll have her ready answer: "Magaling kang magbudget kasi magaling ang nag train sa yo (that's her of course!)"
12. Let me just give you a list of some other things which clearly shows how different my mother is to me:
a) When it comes to love, I am the hopeful and hopeless romantic: She's certainly not. She doesn't even consent to going on a date with your boyfriend.
b) I enjoy shopping: she doesn't. When she goes with me, she'll just sit on one spot and wait for me till I finish shopping.
c) I'm a movie addict: She couldn't care less even if she doesn't enter the theatre for 20 years!
d) She doesn't want to learn how to use the computer. So I guess she won't be able to read my blog unless I print this and show it to her.
e) She's very athletic: I wasn't before, but I'm now trying very hard to be one.
f) She doesn't have favorites: I've got lots and lots!
g) Unlike me, she doesn't indulge in simple pleasures like soaking in a bath tub, watching the sunset, strolling in the mall, chatting with an online friend, drinking Coke while munching a green mango with sweet & spicy bagoong. She'd rather read a book or watch EWTN.
h) I am the fashion designer but I don't dress up. I don't sacrifice comfort for fashion. Year after year, fellow Philamlifers await in anticipation what could be my mother's attire in the National Recognition Program. People would approach me and tell me "Buti pumapayag ang nanay mo na magsuot ng ganyan." I would answer them: Masunuring ina po ang nanay ko. Lately however, she already got tired of being unique and the center of attraction. She specifically asked for a simpler gown.
i) My mother is blessed with a green thumb, so unlike me. In our small lot in Pampanga, she was able to grow fruit bearing avocado, langka and hybrid guavas at the back of the house.
j) Nanay is the all-time holder of the "Early Bird" award. If the seminar/convention starts at 8AM, you can bet that she'll be there at 7AM, even earlier than the organizers of the affair.
Before I end, allow me to just rattle off our few similarities so one might not think that I am but an adopted child: We both have a personal relationship with the Lord; we are both fearless and strong in character; we are both so easy to please; we both have happy dispositions in life; and we do love each other very very much.
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