Archive for the ‘Family’ Category
January 16, 1999, 4 o’clock in the morning. I was awakened by some strange moaning coming from my brother’s bed. Thought he was again having some bad dreams of sort. I rose and went up to him. He was actually within my reach anyways. I called to awaken him up, but he was still in his sleep. I called again. Still no response. I tried slapping his face gently, just to inflict a little pain to wake him up. No movement. I became worried. Tried calling his name again and again. None. Was shaking him vigorously now, and making harder slaps. But only dull sounds and heavy breathing were all I got from him. Now I was really concerned. I don’t want to entertain anything at that point. But signs of Jon not moving indicated something was wrong. I tried listening to his breathing… same unusual pattern. Because of it, I already started CPR. Hoping that would help to wake him or revive him. Then I noticed the bed was excessively wet from his waist down to the edge of the bed. Now i was more than alarmed than the first time I saw him that morning. I instantly went to my parents’ room and woke them up. I said Jon’s not responding. Papa instantly went to our room and decided that we had to bring him to PGH. So we carried him down the stairs while someone was getting a cab. Boy! He was extremely and unusually heavy, like dead weight. I was afraid to think about it.
We arrived at PGH and instantly I looked for my sister, who was in her 1st year then as resident. Fetching her, I told her what happened. She rushed to where Jon was, being revived by another doctor. After more than 10 minutes of CPR and M2M resuscitation, the doctor already made his pronouncement . Ate didn’t want to give up, and insisted that the doctor continue on for another 5 minutes. But as they were desperately trying to revive my brother still, my parents and I were already in tears. Everything all came as a shock, especially for me who was with him from the previous night until the wee hours of that fateful morning. Ididn’t want to think that it was really happening to us. You see, he was about to leave for the States already that same month to work as an occupational therapist. He just delayed his plan to leave the country because he wanted to spend Christmas and New Year with us prior to his US work. But not like this. Especially at that time that we were getting closer as brothers, more so because he was also my twin brother. But that’s what maybe the Lord had planned for him. He wasn’t stricken with sickness… he wasn’t involved in any accident… he just slept and the next thing I knew he was gone. I couldn’t explain the pain that morning. Even harder was going home to change clothes, going back to the same room again. Was crying so hard… like my heart was about to jump out of me. I called a few close friends, even a friend in the states and Canada, telling them the sad news. Afterwards, I cried once more before I prepared again to go back to PGH.
It has been 12 year
s from the time Jon left us. Today is that day, his new birthday. Honestly, it’s not anymore as hard to think that he’s gone. But truly, I miss him a lot. The only time I get to talk to him is when I pass by South Cemetery and say hi or ask him in passing to pray for me for anything. I got to think that I know he’s just there, watching over me and my family, my sister who’s in Australia, and my parents who are now all alone and retired at our Manila home. I guess it’s also nice to know that he’ll always be my guardian angel (not because he’s my twin), always the Jon I knew who would stay with you and be ready to help you in any way he can. My only regret is that I never got to tell him how much I love him. But I guess as twins, he already knew that ever since.
To you, Jon, thanks for everything. Though, it may be too soon that you left, am glad that you’ve been a great part of my life. And I wouldn’t ask the Lord for anyone else to be my brother, whether here or the next life. Thanks again, Bro! We’ll see again soon… but not yet now… not yet…
Request: For those who will get to read this, can I ask you guys to offer him a short prayer? I will surely appreciate it. Thanks!!!
It was Summer of 2008 when Kaye & I last went to Manila Ocean Park. That was actually our treat to Ate Kara for her 11th birthday. Also, Kaye was 7 months pregnant with Cassie then and Jeremy was barely 1 year old at that time, so he couldn’t enjoy much yet during our first tour. Even MOP was not as complete then. Being the first oceanarium stopover in the country, they had a soft opening at that time so Filipinos could experience what it was like to see the underwater world for the first time. So the comeback trip (aka treat na rin) kinda made everything more exciting now that Cassie, Jeremy and of course Ate Kara looked forward to a more complete MOP last December 11. Well, this birthday treat is more for my kids than for me. You see, we usually have lunch trips at Tagaytay every time I celebrate my birthday. So this time around, I would say it was a lot better! And I was thankful (even at first was hesitant since it’s medyo magastos) because we had a blast that whole afternoon. I even had to purchase additional tickets for everyone, including my folks to watch the Musical Fountain Show that evening. It was priced at P99/person only! What a birthday treat indeed!
Anyways, the day turned out to be a very tiring but worthy birthday celebration for me, because I got to share it with everyone that I cherished, especially with the kids, who appreciated more the fishes and the other underwater animals that they got to see for the first time. I, for one, was so elated that Kaye made me push thru with the trip, and in so doing, made everyone truly happy in the end. Sayang the piglets weren’t able to enjoy much the fish spa. Jeremy was so ticklish that he often took out his legs from the water, and Cassie most of the time, was just splashing, which scared the small fishes away. Aheheh. Well, there’s always a next time.
Ps. I’ll take this portion to thank those who texted me on my big day last December. To my cousins Chop, Miah & Iah, Melanie, Aloy, Grace (who recently got hitched), Ai, Ninang Soli, Lawrence, King (naks special mention), Anne (my close sis in law), and even my daughter Kara, thank you for making it always special every year. Not to mention of course those who greeted via Facebook, thank you so much also for remembering. It has been a wonderful 36 years and everyone has made my life worth living. You are all in my prayers always!
Btw, sorry if this post is 1 month in-the-making. Hehehe! Was savoring the long vacation that’s why.
And now, here are some pics for your viewing pleasure.
The Kulets
- Mama & Cassie with Big Fish
"Daddy, ako naman pindot starfish."
My Pretty Girls with the piranhas
A manta ray (I think!)
Piglets with Mama
Jemjem All smiles with the sharks
My Chikitings in the Tunnel aquarium
Father & son bonding amidst the fishes
Fish spa time!
Go fish... nibble nibble nibble!
See how happy everyone is at the Sea Lion show!
The one the kids, even the yayas, enjoyed watching!
Last weekend, me and my family experienced the first ever cool breeze that swept the alley of our apartment compound. Clearly, Christmas is in the air! Apart from December was just around the corner, the coolness of the night reminded me of my childhood days when the Christmas season comes. That means I can ask for toys I’d like to have! Yeah, yeah, I know a lot of us were fixated to the idea that Santa did exist (of course, he was really a believable person to everyone. ang tumanggi, di ko reregaluhan?!?). Anyhow, there were a lot of stuff I really wanted to have, especially during the holidays. But of course, whatever’s given to me is truly enough, even if these were not the latest toys or the preferred things I wanted. Now that I am a grown-up myself (cue song here “My Grownup Christmas List by Amy Grant), I realized that there’s more than just toys and other stuff to receive. And believe me, these are things that are far more important to others than for me. So when Christmas Eve comes, and I get to see Santa face to face, here are a couple of wishes that I would want to happen, especially for my family.
1. That our precious kids will always be HEALTHY and be free especially from asthma. Ate Kara, Jeremy and Cassie are the best things that ever happened to me and Kaye, so we really hope that they will remain healthy and strong all the time. It’s just weakening to think when they’re sick…
2. That as parents, me and mommy Kaye will have more than enough financial backup for unexpected events especially when the kids get sick or for meds. Actually even for treating the whole family for leisure occasions can also be good. I kinda miss that for quite some time now.
3. in line with this, of course long life to everyone that we love, especially our parents, sisters, and close relatives! (isama na rin kami of course!!!)
4. Win a lotto game, even if the prize is just a measly 50M (compared to the last one di ba). Actually kahit sa Scratch It lang which the prize is an instant 100k, enough for expenses and a little enjoyment on the side. hehehe
5. Better opportunities for me as a professional, preferably Alabang area (para magkalapit na kami ni mommy Kaye) or Laguna area (paging companies in the area. helloo!!!)
6. Additional for number 5 is that me and mommy Kaye can find good work in Australia real soon! Opportunities there are very much acceptable especially for migrating families kaya we hope to make it before September next year. Besides our IELTS will expire by then kaya kelangan na!!!
7. Wii or XBOX 360 not for me but for the kids (hehehe pasimple pa ‘ko! ahahaha!)
8. A dream business that Mommy Kaye and I are wishing for which we intended to keep on a long term basis. Of course, capital na rin to support its startup and maintenance.
9. Plans of travelling again back to places me and mommy Kaye have gone before (Bohol, Boracay, Cebu, Mindoro) so the piglets can also experience it and other places we still dream on going to (Palawan, Subic, Davao, Baguio, Pagudpud, Mt. Province, and list goes on…)
10. A long overdue getaway with mommy Kaye either local trip or abroad, kahit 3-4 days. It’s been a long time since magsolo kaming dalawa e. I know, I know nakakaguilty leaving the kids behind. But may kapalit naman sya — ultra daming pasalubong for them!!!
11. An oven for mommy Kaye which she has been asking for so long! If ever sabay na rito, a nice kitchen as well!!!
12. A clean slate for my credit card and SSS loan. These things also are eating up din my finances. Haaayyy…
13. My own mini theater room, with 20 people sitting capacity
14. To have an joint album with either Jim Brickman or David Foster. Sorry but I am really a piano addict, that’s why I chose them for that. Hehehe of course may duet kami ni mommy Kaye if ever.
15. World peace!!! (Just making sure at least there’s something I’m aspiring for the whole of humanity)
Wow! Really big dreams and requests from the big ol’ Santa! And I know most of these are not possible still even in the near future. But what the heck! There’s nothing wrong in aspiring, especially for this season! It’s the only thing that’s left FREE for everyone!
So… if Santa was here, what’s yours?
This post is made especially Para sa Make a Wish List Raffle ni Salbehe
And finally, the day has come! Yes! It has already been a year and thank God that I made it on my first! From stories shared to comments to kulitan and meeting new friends, I still can’t believe that I’ve reached this far. Of course, you, my blogger friends, are the reason for my home’s success. Frankly, am grateful to all of you. And hopefully for the coming months and days, I will try to continue on blogging for those who visit the site and sit for a chat and chichirya. So to those who shared their time and effort to come up with a fan sign for my anniversary, this is for you, guys!
To all my good friends at the Blogosphere, thank you! I couldn’t ask for more but for your unique friendship and shared moments (especially in the comments sections aheheheh!) I do look forward for more times of blogposting, shared thoughts and bonding times again.
Daghang salamat sa inyong tanan!!!
We never expected her then, thinking that Jeremy was just 4 months old, and Kaye was still on recuperation stage. But as they say, our baby girl Cassie came as a good surprise when we least expect her to appear. I was a bit scared then when Kaye felt she might be pregnant again that soon. So to settle our worries, we consulted to our OB-GYNE friend doctor Doc Joana Lozada in Manila for Kaye’s initial check-up. Lo and behold, Kaye was confirmed pregnant! I saw this coming after Kaye guessed it. Actually, we thought of having another baby after Jeremy turns 2. But since the unexpected surprise is underway, it was just a matter of days and months ahead before the Cassie comes.
Of course the worries are back again. Knowing Kaye has APAS (Antiphospholipid Antibody Syndrome), she has to take again heparin shots for the whole duration of her pregnancy. Panic attacks were also a concern for Kaye (even me). Moreso was the stress of traveling, since Doc Joana’s is in Don Santiago Bldg in Taft Ave. So trips to & from her Manila clinic required longer travel time. But we were not complaining. After all, our level of excitement were at spiking points for the arrival of Cassie. Imagine, there will be another kid to arrive, and soon enough, we would now be five (Even before Jeremy, we had difficulties of conceiving our first baby). Talk about more bundles of joy!
A few months after, around May 2008, Kaye & I were already preparing for her eventual delivery. Doc Joana informed us that the only hospital she can deliver Cassie was in M-Tech Hospital, a medium-scale hospital located in Makati. Since it was the only hospital she can operate on Kaye, we agreed on it.
By May-end, Kaye was already experiencing slight contractions and movement from baby Cassie, but it was nothing we were to be worried about. We thought that she may even the same date as his kuya Jeremy if that would be possible. But since baby Cassie’s growth is doing smoothly, we weren’t surprised that Kaye made it tohru the first week of June, just finishing Jeremy’s 1st birthday. In fact, we could say that Kaye’s pregnancy with Cassie is considered the safest and I guess stable for that matter. But on the night of June 5, Kaye said that it’s more probable that Cassie is already coming out. So from our Sta. Rosa home, we traveled to M-Tech Hospital in Makati so we can already be admitted as a precaution for baby Cassie’s delivery. Doc Joana was tipped by our possible admission that night, though I know she was coming from a dinner party with his soon-to-be hubby Glenn.
By early morn of June 6, Kaye was already prepped for operation. I accompanied her, as the nurses wheeled her out to the ground floor of the hospital up to the OR entrance. After giving her a kiss, there she went inside, with Doc Joana already waiting to “dissect” her and bring Cassie finally out to the world. After a few hours, I was called for but not to join Kaye in the OR but just to view for the first time my bunso, Cassie who was already placed in the nursery. I was speechless when I first saw her, sleeping soundly, not hinting a difference whatsover of her new environment. A few moments of watching her, she abruptly woke up and kinda looked at my direction. Of course, new born babies still don’t have eyesight yet, but seeing her look at me made me feel like she knew I am there, her one and only Daddy.
Cassie at the nursery
Since that day when we first brought Cassie home, it made me think. Cassie may have been unplanned, unscheduled when Kaye & I had her. But you know what? We were glad that she came that early. We may have missed a lot of fun, memorable and worth it times if ever she did come 2 years after. Besides, her beautiful face, charming smile, and energizing kakulitan (for lack of the right translation), I wouldn’t want to exchange those 2 years of waiting before enjoying and experiencing how Cassie lights up our spirits and lives everyday!
Cass, I thank you for being here with me and Mama. I know that most times you were overshadowed by your kuya Jeremy or even being bullied fo that matter (sorry anak!), to us you’re not one less of a precious gem to us. You’re truly the best bunso we could ever have and we thank the Lord that He did plan of bring you to us the soonest! Darling, we love you and we do hope to serve as very good role models for you as you grow in the years to come, with your ate Kara and kuya Jeremy.
To you, darling Cassie, Daddy loves you very very much!
Mama feeding baby Cass at home
Cassie at 4 months
Ate Kara & Cassie in Tagaytay
Cassie fun bonding with kuya Jeremy
I remember the time when I first heard from Kaye that she was again pregnant way back 2006. My excitement went from 0 to 100! It’s like a different kind of rush actually, especially knowing that prior to this, we had a couple of miscarriages. What added to this rejuvenating joy was that Kaye had had a dream about a little boy being called by somebody from a distance. And the name the boy was called was Jeremy.
As researched, the name Jeremy is defined as “exalted by the Lord. ” Learning about this, indeed it gave me & Kaye a great sense of hope that this baby will be the best blessing we had been asking for as a married couple. And what’s more overwhelming about it, the name itself suggests that our baby would be a boy! “YAHOO!” was all my mind could shout out since we already have Kara, so a boy is definitely a wonderful gift for our growing family.
After more than 8 months of waiting, the time finally arrived. Coming from her final check-up, Kaye called me and said that her water is already depleting. So eventually, she has to be admitted in Asian Hospital in preparation for her delivery. Me, I went straight from the office to Asian, with all the jitters and coldness engulfing my whole body. Arriving at Asian, Kaye was already prepped and was given last instructions before the big moment. Around almost 1opm of June 1st, 2007, Kaye was already brought inside the operating room. As I waited, I was asked to dress in scrub suit for later I would be called inside. I could hardly contain myself as I imagined how it would be to see baby boy Jeremy for the first time. I was excited, at the same time afraid, since finally I’d get to find out how it was to become a full-fledged dad.
After an hour, a nurse from the OR came out and fetched me. And then, there he was. Only armed with Kaye’s Nokia 6300, I saw Jeremy for the first time. He was the most beautiful baby I’ve ever seen in my whole life. I couldn’t express the elation I felt being so close to him as he was cleaned by an assisting doctor. A couple of times, a thin tube was inserted in his mouth and nose to remove excess amniotic fluids that he fed on when he was still inside his Mama’s womb. When the doctor did this, he often cried and boy, was he loud when he cried! But for me, his cries were music that you wanted to hear over and over. After removing the tube, and some white thingys (di ko alam tawag dun e basta puti hehehe!), the doctor made her measurements on Jem. Surprisingly, Jem was 5.30 lbs upon delivery, quite big considering he was premature on the time of birth. After they’ve finished with all initial statistics, Jeremy was covered with a clean cloth, and finally, for the first time, he was handed to me so I could carry him. So how was it like? Well, it it was really like God handed me a precious angel to take care for all time. He looked so peaceful and felt so fragile. I thought to myself, I am so lucky to have Jeremy as my son. I couldn’t really describe the awe and outpouring of love that I felt when I embraced Jeremy for the first time in my arms. At that point, I realized that Kaye was still on the operating table. I brought Jeremy near her and tears flowed on her face. And of course, we did our first photo-op with baby Jeremy, eventhough Kaye still felt a bit groggy.
(Video to follow)
Afterwhich, baby Jeremy was taken to the nursery where he’d stay for the whole duration of our Asian stay. As I went back outside, Kaye was sewn up and brought to the recovery room. I went there afterwards until we were moved to a regular room the following morning. During the next few days and nights, I would frequent the nursery to look at baby Jeremy and see how he was. I never minded staying up late or not sleeping as much, as long as I got to see my boy. He was really a handsome baby, I should say! And more than that, he was mine. I never felt any prouder than that instant of just seeing him, holding him, and keeping him secure in my arms. And I thank God because finally, he’s already here, adding more sweetness and spice to my life, growing old with me, with Kaye and with her Ate Kara. Maybe, that’s also the reason why we added David to his name as giving praise to the Lord for his wonderful blessing to me and Kaye.
First carry of Baby Jem (few minutes after delivery on June 1, 2007)
Mama Kaye n' Jem
Ate Kara n' Jem (late 2007)
Dad n' Jem at a pictorial at home
Now, Jeremy is already 3 years old. But I always look back to the time when he first came out of this world. He is still my little boy… the little boy I swore to give a good life to… the little boy who’s meant to capture so many young girls’ hearts… the little boy that I will never be tired of loving, kissing and embracing whenever I have the chance. To you, Jeremy David, am looking forward to more years together. And everyday I thank God because you get to inspire me to do more and be a better Dad for you, Ate Kara and Cassie. Sana nga di ka na tumanda, as what Kaye always says. But even as we age, always remember… Daddy & Mama are so proud of you!
My Jeremy David
I love you, my Jeremy David! And thanks for giving me the privilege of being your Dad!
I am not much of an avid fan of big celebrities locally and abroad. But whenever I had the chance, well, I try to get a souvenir of whoever that personality is, if possible with me in it! In short, pichur pichur! But of course, I don’t always get souvenirs of all the celebrities I meet. In the same way, not all chances I get eventually to meet some have resulted to souvenir shots. I do have preferences too. And those I am sharing in this post are actually some of the people I aspired to meet in my lifetime. In short, sometimes a busy person like me, can also become bakya, a bit jologs, or a mere follower of some of the world’s renowned people in the biz. But before I present you what I have collected so far, just a note: all the pics I have uploaded are genuinely taken and not photoshopped. But I won’t take it against you if you think otherwise. Besides, I’m quite good at making two pics look like it was taken as one. Hahahah!
Now… On with the pictures!
Sari Yap is one of those people I've longed to meet before. She's the former Ed-in-chief, now president of Mega Publishing. She's also a devout Opus Dei, and single. This was taken during the 2003 AdCon in Baguio.
Had this pic taken during the Ad Con in Baguio in 2003. Sir Gabby was very accommodating and approachable in fernez! Plus, you seldom meet someone who heads one of the biggest TV companies in the country. That's why it was a privilege to have met him then. Daba?!?
Lucrecia Kasilag is the former artistic director and president of Cultural Center of the Philippines. She used to hear mass at the Adamson church where I serve. The country lost a great champion of the arts when she passed away in 2008. But I guess I'm just lucky to have met her and even see her every Sunday at church. Glad to have personally known you, Tita King.
One of my favorite priests, Fr. Jerry Orbos is the sibling of former Executive Sec. Oscar Orbos. When he heard mass at Adamson, I surely did not pass the opportunity to take this souvenir shot with him. Galing nga he was still in full vestments.
This was for a Samsung shoot in 2003 which I art directed. I was not starstruck but she was definitely nice and fun to work with. Imagine, Phoem was going gaga over moi! hahaha!
Really, am a huge fan of Jim Brickman! Meeting the guy in one of his radio guestings was really awesome! Am glad to have this pic taken (1997 i think) at KCFM during that time. After 2 weeks, we even watched his mini concert at Shangri-La, front seats pa! Hehe talagang idol ko 'to!
This was taken 1998 pa. This was in a event at PanPacific Manila where Gary V was formally announced as the UNICEF Ambassador in the Philippines. Being part of UNICEF then, I was proud to have met him.
Of course, Kara is one of my favorite idols in this lifetime. Apart from her being intelligent and all, am just proud to be her Dad, and will always support her in everything she does. No wonder am lucky to be there for her.
Of course, Kaye has become my obsession since college. As in sobrang taas ng hanga ko sa kanya. Di naman ako stalker noh, talagang love ko sya ever since. This was our first shot being a couple way back 2004. Ang sweet nya sa kin diba? Kaya sobrang love ko 'to!
This is my twin bro Jon. He's really one of those people who I was so proud to be with and share the good & bad times with since we started working. Sayang lang he left us early in life. But am happy where he is now. And he'll always be my idol for all time. The pic was taken early January 1999 in Paco Park while waiting for our singing gig in a wedding. It was our last pic taken together. A week after, he passed away.
Actually there are many others that I have not taken pictures with yet. But hoping to add more in my list soon. My next targets? Who knows? But definitely those next will be worth showing off to everyone who is also a fan at heart!
O ano pichur pichur tayo!
I just came back to Rm 2003 from almost an hour and a half prayer time at St. Luke’s Chapel for a rosary and some daily readings from Fr. Fiel’s Bible Diary gift (thanks Fads for this). I already felt a bit hungry after a late breakfast. But I really opted to spend time with Him, and ask for guidance and peace of mind especially at this very moment.
Today is Kaye’s surgery for her slipped disc. I never thought things would actually reach this point. After almost a month of therapies and meds that we thought might work to correct and restore Kaye’s posture and agility, it finally arrived. Actually, as I am writing this, Kaye’s still undergoing surgery. Good thing that his cousin, Dr. Joel Lazaga, who’s a orthopedic surgeon, is the one who’s taking care of the operation. Not to mention Dr. Lazaga’s wife, Yogi who also happens to be Kaye’s anesthesiologist, is also there inside for support during the whole ordeal. So, I am pretty sure, Kaye is in very good hands.
But honestly, I am still in worried state. Of course, a lot of things are to expect. Will she be ok already? Will there be complications (i pray wala!)? Will things be a lot better for her, more so, normal as we’re hoping she would eventually after this? So many questions… But right now, I just don’t want to be bothered by it. I want to be strong when all these are over. I want her to feel that hey finally she’ll get to enjoy life again… spend time with the piglets more, report to work, go to the mall or just do anything without fretting on something painful that refrains her from doing what she loves best. I guess those are the things that she needs right now. Maybe after a few days of recuperating and all, she’ll be good as new. And I do hope she becomes fine. So maybe, I could again start fetching her at the office, go home together, stroll the mall on the way to the service, eat at McDo or even grab to-go delights from DQ. I know it’s tough to be strong at times, but I guess I’m only human. Fear might set in, even uncertainties can really play up with your mind. I guess that’s the purpose of prayer. Communing with the Lord does great wonders in all areas — mind, body and spirit. And I did needed that awhile ago. That’s the reason why I have to delay writing this post and first talk to Him.
Now I feel more prepared to wait. Because I believe He’s done His part of staying with Kaye during the whole operation. And of course, with all the prayers that may have bombarded the heavens for the past 2 hours from relatives, close friends and dabloggerkads, including mine, am pretty sure Kaye will be back in her “brand new” self after she’s moved to the Recovery Room. Besides, I did promise her that, after everything has passed, I will see her in a while…
See you in 2 hours, Be…
I already read the one that my wife Kaye made on her Facebook account and reposted here at her blogsite. So as a challenge, I’ll try to come up with my own. I’ll see if I can come up with one similar to hers. Here goes…
1. I used to cook back home in Manila, as in not just heating water or boiling an egg. But not too major though ‘cuz most of the cooking I did were sautee-based dishes. And the only major dish I cooked with flying colors was my favorite… TINOLA! Now, I couldn’t even remember how to prepare it. Good thing Kaye is such an amazing chef for me and the kids.
2. Who’s not to love kissing all the time? Especially with the kids and of course, with Kaye, it’s one of the best ways I do express my love for them. So i don’t think I would give that up for a million bucks! (teka million bucks? hmmm… heheh just kidding!) btw, did you knowing that kissing helps you lose weight? They say each well-placed (and received) lip lock burns an average of 9 calories. With three kisses a day, every day, that amounts to burning 9,855 calories a year — totaling about 3 pounds of weight loss.
3. I’m not usually a cry-baby. I think the last time I did cry was when Jemy was being inserted with an IV when he was confined for high fever. It’s really different when a loved one is involved. Other things I get to cry about secretly are on movies, especially if it involves something about Dads. Hehehe 
4. I thought of also pursuing Medicine right after I graduated from MassComm. I kinda envied my siblings who were both in the medical field — Ate Ayette as an ER doctor, and my late bro Jon as an Occupational Therapist. *sound of a stuck turntable* Wait a minute! MassComm? Medicine? No correlation! (Bakit ba gusto ko e! hahahah!)
5. I use to oil paint back then. Had a stint with National Museum before with their summer art workshop which helped me honed my skills. My last year as an advanced student won me a Gold Medal for the Intramuros waterfalls painting I made. Ironically, that painting was sold to my HS teacher for P500 only. Come to think of it, I still have a pending painting job at home. Just have to find time for it.
6. I am not usually confrontational with situations. But if needed be, especially for my family and those of my loved ones, watch out YOU! You don’t like me when am angry… (sans the green color hehehe!)
7. I have been a copywriter for more than 7 years now. I guess the challenge and the fun of coming up with something witty and creative for whatever product or service there is need to copywrite is something I have enjoyed all these years. Maybe I’ll expound more like into… PR? Hmmm… why not?
8. I used to work with UNICEF, first with Greeting Cards and then into the Private Sector Fund Raising Dept. Such a privilege to be there. Hope I could go back and work there again in the future.
9. I enjoy drinking coffee, usually in the afternoon. That keeps me awake actually. But also, when I drink coffee at that time, that means office dismissal is just an hour way. Yeah!!!
10. The best thing that came also from marrying my Kaye is that I now have a new and permanent duet partner especially with songs that requires one. Hope you can hear her sing beautifully with me. We do make such harmonious music together.
11. I used to have a crush on a couple of celebrities when I was growing up. As in not just crush ha? HD pa if you wanna put it. Locally it was Angelu de Leon (this was pre-Joko days) and foreign, it was Drew Barrymore in her Firestarter and Babes in Toyland movies.
11. I was once a member of the CCP Children’s Choir, which was under the National Music Competitions for Young Artists (NAMCYA) Foundation. We had couple of concerts at various venues like the CCP, Folk Arts Theatre, PICC and even abroad. Though we couldn’t join the trips abroad because we couldn’t afford the fares during that time.
12. Before I ended up in UP Diliman, I used to study in UP Los Banos as a Chem Eng’g student. I stayed at Men’s Dorm for half the year. The 2nd sem was uwian. Tiring? Nah! It was just a 2-hour trip one-way from Home to UPLB and vice-versa. Besides traffic then was very easy, compared these days.
13. I graduated from Manila Science High School with no honors compared to my siblings. But I was happy still since I finished high school having a good average (don’t know exactly but I know it’s 90+) and the pride of finishing in such recognized special science school.
14. I used to participate in competitive swimming in my hey days. Yup as in the whole shebang — crawl (freestyle), backstroke, breaststroke (my forte) and butterfly. Been in the loop for more than 10 years since Grade 4. Me and my late bro Jon almost made it to the National Team but we opted not to because of our studies.
15. I was turned down by Kaye a couple of times during and after college. But the funny thing, I still couldn’t get rid of her in my thoughts. Parang there’s always something left to be done. And then, after 9 years in the making, finally I had my chance and eventually we became a couple. Afterwards, I made a promise to myself of never ever letting her go forever!
16. I think I’m a good actor. I don’t know if this is true but in my college years, I used to be the “most sought” talent for a TV production in MassComm among other batches (I was still in Theater major in 1993 before I eventually shifted to MassComm).
17. I once came out in a TV series entitled Pira-pirasong Pangarap when I was 8 years old. My mom, who used to play a nun in Flordeluna starring Janice de Belen and was once a member of PETA (the theater group ha!), got the stint for me. I had that first chance to stardom but my acting then was consciously bad (I often look at the camera during takes. ngek!) So that was the end of my budding acting career. Sayang…!
18. I used to collect a couple of stuff back then. From stamps, bracelets, rings, even sugar sachets (which I still collect until now). The only thing I never collected were girls. Hehehe di tlaga! That’s bad. Wait! Does a number of crushes count as collecting girls din? Sana hindi.
19. I’ve seen 3 oblation runs in 3 different UP campuses — Los Banos, Manila and Diliman. Wanted to see sana the one in Baguio, but I don’t know to commute going there back then.
20. I used to be a mallrat prior to finally marrying Kaye. I guess I have a knack to window-shop all the time, or simply walk the corridors of Glorietta or Greenbelt for no reason. Maybe it was a way for me to relax myself after a long day’s work. Sayang I love doing this before with my late bro at the newly renovated Robinsons Manila circa 1998.
21. I was in a rush when finally I had my first front seat view of my son Jemy being taken out from Kaye’s womb. It was so unexplainable to witness such a fine child being born and was later tended by nurses. There were actually slight tears but I guess the excitement stop it from flowing. Ironically, I never had my digicam then so I have to make use of Kaye’s Nokia 6300 for the coverage. Suprisingly, the recording was superb. What’s more weird, though, was that Kaye was very conscious and awake and even had our first pic together with the pogi boy. Good thing the nurse took the pic well, not showing the red-colored bag that was outside Kaye’s abdomen (aka Kaye’s uterus! ngek!)
22. I am truly lucky because Kaye and I share the same faith. And because of that, our bond as husband and wife is always strengthened by the Lord every passing day. No wonder waking up with her everyday is such a blessing!
23. Upon learning about Kara and met her when she was still 5 years old, I’ve been telling my friends before that she was my daughter, or been wanting to be her dad. I even used the pics of Kara which Kaye sent me vial email as my screensaver in my computer. So when I got to finally marry Kaye, I realized not just one dream but two — to be Kaye’s forever and to be Kara’s dad! Sarap ng feeling!
24. I used to compose songs. These were mostly love songs, typically of a Martin/Gary V. type of genre. Sad, inspiring and even with depth. I don’t know how it started I just kept on writing and composing the music for them. I even had one song (composed in just 2 hours) arranged which I sang during my bro’s interment. To date I have around 9 -10 songs. And am still hoping to finish 4 more. I won’t reveal the latest 4 until am done with it. Stay tune!
25. Lastly, same as Kaye’s, I always wish of seeing my brother Jon again, even just for a short while. Maybe he could even meet my wonderful family. I just miss him a lot, not because our closeness was very short-lived, but because being his twin, I long for the part of me that was lost 10 years ago. If God would permit that, then maybe I could tell him “thanks for everything” and embrace him for one last time, just to let him know how much I love him dearly.
So that’s my version! If in case I couldn’t get to write another blog before the year ends, just want to say Happy New Year to everyone and may you be continuously blessed with God’s infinite riches as I have been everyday!
And Be, it’s been a wonderful year! Looking forward for more years with you and the kids! Love you so much!
‘Til then! Ciao!
It’s already 11 hours past since a new year has been added to my existence. And am not even sure what to write here. So I guess i’ll try to start off by recalling what transpired in the past years. Where to start, I don’t know… well, here goes…
In the previous years, the day usually started with a morning visit to the tomb of my twin brother Jon. He passed away 10 years ago due to fatal arrhythmia (this I learned just recently from my mom). A rosary and a prayer of remembrance, then afterwards, my parents and I would usually sing happy birthday to him. And i know he’d be delighted by it. From there, I go to work while my parents would go home to our house in Manila to prep for some handaan in the evening. When evening came, of course, close friends would be there to share some of the sumptuous food Mama bought from Meal To Go, or sometimes catered. I’d say oftentimes medyo bongga ang celebration since it’s not just me who’s celebrating or my late brother, but also my late Lola Pem! So triple the celebration, one is here, and the other 2 is “up” there! Ang eerie ng idea but equally fun! And I’m sure they have plenty of food to spare there because the Master usually provides a feast!
I usually love treating my family to something far different than just going to the mall and dine in. That’s why last year, I took my family and some relatives to a mid-morning trip to Tagaytay, just in time for lunch at Josephine’s. I had a blast celebrating then. Apart from the food, the place, and the cool weather, it was fun to see my former yayas become local tourists (first -timers po kaya picture at pose galore sila ha!). But more than that, I enjoyed the luxury of being with Kaye and my 3 kids, Kara, Jeremy and Cassie on my special day. My Ate Kara also had a share of fun, specially during the pichur-pichur moment with the Taal Volcano behind us and suddenly Cassie pulling her hair. Picture moment talaga!
And the fun didn’t end there. We still went to Residence Inn for the mini zoo tour. Ate Kara had been there a couple of times. But this time was different. She had a moment of feeding a baby tiger, and even had a corn python slinged around our necks. Jeremy and Cassie also had an immersion experience with the animals around the zoo with Kaye. And to cap the whole birthday treat, on our way home we passed by Mushroom Burger for some afternoon snacks and takeouts.
In all these things, I guess my idea of celebrating a birthday is not about me treating myself. But it’s a day where I consciously give back to people I most care about something that they deserve because of what they have made me become for the past year. So like instead of buying myself something, I buy something for Kaye such as a book or maybe a watch. Or wanting myself to have fun, I’d rather let my kids have all the fun they want. And it’s really a different kind of satisfaction I get every time this day comes. And frankly, I couldn’t get enough of it ‘coz every year, things just keep getting better and better! Blessed ba ‘ko? Maybe. But more than that, fulfilling is more proper because I always get to share my day with them.
So as half of my day has passed, am still thinking what’s in store later? Hmmm… still don’t know actually. But one thing for sure, I’ll be seeing my Kaye early tonight for a cozy, quiet dinner and hopefully catch the kids still awake back home so I could hear them again say “Happy Birthday Daddy! Yayu (love you ni Cassie) Ichu (love you ni Jem) and love you Dad (ni Ate Kara)!”