Posts Tagged ‘Kara’
Today, my sister Ayette and her husband RG are on their way back to Australia. They’ll be having a stopover via Singapore and leave there tonight for Adelaide. Good thing, I got the chance to talk to her still even before boarding (flight was around 2PM). As I was talking to her, I was reminded of her first trip way back 2005 right after a few weeks of getting married to Kaye. I got a bit teary-eyed talking to her (good thing, walang nahulog na luha hehehe) as I checked on them and RG. Well, their vacation is one of those memorable ones since they got married lang last year. Why’s that?
You see, they really didn’t plan of coming home last December. Originally, my parents were supposed to go there and spend the holidays up to February. That is, if only the “stork” was kind enough to be patient with them at least for 3 months. Sadly, the “stork” was not. And so the plans changed. Anyhow, all is good pa rin because they were able to come home just in time for the Christmas merry making. And what’s more special with this one is because it was the first Christmas with the family as a married couple. It was more fun and happy because she was here, and not alone for the Holidays. Besides, it was also great to have a new “brother” in the person of RG. He had the first taste of the Plata Christmas tradition. Apart from that, they afforded time to stay with us overnight in our Sta. Rosa residence, spend time with Kara, Jeremy and Cassie (oo si Principal) to their heart’s delight! And thenof course, everyone got to relax and have some water fun at the Pool on The Hill in Pansol, Laguna just last weekend. Though Kaye and I, together with the kids, didn’t spend the night because of a prior arrangement, I saw how everyone enjoyed, especially the kulets, with all the splashes and tumbles in the pool, not to mention the videoke, and the XBOX sessions with RG, and my cousins Miah and Paolo. But more importantly, intimate fun moments are rare to happen nowadays since she lives abroad. So that was at least the only chance that everyone again had a blast with all the kulitan and bungisngisan on the pool and even during eating time. Their month-long stay was capped with a dinner despedida last night at Amici in DonBosco Makati. Sayang the kids weren’t around since no one can bring them to Makati for that, but at least Kaye and I were there. We had a simple dinner of some of Amici’s delicous menu (Amici is an Italian restaurant started by people behind the DBTI Printing press). 4 big pizzas, 5 different pasta dishes, and 3 pitchers of various Pepsi products were served and nibbled. We also had different desserts, which ranged from gelatto to the uber sarap Di Lusso ice cream cake!
And so and the last moments of the pichur-pichur and exchanging stories, we parted ways, saying our final goodbyes to everyone, especially to Ateyet and RG. Even when we reached home around past 11, I dialed Papa’s mobile so the kids can say goodbye to their Tita Ninang and Tito RG for the last time.
It’s almost 5pm in my watch (Manila time). Soon they’ll be landing at Singapore for a stopover before their connecting flight to Adelaide. But yeah, it will be a long while again before I see Ateyet again. Nevertheless, it has been fun that they were here. And hoping next time, if not this time soon, me, Kaye and the kids will be the ones to go there naman for whatever the season or ocassion. Besides, am praying that this year, the stork will be patient with them this time around.
Thank Ateyet and RG! Will see you soon again! Ingats!
Last weekend, Kaye, Kara and I went to Alabang for a scheduled trip to Wilcon. We did some inspecting of bathroom fixtures for the currently being renovated apartment home Kaye & my family will be transferring into come April (we hope!). We arrived at Festival Mall almost 8:30am and had Kaye and Kara dropped off at Aplaya for a hearty breakfast. Me, I went to Festival’s basement offices to go with the examination for a job I was applying for. Bad trip though, ‘coz Kaye was already asking me to have breakfast with them first before taking the exam but I didn’t, hoping that I could finish the exam quickly. Not only did I didn’t have breakfast, I started the exam after waiting for more than 30mins. and it lasted for more than 2 hours!!! Well, at least that was already done. After the long exam, the HR person told me that I’ll be contacted after a week for the results (do pray that I eventually get it!!!) In a few minutes, I resurfaced from the basement and followed Kaye and Kara at Savemore, who were already doing the grocery after their Aplaya breakfast.
So finishing our grocery errands, we then went to Wilcon and inspected nice bathroom fixtures that will be placed on 2 bathrooms at our future home. Kaye already looked at the Pozzi designs as this was recommended by my father-in-law. They were actually nice, but Kaye love them! So I guess it’s going to be Pozzi at our toiletry (hehehe trying to do some rhyming lang. sorry na!!!). After a trip to “bathroom city”, I sort of visited the shower section to check on overhead showers, which I thought it may be cool to have in the bathroom as well. But of course, that will still depend on what’s priority for installation.
Anyway
s, as we left Wilcon, Kara and I got ourselves some treats as well. Her buying a mocha frappe (which was just a large sized beverage but priced the same as a grande in Starbucks) and me, a mouth-watering double choco brownie, which the three of us shared in the car. Ironically, the brownie got us hungry for lunch so we decided to eat in the nearby westgate area, at Army Navy Burger + Burritto. All of us were first timers kaya sobra happy kami because the food was really good and sulit for the price! Kaye was busog with her burger while Kara got really full with her Starving Sailor Sandwich, a submarine-like sandwich full with pork strips and other delectable additions. I had the 2-pc Fearless Fried Chicken which I also enjoyed since it was riddled with pepper and even adding pepper sauce makes it sarap to the bones. But the only problem I had was their LiberTea because it was too bitter, since I think it was really concocted from actual tea leaves and not powder based. I did finish it though, for the experience. But generally, everything we ordered at Army Navy was good. I will definitely go back there one time, maybe to date Kaye if ever…
Next stop? Well, just across Army Navy was Fruiti Froyo. I didn’t order anymore as I was full already but had a taste of what Kaye got for herself for dessert. But hers was really good too, very relaxing to the palate! I never got to taste Kara’s yogurt treat, but am sure it was also delicious!
After the whole morning stay at Festivall, to our trip to Wilcon along Zapote Road, and our hearty lunch and dessert at Westgate, I suddenly realize one thing — I am missing a lot of possibilities in Alabang. More than the fun, the places and all, I know there’s much more in store for me to experience. That is, if ever I get the chance to get work here the soonest. Plus the fact that being in Alabang brings me closer to Kaye, as well as closer to home. Maybe a lot of things can change for the better if I make it in Alabang (or Australia, whichever is first to come! hehehe) But until then, there’s nothing wrong with dreaming (and praying for it), right?
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
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!
These past days, the hot weather has really become a pain in the neck. Or literally, a pain to every part of our body — our face, arms, nape, even to our hidden parts (censored!). The worst part of it, it can really hit hard on anyone’s health. For the last couple of days, I felt so stressed easily even if you stay indoors. Whether at home or at the office, the heat is something you just wish is gone for good. But that’s the sad thing. It doesn’t. Even when the sun has gone done, and you’d expect a cool breeze to ease it down (well, at least at home for that matter), the heat wave that has bombarded your place for the whole day, stays… and I mean hindi nawawala or umaalis! Frankly, this has been the worst kind of summer that we have to experience to date. Imagine, temp records of around 38 to 40 degrees of scorching heat… now that’s very alarming! But what’s more alarming, especially in my family’s case, is the concern to my kids who are prone to asthma attacks especially in an erratic weather like we’re having now.
Unfortunately, the worse part did hit. My kids were admitted again at Asian hospital last April because of their asthma. Little did Kaye & I know that their exacerbations were already due to something worse… they have pneumonia already. But good thing that we had them admitted so they could get utmost care and medicines will address it. We decided of bringing them in since both Cassie and Jemy haven’t been eating at all. If not for their usual rounds of milk, they could have been dehydrated already. But even the milk intake has waned. So that was really a wise choice to do.
After a few days, both of them have coped up with meds and liquids. Soon enough they were eating more. I guess the only thing that made difficult for us to have them admitted was the fact that they’ll be inserted with the needle again. And that is really to difficult to bear, especially for Cassie who’s veins are overshadowed by her chubby built. Siguro, we just thought they’ll recover faster thru that so we’ll just bear the sight of the procedure.
Thank God the kids recovered from the infection. But still we weren’t taking chances since the heat is not going down. So when we got back from the hospital, we had everything on round the clock meds regimen, as advised by their pedia (incidentally, the one that took care of Kara has become their pedia na rin!). And after a few days, Jemy is again back to his kulit self, if not doubly kulit pa! Cassie still was selective with food then but eventually became her old self as well. Kaya we’re still grateful that the kids are back to normal now.
I guess we just have to deal with the heat wave better this time. Despite the rising electricity rates, I guess I’d rather keep them comfy all the time in a aircon-cooled room, so as not to be affected by the heat again. And maybe keep the fans running downstairs when they play around the sala just to be ventilated from the trapped heat of the whole day.
Last week, Jemy has showed signs again of mild asthma, as evident of his coughing. But before it got any worse, we already had him nebulized for a given schedule. Now he’s coughing is less but manageable. I just hope his condition will soon be over so I wouldn’t be as worried of him since Kaye and I are working. Though he may be nebulizing, Jemy is still as bubbly and playful most of the time, as well as talkative and matakaw especially during meals and merienda. With Cassie, haaay… she’s really adorable at the same time super kulit! Besides we think she’s really a lot stronger than Jemy. But overall, we’re not as alarming as the one last April. We just hope and pray that the heat wave would finally come to an end. Because more than just dealing with the sweat and scorching, sunburn feeling, it’s really hard to bear of seeing the little ones suffer again because of this climate problem, where anyone and everyone can’t do anything about… for now.
Hope everyone can stay cool if we can help it. And let’s deal with the heat wisely, for summer, I think, is still a long way to go…
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!
Fifteen years ago, I remember the first time I laid my eyes on her. She, striding down the MassComm hall in a somewhat flawless walk, donning most of the time in maong and shirt blouse attire. She completely awed me every time she passes by or even just smiling from afar. Funny though, I never knew her then. Good thing, a batchmate of mine, Mai, was an orgmate and a close friend of her. Immediately, I asked for her help. And then finally, the moment came when I was formally introduced to her face to face. The moment Mai said, “Kaye, si Bong. Bong, si Kaye…” never was I totally ecstatic about the whole meet-&-greet setup with the person I’ve been eyeing to get close to. Since then, I thought things will then take its course. Or that’s what I expected it to become. After a few times that I had “happy feel” moments with her, especially those times when we get to take the bus ride going to Boni (where she gets off to go to her tita’s house where her dad fetches her), I thought I was doing a great job of slowly but surely becoming close enough to eventually ask her for a date. I know that time there were also others who’d want to win her badly. But that was my chance. However, when December came, the month when all good things seem to flourish, unfortunately ended not so good for me. I was refused, passed, thrown the bucket. In short — basted! It hurt me badly that after that instant, I thought of forgetting her. I thought that was the end of it
By middle of 1997 was the next time I got to encounter Kaye again after that “pffft” college incident. Still, something was different. Kaye has still that magic spell on me in a way. And all those times I get to visit her at the IL office in Makati, I carry with me that feel of elation because I knew it was her that I’ll see. I even remember bringing my camera with me and by chance, we did have that first picture together. Boy, was I so much in cloud heaven!
From 1997 to 1999, I tried again and again to prove myself to her. But there were countless but valid reasons why Kaye and I never ended together. I almost gave up, knowing she will not fall for me anymore. This was even reinforced when her department moved up to the new office in Alabang. It was then I thought maybe everything’s not just for me and her. But you know, there was something I can’t still figure out why I can never let her go. Was it fate… destiny even… or by the mere belief that Kaye and I may still be possible, no matter how remote it is to happen.
From 2000, things became mellow with my feelings for Kaye. Maybe because I was already seeing a new girl then. I almost ended up marrying her since we have been discussing wedding plans as early as 2001. Pressure was a big factor and that may have been the reason for the delay. However, there was one instance when Kaye invited me and my friend Ara for a special screening of “Oro, Plata, Mata” at GB3. Excitement rushed to my head again. Anxious of seeing her and maybe talking to her again, no matter how held back I was, gave me an unusual high of admiration. Bad ba? I guess so, because my girlfriend was there and I was harboring that weird feeling for Kaye at that instant. Even right after the movie, where we should part ways, I still insisted myself of taking sight of Kaye as she and my friend Ara walked away. I still couldn’t get myself over about that night afterwards. I just felt like there were so many things about Kaye I would still want to discover if given the chance.
In a weird twist of fate, I ended the 4-year relationship with my ex early 2004. I kept mum about the break-up especially from Kaye. Maybe afraid to tell or not ready to share. But secrets do find its way to be revealed. And Kaye found out about it. She knew that me and my ex, as strange as it sounds, were not really meant to be. Funny, but I did agree with her in silence. After a long while, I realized that I should give myself a shot at something far that I’ve been missing… and wanting for a long time… to be with Kaye finally after 9 years of deprivation and many circumstances that were not held back what’s due for me.
And so, when February 2004 came, Kaye’s birhtday month, I knew I have to do something special. She had an event one weekend then, but I waited for her the whole time. Upon going home, I assisted and accompanied her to the bus station, even held her hand (unconsciously! Kunwari 
) while crossing the street or just walking. It felt good, actually. But what was more memorable is what transpired when I stayed with her in the bus while it was being filled up. It was almost a slight smack on the side of her lips that showed my real intentions for her. I knew she was also surprised with it but what the hell! I liked it a lot and am hoping she did too.
And, as they say, the rest was history. Never was I so fulfilled when finally Kaye and I became a couple. 2004 was indeed a big turnaround for me, but was so thrilled that the girl I was hoping to end up with a few years ago, now I share the same feelings with. I was hesistant at first (coming from a breakup) but, I guess it’s really about time that I finally give that a rest and move on to the best of what I expect of my life to have – that is to realize a kind of life that involved Kaye.
On January 29, 2005, we tied the knot. Good friends were there. Close relatives and family were present and ecstatic to witness our I Do’s. But for me, it was the day that marked my life with forever with the only girl I ever dreamed of ending up with. Speechless yet jubilant, nervous but convinced, and no matter what the expressions I have felt during the wedding, I knew that I was finally complete, in heart and soul. I finally have her. And never would I let go this time.
And 5 years after, I still feel overjoyed with the whole experience. And I thank God that He never gave up on me for catching up on Kaye through all the hardships and situations. Worth the wait? True. Lucky to finally have her? Not luck but simply rewarding! Kaye has been my dream finally fulfilled. And together with our kids Kara, Jemy and Cassie, there’s nothing in life that I would want more. Of course, maybe just growing old with her and see our kids realize their own dreams too.
Be, thank you for the first 5 years we’ve shared, through all the good times and bad. Here’s to more years ahead for us, and more blessings that we’ll be sharing for each other and for the family.
With all my heart, I LOVE YOU! Happy 5th Anniversary!
Alam ko medyo kalagitnaan na ng Enero. Actually, plano ko dapat mag-blog upang magpasalamat sa marami bagay na nangyari sa kin noong nakaraang taon. SO… without further ado, eto na.
Una… thank you kay Lord dahil sa maraming blessings na binibigay n’ya pa rin para sa king pamilya. Alam ko di ko ito matutumbasan ng kahit ano except for prayers lang and kung may chance ay pag-serve sa mass (kami ni Kaye ay cantor para sa salmo responsorio).
Pangalawa… salamat sa mga bumati sa kin sa aking birthday noon nakaraang buwan. Di man magarbo o kakaiba, makabuluhan s’ya sa kin ng sobra dahil kasama ko ang pamilya ko para i-celebrate s’ya ng matiwasay. Sorry kung ngayon lang ako makapagtenkyu kaya magmention na ko now — to my sis Ateyet, Mama ko, Papa ko, my darling Kara, Papa Melo, Mami Minda, Kuya Anne at sa butihing bf nit I o na si Onid, Iah (pinsan ko), Tita Meh, Tito Eric, at mga nakaalalang friends ko na nagtext, Karen, Ara, Genesis, Ai at ang future bayaw kong si RG (naks! actually magiging bunsong kapatid ko sya hehehe!) plus yung mga friends ko pang nagpost sa FB at lahat ng mga dablogkarda — daghang salamat sa inyong tanan! Pinataba nyo ang puso ko ng sobra sobra ng inyong pagbati! I love you all!
Pangatlo… salamat sa bagong trabaho kong pinapasukan ngayon. Nangangapa man ay alam kong katagalan ay kakayanin ko rin ito. Besides, alam ko si Kaye ay nakaantabay lang para ako tulungan. Medyo major shift for me kasi from copywriting ay mayroon na rin akong PR work, if not most of the time, yun ang gagawin ko. Basta, pagbubutihin ko na lang ‘to and I know I would eventually excel din sa bago kong trabaho later on.
And lastly, everyday na ako’y magpapasalamat sa aking Kaye na s’yang nagbibigay sigla at kahulugan sa aking bawat pagkilos sa mundong ito. Siguro iba talaga ang feeling ‘pag sinasabing sayong sayo na talaga s’ya. Oo talagang sa kin s’ya and am proud that nandun ako for her sa lahat ng kanyang pangangailangan. Sa lahat ng mga pagsubok, kasiyahan, di pagkakaintindihan, kulitan, kataimtiman, at pagmamahalan, ako’y taas-kamay na humahanga sa kanyang paninindigan at katibayan ng loob sa lahat ng aming nadaanan at dadaanan pa ng sabay sa darating pang mga taon. But most of all, sa pagkakaloob ng Diyos sa amin ng tatlong napakahalagang regalo sa buhay — si Kara, Jeremy at Cassie — wala na akong hihilingin pang kapalit sa D’yos dahil kinompleto na n’ya ang pinagka-asam-asam simula’t sapul. Sa ‘yo Be, maraming salamat at di ko ikahihiyang sabihin na Mahal na Mahal Kita ng sobra sobra!
Muli, Happy New Year sa ‘ting lahat at nawa’y maging masaya ang ating buhay ng buong taon!
Pahabol lang: Ma, Happy Birthday! (as in ngayon tlaga birthday n’ya that’s why I wanted lang a special mention of her here.) I LOVE YOU VERY MUCH and thank you for being my Mama!