Gosh, it’s been a while since I posted an entry here. I had a good time reading every day.
Do you know that if Dad has been alive, he’ll be 100 years old today? He was born on January 16, 1922. As I have said before, I celebrate his birthday and remember him always during his death anniversary. We lost him one December night fifteen years ago after a long battle with ESRD (end stage renal disease) and six months of dialysis. Until his death, I was able to talk to him. That was the time he remembered stories about his parents, our Tatay Ayong and Nanay Maria. My grandmother died when their youngest was born. I haven’t even seen pictures of her but my uncles told me I looked like her, even with some uncanny mannerisms that I inherited. Maybe that’s why I was so closed to them before.
I imagine those times that Mom, Dad and I would sit at the ledge of our garage and talk about anything under the sun while we watched some passersby. Dad was full of those advices that I took to heart. When Tatay Ayong died, his siblings looked up to him, consulting him in any major decision that they have to make. He had other half-siblings (eight in all) when my grandfather remarried. I’d like to think I was closer to Dad than to mom. It was only the three of us (my oldest brother), dad and I when we were in high school while mom took care of my two brothers in the province. I learned how to cook because of him. His half-sisters are all good cooks. He would instruct while watching me cook. That’s the way I learned those yummy recipes while growing up.
What a coincidence! Today, the memorial service of his friend Mama Julian was held in Australia this morning. It was a lovely tribute to a friend my dad was closed too. Wow, Nana Mina was so beautiful.
A hundred years, imagine? I miss you….still! 🎉🎈🎊
Dreams And Escapes 
Fine memories. My mother, who died just two months ago, was also born in 1922
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What a coincidence Derrick. I can’t imagine what it feels like to reach a hundred. Mom is turning 93 in more than three months.
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That’s a lovely photo, Arlene.#
My dad was born in 1920. But he died when he was 69.
Best wishes, Pete.
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Thanks a lot Pete. One remembers the good old days.
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My mother was also born in 1922. She made it to 93. I love how kind the four people look in that photo. I wish I had known them.
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Thanks Elizabeth, on the right are mom and dad and Mama Julian and Nana Mina on the left. They the best of friends. At almost 93, mom is the only survivor now.
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Is she aware that the others are gone? I hope she is comforted by the family that surrounds her now.
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Before, she was but not anymore. Noel and I had a video chat a few days ago. I showed her my phone, she asked who that was.
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There is some mercy in the forgetting I sometimes think.
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Sometimes it’s hard. Only one ear can hear. And she easily forgets, even when she has just taken her medicines, she would always ask repeatedly.
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My daughter’s friend’s mother is just the same. The same question over and over.
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That’s old age for you Elizabeth. So stressful. She keeps saying that she wants to go home but no one could take care of her there, Alden is sick and my older brother who lives nearby had a brain operation last year, stress is not allowed. She does not understand what Covid is, does not want to wear face mask and she is unvaccinated. At her age she could not stand the process of going to the vaccination site filling up forms etc. She could not balance herself well when walking.
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I continue to appreciate your kindness and patience.
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Wonderful heartwarming moments and memories. Thanks for sharing them.
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You’re welcome. Salamat din.
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Pictures keep the good memories very well. Lovely picture. It is as if it was recently taken. 🥰
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It was taken 2004 pa, the last time we saw Mama Julian and Nana Mina. Thanks Deb.
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Ang tagal na Maam. 17 yrs.
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Lovely memories of your dad and family, Arlene. I’m sorry for your loss but glad you still hold your dad in your heart these many years later.
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Thank you, thank you so much Diana. So many lovely memories.
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❤
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100 years. I understand. My father was from 1918…
Good that you keep your parents memory alive… 👏🏻
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Thank you Brian. My mom is still alive at almost 93.
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My compliments to your mother. I hope she is in good health. And that she will stay with you for many more years. 🙏🏻
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Thank you so much Brian.
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