WAMOC emerges victor over the other all-female teams during TNF Race

(Of Self-fulfilment, Adjustment, Love and Commitment)

Err… actually, make that other “team” as there were actually just two all-female team during the race hehehe I could no longer remember who got heard of the race first or who urges whom. All I remember is that one day Renee, Bambie and I all agreed to convene at the football field over at Agro for a night run. We wanted to prepare for the TNF race.

It was exactly a week and a day before the actual race. It could hardly amount to some form of “preparation.” Midway before the race, I was already having some doubts. I mean, who am I kidding? We actually had just.. three days?.. of actual running. And in those three instances, the whole team jogged together just once. It was always just Renee and I since Bambie is either on duty or is resting before her next shift is due. And of course I had to consider the fact that my baby is still way before being a year old. And I had been pregnant only recently, I don’t know the extent with which my body can take any form of physical stress at this stage. Strictly speaking, I still am at the recovery stage. My body is just about getting back to its normal state – after going through the “onslaught” of pregnancy and giving birth. Hehehe how I so love to dramatize things :) By the looks of it, I am recovering along fine. But come to think of it, a race is still a race. As a friend pointed out – I could suffer from a relapse. Bolo’s been discouraging me too especially when he found out the race would fall on a Saturday. He still had work then. It meant he won’t be able to watch over us for the entire duration of the race just like what he and Stephen did during a previous race.

Anyway, it took Renee’s (whom AMOC guys fondly calls “bossing” by the way)…ehem… “stern” inquiry for me to decide that I’m pushing through with the race. What the heck, the guys don’t call Renee “bossing” for no reason at all :) So on August 19, 2006 we raced along with the other 18 teams who participated in the activity.

A few days before the actual race, a briefing was held. That’s when Renee and I found out that there were only two (2) all-women teams. Majority of the teams were all-male. And they were not just male-male. They were really MALE with all the brawn and the browns. They had “real” muscles to speak of and their skin speaks of the number of hours they must have spent under the sun doing their preparation for the race or joining some other races. Some of the faces there were not exactly strangers. They were co-competitors in previous races, 5k runs, kayak race. Some were good friends from mountaineering.

The night before the actual race, the WAMOC team were still trying to complete our uniform for the race. I had to borrow Joan’s AMOC shirt since I no longer could find mine. Bolo had to secure my helmet and bag. Renee and Bambie also had to look for their own helmets. We didn’t even have a chance to meet at all. Each was busy with our respective personal concerns. We were like, just texting each other and agreeing to meet and see each other a few moments before the race officially starts. Huh!

It was good that Sharon – who by the way is about 6 months pregnant – and Jay was able to lend us support. Sharon joked about her “baby” having to wake up real early too so she could drive our official “photographer” (Jay) around. But of course she was more there to lend us support than anything. For the early part of the race, Bolo was able to join us too since the race started early. It bought him some time before he was due for work. He was able to lend us moral support up until the fourth control point (CP). Well, he even scolded me at the first CP when he found me there sans Renee and Bambie who had yet to join me. Renee had trouble going over a fence just before reaching the CP.


CP 1: Stumbling on fetters
Welcome to Checkpoint 1. Your next checkpoint will be at the entrance gate of Palma Gil Elementary School along Quirino Ave. You have to go there ON FOOT with the Prisoners cuffs chained on all three members. You can only detach these cuffs once you have reached the next checkpoint. Good luck and have a nice walk.





CP 2: Welcome to Checkpoint 2. Your next destination is to go near the gate of Thomson Christian School of Davao along Lopez Jaena St., and find your next checkpoint there. However, in proceeding so, you have to push the cart all the way to the next checkpoint with at least one team member riding the cart. You have to follow traffic rules in navigating the streets. Good Luck and have a nice pushing.










CP 3: Welcome to Checkpoint 3. Your team must continue this task of cart pushing all the way to the next checkpoint which is located near the gate of the University of Immaculate Concepcion at Bankerohan Public Market. Good luck!

This part sure did sucks! Hehe Cart pushing with one of us onboard it is no joke, believe me. When we reached Thompson I eyed its surroundings suspiciously. I could not see any carts around. It’s either we’re the first team there (we were so wise we took a short cut) or that we are to continue with the cart pushing. I almost groaned out load when I read the task indicated in the paper strip given to us. It was bad enough that we will have to continue pushing the cart, it was more difficult so if we have to do it at an uphill. UIC is quite a distance from Thompson and most of the way there is on an uphill. Imagine that with a load on. The word, “RELAPSE” sure did crop in my mind not just a few times at this point. Renee and I had been doing the pushing while Bambie sat on the cart. When it was suggested that it was my turn to ride – Renee simply would not do – I thanked my Angels for it. But was soon less thankful afterwards. It was so stressful having to sit there while you think about your poor teammates having to carry your weight. I tried meditating at one point, hoping by some miracle I could levitate to lessen the load. Yeah right! =)

CP 4: Welcome to Checkpoint 4. Leave your cart here and then proceed to the Ferry Boat Terminal near Grand Men Seng Hotel where you will find your next checkpoint. You can proceed by running. Good luck.

We have to run huh? On my way to CP 5 I sort of drifted off and noted how my body is taking it all in. I reflected on how great indeed it is to be a woman. Imagine, our body is engineered such that we are able to “bear” life – nurture it within us from being a simple zygote into a complex, tiny human being who is so full of promise and possibilities. Come to think of it, when a woman is pregnant, she is not just nurturing a human being but a future – the potentialities of which are infinite. Imagine such “power.” Men indeed are instrumental to our being able to conceive and yet, we are the one “bearing” it, nurturing it in order for it to completely develop. And on top of that, being able to participate in other physical pursuits… I’d say, females are in no way the lesser sex.

CP 5: Welcome to Checkpoint 5. You have to cross the river in a ferry boat and proceed to Agro football field along Quimpo Boulevard where you will find your next check point. You can either run or ride after crossing the river.










CP 6: Welcome to Checkpoint 6.

It was a pleasant surprise to see a familiar face manning the sixth CP. It was no other than Joan – fellow WAMOC – whom we found at the post. She pointed out that her shirt fitted me just fine since I had previously voiced out a concern that it might not fit given the extra “baby” fats I’ve gained.

The task in this CP required us to come up with a slingshot which we will have to use in hitting bottles lined up along the river dike. Bambie and I both took a shot at it. I took aim, stretched the rubber and whispered a prayer. I invoked God to be my wings, which more appropriately should have been the pebble’s wing as it would do the flying and not me. Nonetheless, God must have listened more to my intention than to what I had uttered since I downed the target at one try. Jay, and all of us all yelped triumphantly and proceeded with the race. The next control point was somewhere at the back of SM which is quite at a distance from where we are. But having hit the target at first try sure did lift our spirits.

CP 7: Welcome to Checkpoint 7. Your cp task is to be able to fly a paper plane from a certain distance that will pass through a region specified by the CP marshal. After completing the task, you can proceed to the fruit stand outside Magsaysay Park either by riding or running. You are going to find a vendor named, Neneng who will give you the next due of the race.

This may sound easy but believe me, it took us quite a while to let the plane drift to where it’s supposed to go. At one point I asked the marshal if it’s okay if I insert a pebble inside the plane to which he smilingly told me I had to find other ways :) Well, it’s ingenuity isn’t it? What I thought of? Hehehe And I did ask permission as I had no intention of cheating.

Since SM is quite a long, long way from Magsaysay, we decided to surrender our second pass and chose to ride our way there after we completed the task. We used our first pass over at the fourth CP.

CP 8: Welcome to Checkpoint 8. You must eat the durian fruit given to you by the vendor before you can proceed to the next checkpoint station. The next checkpoint is located near the gate of San Pedro College along De Guzman St. You can proceed either by running or riding.

Ah, durian eating was no task hehe It was actually a reward :) Sharon who looked out from the window of her car shouted at the marshal if she could eat in lieu of Bambie who does not quite get “nose-to-nose” with durian. The durian given us sure did taste heavenly. It was a pity we had to gobble it up instead of just simply savoring it. It was really delicious. If I remember it right, it was of the native variety. One that was heavenly sweet, tasty and fleshy.


CP 9: Welcome to Checkpoint 9. Before you can leave this checkpoint, you are to assemble your team flag and carry it with you all the way to the finish line. Your next checkpoint is at the entrance gate of the Davao Medical School Foundation. You can proceed there either by running or riding.
We thought there would still be more difficult tasks up ahead and so we held on to our third and last pass and decided to run all the way to the next CP. If a rappelling figures in one of the tasks ahead, a pass could be useful then. Especially when several teams could be queuing for it. It could buy us time, not to mention buy us salvation in reference to my fear of heights hehe But surprisingly, I had come prepared for the race. I knew rappelling would not faze me then should the race require me to do so.

CP 10: Welcome to Checkpoint 10.

Ah, this point proved quite a drag. Who would have thought it is difficult to shoot a bottle crown inside a trash bin located a few paces from where we’re standing. It sure did take me a while before I managed to shoot one. When we did, off we went to the next CP which was at San Pedro Memorial Park. Again, we opted to save our pass here and decided to run all the way there.

We were rounding our first corner when Manong Rudy and Dax, who organized the whole thing overtook us and took pictures of us. It was fun knowing a newspaper guy was taking our pictures :) For a moment, we subjected ourselves to Mang Rudy’s “posing instructions.”

CP 11: Welcome to Checkpoint 11. You can proceed immediately near the gate of Davao Doctors College along Gen. Malvar St. either by running or riding.

Again, we held on to our pass. Only to arrive at CP 11 and find out we were down to our last CP. And we are prohibited to use our pass as we are instructed to run all the way there. There was no rappelling or any other more challenging task. It was a beginner’s race alright but still, not for the weak-kneed as the distances between CP’s is still quite something to contend with.


CP 12: Welcome to Checkpoint 12. Run and hail your team flag towards the finish line located at Holiday Spa along F. Torres St. You are no longer allowed to ride.

When we reached the last CP, we were still required to compose the jigsaw puzzle that was made up of all the “keys” we gathered from each CP as we completed each task. Our clock did not stop running until we completed the puzzle.

All in all we clocked in a little more than 3 hours which was not exactly bad. Still we ranked 11th from all the 18 teams. When the later teams composed of all male or two-male-one-female member arrived one by one at the finish line to complete their puzzle, Patrick who was already able to join us then consoled us by saying in mock awe how we proved to be stronger than they are hehehe The second all-female team arrived last and won the “turtle of race” award.

But we did not need any consoling. It was a fun race. And we sure did have lots of fun. We knew there was no way we could rank among the top three by just looking at the rest of the teams. The top rank, by the way, was bagged by an all-male-team (all top 10 were all-male teams?) composed of runners and tri-athletes. They clocked in 1 hour and 30 minutes. How they did that, we can’t quite figure it out :) They sure was fast! Majority of the CPs were situated at some distance from each other. All those running about sure must have helped them a great deal.

Ah, as for me and my “competing” attitude, it was a first for me to have joined a race just for the heck of it and it proved to be totally enjoyable. First, gone was the pressure that the thought of winning could weigh down on you. It made me “savored” the race more, really experiencing each and every point of it in its totality as there was no pressure to distract me. It sure was fun and I’m truly grateful that I came out of it physically well and spiritually lifted. My sense of accomplishment then was definitely at a high. To have done all that in such a short time from the time I was pregnant and have given birth and all that. It amused me to think that only a few months back I had mused about my being “inactive” and totally grounded. At that time, being tied down with the responsibilities of motherhood and wifehood, I was not able to partake of my usual physical pursuits. Apparently, I’m now back in action hehehe And am truly enjoying it and am truly grateful for it.

Bolo's joining us during the lunch treat and awarding ceremony completed the experience for me. He texted Renee whether his “bb” is still with them. I was munching on my third slice of watermelon when she got his text. I was feasting on fruits then as the only viand I could eat was the onion rings – the sole “vegetarian” dish in an array of all-meat dishes. Ah well, the fruit salad – the homemade kind made up of cubed mango, watermelon, banana, papaya, etc swimming in milk concoction – sure made it up for me. And I was really more thirsty than hungry at that time.

When our team got to receive our finishers’ certificates and other tokens, Bolo was already sitting with the rest of the Fil-Chi group waiting for me to finish so he could drive me home. Our little one, after all, is waiting. He laughed along with the crowd when Dax jokingly slid next to me during the photo op and loudly asked the group if Bolo would mind.

On our way home, he engaged me in a hug while he was driving, taking his eyes momentarily off the road. I knew that without his having to express it, he knew how the experience had made me happy and self-fulfilled and that he was happy for me too. The spell was broken only when he remarked I smelt of sun and sweat! Huh! But I knew that he loved me still anyway, sweat and all. In the best way he knew how.

Ah B, just the fact that you’re happy in knowing that I’m happy is enough to make me feel really fulfilled – in more ways than participating in a race or finishing a winning proposal at work could make me feel. It hits a cord somewhere in my heartstrings every time I acknowledge that you genuinely wish for my happiness and that you are willing to support me in whatever I get myself into, just so I could achieve that. We might be having some issues lately, given the ghosts from your past and my inability to address it unselfishly – but there are moments like this that proved to be like a rainbow after a heavy storm. I know deep down, we love each other genuinely. There’s no doubt about that. We just have certain issues – from your childhood past and maybe from mine too – that we need to work out together so we could both emerge from them grown and better persons. Let’s pray for clarity of thought and the cleanest of intentions. May we both clearly remember and uphold what must be our “sacred contract” for each other. May – as it had always proved to be – our love for each other prevail time and again. I love you.

Happy Anniversary Papa

Thanks to the Kadayawan Celebration and we had Friday off last week. It's a good thing since it was also Papa's 4th Death Anniversary. Mama and I really intended to take a leave that day since as usual we will have dinner at his resting place in Buhangin Memorial. And we did.

We were joined by family and friends. Candy was kind enough to have joined us bringing along her two little princesses -- China and Asia. Ma'am Sonia and daughter-in-law, Lyn was also with us. Jun and Lisa and their cute daughter who is also my inaanak also came. They had always been a fixture during Papa's anniversaries and during All Soul's Day. Vynette and very-soon-to-be-hubby was there too. Truly appreciated their presence. (Thanks Baki).

Four years... it's been that long Papa and yet there are still times when I would find myself crying to sleep as I remember you. There are nights when the longing for you is intense... Even during the day when thoughts of you would suddenly creep at me... You have gone at a time we hardly expect at all... At 52, you were too young to have gone ahead... But I guess I was guilty -just as every child must be - of thinking that parents are going to live forever... Because our need for them also spells forever...


The Kids


the "isip-kids" and bb bullets



I still remember you Papa and sometimes they are not without regrets... Regret that ours was not a family where emotions are openly expressed. Because if we are, I could have told you countless of times... that I love you.

Astrology's Take on our Partnership

Got this e-mail for Bolo, from Astrology.com in my mailbox. It said something like "helping" him find out whether his compatible with his significant other. Since he's not around as of the moment [and I read his mail huh? heheh with blessing naman po :)] and out of curiosity, I took the test for him hehe.

I really find it funny how horoscopes and astrology still interests me considering my "renewed" faith. I really shouldn't be. But since little, I had always been facinated with astrology. It's one of my favorite topics in science while in elementary. But this facination does not mean though that I keep everything to heart and that I put much faith into it than in my relationship with God.

Back to the test, its result really had me amused. Though I'm no t taking it seriously at all, I did acknowledge that the reading did have some grain of truth in it. Or perhaps, that's what I wanted to believe hahaha. Especially when the reading sounded real good. I wonder if I'd say the same thing if there was anything negative about it.

-------- Tata's Sun Conjunct Bolo Mars: You inspire each other to be very active in both work and play, and to accomplish a great deal. You enjoy challenging each other and perhaps enjoy competing with each other in games. The only negative tendency is to possibly develop a rivalry with each other; this is especially possible if Bolo comes on too forcefully, directly and aggressively, hurting Tata's feelings or pride. Bolo's Sun Trine Tata's Neptune: The two of you have a strong intuitive understanding of each other, and you inspire each other's imagination, idealism, and aspirations. You help each other to become clearer about your ideals and religious inclinations, and together you develop a greater sense of meaning and purpose in your lives. You help each other to look beyond the daily problems and issues of your personal lives and focus more on altruistic goals and broader issues. Tata's Sun Sextile Bolo's Moon: You two are the best of friends! You understand and appreciate each other, and are able to work together very harmoniously. No relationship is free of difficulty and stress, and this astrological influence does not nullify other stressful influences described elsewhere in this report, but it does add a harmonious quality to your relationship that helps you over the rough spots. Tata's Sun Sextile Bolo's Venus: Yours is a congenial and enjoyable relationship, for you both appreciate and like one another. You also share a similarity in tastes and enjoyment of leisure activities and pleasures.

------

You inspire each other to be very active in both work and play, and to accomplish a great deal. You enjoy challenging each other and perhaps enjoy competing with each other in games. The only negative tendency is to possibly develop a rivalry with each other....

I'm thinking whether there was really an instance wherein Bolo and I had been a rival to each other... we do enjoy challenging each other and tend to be competitive with each other at play (even when we are just clowning around!) but we do it more for fun than to compete with one another. If anything, our sense of "teamship" is always prevalent. I am remembering what happened this morning on our way to work. We are outsmarting each other even in saying "ingat" to each other. It's like we were competing who would be more thoughtful of each other. Pretty weird really but fun and well, heartwarming, now that I think about it.

You two are the best of friends! You understand and appreciate each other, and are able to work together very harmoniously. No relationship is free of difficulty and stress, and this astrological influence does not nullify other stressful influences described elsewhere in this report, but it does add a harmonious quality to your relationship that helps you over the rough spots.

I like this part hehe Bolo and I ended have some "stressful" moments. I guess I've already said this before - that our argument could turn ugly at times. But there's just something about us that makes us reach out to each other again when all the fire have diminished. And we do work fine together... hmm.. in cooking that is... and on other things. Keeping the bedroom real spic and span is an entirely different matter, I'm afraid. Bolo is more of the "throw-everything-everywhere" around the house and I'm strict about keeping things tidy especially in the bedroom where I hide to relax and rest... so we're hardly "teammates" when it comes to this. Except on those very rare ocassions when he'd tidy up his bed before taking his shower.

But we too are indeed bestfriends to each other... as best as we can be to each other that is. Jen has always been and will always be my best friend. I'm sure Bolo regard some friend of his as his best bud as well. But there's just some connection between us that assures us that even if we could be the worst critique to the other, we could also be each other's greatest fan. Well, with Baby Bullets in the picture, make that 2nd greatest fan. For definitely, we're both great fans of this little one who happen to fall on our lap one fateful day :)

Yes! 2

The title to this entry is appropriate I think, considering what I wanted to write in here is sort of an update to the previous blog entry hehe. First, on that proposal we slaved over last week? We had a meeting with the client yesterday. Wink, wink it means we are among those being considered for the project. Then at the end of the meeting, there was no more doubt about it hehe We celebrated by buying ourselves some banana cue right outside of the building hehe Imagine that. I don't know what is it about enthusiastically munching on banana cue while dressed on business attire that excited me. I guess the excitement was really more on the results of the negotiation than any other.

As for that race? hehehe Well, apparently, Renee has this "command" about her that while I was entertaining the thought of not pushing through with it, just one reprimand from her whether I'm still interested or not had me readily said that I still am hehehe. So off we went to TNF store over at SM last Sunday to have ourselves registered under the WAMOC byline. Oh well, WAMOC sure still reigns hehe I wonder what the guys would think about it though :)

Hmm... actually, I'm having some misgivings about the race. After all, I'm hardly prepared for it after a year of being inactive. Well, come to think of it, who says I've been inactive? Try juggling being a Mom, wife and development worker all at once for an entire year and tell me it's being inactive :p

But yeah, it's not the same thing as jogging and getting fit and all that which are all necessary ingredients to joining a race. Bolo is urging me to back out himself. He wouldn't be with me that day since he had to work. And, he doesn't feel right about letting us race on our own. Make that, espcially "moi" who have had a lot to contend with. Yesterday, from jogging, we had to pass by the length of Bolton bridge to get to the bamboo fares where Renee is trying to buy/rent some torches for their church anniversary today (It's a long and entirely different story). Anyway, I couldn't help but hold on to Bolo while we're passing through the whole length of it. The waters below sure had me weak in the knees hehehe And he reprimanded me for it, saying I had more coming my way from the race on Saturday. Haaay, whatever. I'm not in for the win anyway. I'm just joining for fun and as Bambie would probably have it, "have a chance to show off our TNF stuff," yeah right! As if it matters anyway :) Ah, it'll be fun I'm sure. I just pray that I will emerge from it whole, well, with high spirits and energized :) Placing even just third would definitely be an added bonus! So help me Father God! :)

Yes!

Actually, as of the moment, I don't feel as ecstatic as that. I'm feeling real low. All that I wanted to do is to crawl right into my bed, throw the covers over myself and go to sleep. Hardly had any sleep for two nights in a row. The previous night, I was kept awake by Baby who refused to sleep at all. Something must have been bothering him, could be an upset tummy or aching gums (yep! his already teething! He now boasts of two lower, front teeth :)). Last night, I slaved over a proposal that was due today. I ended up sleeping at 3:00 a.m. this morning. I woke up at around 6 a.m., plugged on the computer and started right where I left off. Then, I got ready to go to the office. Once at the office, I faced the computer again and started piecing together my work and that of Kuya Arnel into one "neat" project proposal. And then having done with that one, we worked again on another. Huh! Hehehe So, it's actually a yes! we're finally done. And yes! we were able to beat the deadline and finished the proposals on time.

But last night's yes! was definitely an ecstatic one. First, it was a yes! that Renee, Bambie and I are contemplating about joining a TNF race next week. Second, I was ecstatic about being able to do my nightly runs again after months and months of being almost sedentary. From the time I've found out I was pregnant till I finally had Baby and gotten back to work, I probably was just able to exercise for like, twice. Yep, just for two instances. Work and familial obligations somewhat got in the way. And to think I had been real active for the past five years(?) before that. So to have done a few rounds last night, feeling my sweat running down my face, back and body sure felt great. It was almost a thrill finding my pace again. It certainly felt good to feel the muscles in my leg moving at its familiar rythm once again...

The run last night truly did me a lot of good. When Bolo showed up and played around with me, it sure made the night for me. Well, exercising sure did boost my energy and the "happy" hormones sure did come just as Tina Juan said they would after a good exercise. I felt light and happy and Bolo must have felt it too because he was very playful with me. First he surprised me by presenting me with an Ukay find he had that afternoon -- a red,roxy board shorts. And he started clowning around with me soon after that. It also felt good to be with our friends again. I was not able to go out much the past months. Well, being a Mom and a wife at that... So last night was definitely a treat...

So yes, I am grateful for moments such as last night. I am grateful that I am able to accomplish the things I did today. I am grateful for every little chance I get to do the things I love to do and to be with the company of some, good friends. This particular line of thought brings to mind the personal credo I wrote a few years back. One particular line there said something like, "to wake up every morning with eagerness in my heart to face the new and exciting experiences that awaits me. to be filled with gratitude for the many blessings I have enjoyed and for the many gifts that I have yet to receive as I go through the day..." I still strive to always feel that way for the everyday that comes my way. I pray that such disposition would always stay with me, for life indeed is truly beautiful even if at times it may not seem so...

"Good" Morning :)

It is a GOOD morning, a good day. Mornings these days meant being awakened by Baby Bullets’ muttering and ramblings hehe It’s cute really, he’s like our alarm clock in the morning :) Most of the time he would be making all these noise while looking at his hands, as if talking with himself. Sometimes, he would turn to me and poke me, as if urging me to wake up. Most of the time, I would awaken to his frantic search of that which gives him nourishment hehe In that case I would turn to my side and happily oblige :)

This morning he woke up quite early. There still wasn’t any light outside. He was kind of edgy and even crying a bit. I immediate thought he was hungry and urged him to nurse but he refused. It dawned on me that he’s probably being bothered by his gums again. There was an instance when he was crying at 12 midnight and refused to feed. I did not know what was wrong with him… Then it just came to me that it’s probably his gums and so I massaged it. He immediately settled down after that. I thought that amazing, how I knew instinctively. Mother’s instinct huh? :)

It was still early but having awakened already, I had trouble going back to sleep. So I just played with Baby. A little later I woke Bee up and urged him to join us. I was the more playful with Baby than Bolo is. Probably because like me, Bolo never really is a morning person. But he did happily clown around with Baby. But he teases Baby more than actually play with him. So Baby’s more like frustrated with him than happy :p But we sure had fun this morning, just the three of us. At one point Bolo and I looked at each other and wished together, under our breaths, that we did not have to work that morning.

Our mornings are like that these days. Except when Bolo is in a hurry for work or when I am, which is not that often. But I particularly liked this morning because Bolo and I cooked together. When Yaya had to buy something, Bee took hold of Baby and told him he’s cooking along with us. To me that was a pretty intimate moment – the three of us doing something together. Sometimes I could almost not wait for baby to grow up so we could start doing things together. Everything was a blur after that, having to rush to work and all but the afterglow of that moment pretty much stayed with me the whole day. I remembered muttering to myself as I was on my way to work this morning how inspired I felt. Bolo must have felt the same thing because he showed up in the office this afternoon only to urge me to accompany him. He was going to have his vehicle gassed at a nearby gas station. It was a poor excuse really but I liked the fact that he wanted to be with me. He’s right, we are still sweet to each other…

I chided him last night that he’s probably having some girlfriends on the side. It was a joke really, we were talking about one of his “friends” who is having an affair (yup, really bad!) and I teased that he might follow suit. He told me he doesn’t see any need to. He pointed out we have a good relationship and that we are still sweet to each other. Indeed we are. It’s because I have such a sweet husband too… But still I’m praying, that each of us be spared from any form of temptation. For all the creases and conflict in our relationship, we still have a good thing going… And I pray that with God’s help we will keep it that way.

Bb Bullets' First Costume Party

Baby Bullets attended his first ever costume party last Saturday, August 5. It was my inaanak, Raine's birthday. She's the daughter of Ryan, who is a common friend of Jeni and I. A good friend at that.

Long before the actual day, I was already excited for Baby Bullets. The only thing holding out my excitement was the fact that I don't have a costume for him yet, up to the last minute hehe The invitation specified that the kids are to come in their "Royal Costume." To me, that meant, Baby would have to come as a king or a prince. And in my mind I'm picturing - tights, colorful top, a cape and a crown. Bolo completed the picture by suggesting "dwarf-like" shoes hehehe I certainly have no idea where to look for these things. Good thing Jeni told me she had a spare "Chinese" costume. She suggested that Baby and Towi attend the party as Chinese royalties hahaha and they did. Baby was the sole Little Chinese Emperor there. (Although he sure looked more like a Shaolin kid than anything! haha) A modern version that is because he completed the get up with his Nike shoes hehe. The other guy kids there wore a cape over their slacks and shirt... The mother in me can't help to think that Baby was the cutest baby boy there haha One with the best personality too hehehe He sure did smile often (again) while at the party, charming his Tita Jen to the max hehe Good thing because it made her carry him most of the time hehe


My little Chinese Emperor cum Shaolin Kid hehe with Tita Jen


Bb Bullets: Don't touch me by the armpit Nanay. I'm ticklish! :)



Bb Bullets: Ay, ice cream! I want some!

This particular picture and the one below really broke my heart when I finally uploaded them to my computer. It was only then that I realized that Baby had been wanting to have a taste of the ice cream. And I did not notice it at all at that time. I do remember thinking at the party whether it's wise to feed Baby some. But it being as it is and being sweet, I had had my doubts. I did allow him a few licks of mine but that was way, way at the latter part of the party and these shots were taken a few minutes after we've arrived at the party. Aww, poor Baby Bullets. Nanay was so insensitive huh?

Bolo and I are quite careful as to what to feed Baby. Especially when we read how his feeding now could influence his eating habits the rest of his life. So, his food are particularly unsalted, unsweetened... hehe you get the picture. As for feeding him anything sweet, candies are a no-no. Although he already had a taste of his first lollipop when we were in Legazpi. Juliet of the PLSD Project gave him some and we let him play with it for a while before whisking it away from him hehehe We read somewhere that if we feed him too much sweet now, his tastebuds would develop along that line so he would grow up having preference for anything sweet. Bolo and I are careful about keeping everything in balance though. We can't have Baby feeling deprived and frustrated.



Bb Bullets: Hey Ate Towi, I want some too!


Bb Bullets: Am I not suppose to pick some cards too?


Bb bullets: Tatay, get me up! Huhuhuh


Bb Bullets: Tatay, can you make me a dog out of this balloon?


Bb Bullets: Don't Nanay! The rubber is doing wonders to my aching gums! Huhuhu


Family Picture with Ate Towi :)

Happy Birthday Tatay!

Bb Bullets: Hehe let's see who gets most of the pasta Tay!
Goofing around during yesterday's birthday celeb of Bolo.


Bb Bullets: Really love linguini! you want some Nanay? :)


The above pictures are taken last night while both my "boys" are goofing around with pasta while I rush with the cooking. Yesterday was Bolo's birthday. I practically ache all over from putting in so much effort. The pasta was cooked the loooong, authentic Italian way. Translate that to -- boil tomatoes, peel them (have your fingers scalded hehe), run them through the food processor, chop the onion and the garlic, parsley and basil; have the olive oil heated... you get the picture. It was arduous but it's the only way I know B and I enjoy our pasta so... And it wasn't just the pasta I prepared huh! Not complaining though. I always loved to cook. Just don't really have the time for it.

Chatted with Candy earlier and I asked her if it's in the women's genes to really put in so much effort for special occasions and particularly during the hubby's birthday. In almost the same breath, we also asked if it's in the genes of the guys to really wander away from the nest at times. Not really to be unfaithful or anything of the sort but just be with their friends. Remembering the past lectures I had on science and anthropology (hehehe) I guess it figures. It's the female species' role to give the nurturing, to take care of the hearth while it is the males' role to go out and hunt for food for the family. Hmmm... on that note, I wonder if the males of today have already started noticing that the Stone Age have come and gone? Yeah, yeah having some domestic issues on the matter hehehe And it's an entirely different subject I intend to muse about and probably write about some time soon.

Back to last night, it was fun. I loved putting things together for Bee. Knowing he "lacked" on certain things while growing up, I was adamant to fill in some of those in the years to come. I started with the "gelatin" last night. It's a long story. I made Bee a special gelatin recipe because he never had it while he was a kid. Just like the pasta it was such a long process that it took me the whole morning just to finish the whole thing. When my relatives started coming, I laid it down on the table and watched in consternation when the kids started to take slices off from it. Let's just say I placed in much effort on the presentation for Bolo's sake and was quite dismayed he wasn't there to see the whole thing -- or the thing still whole hehehe. I looked and looked for him and at the same time eyeing the gelatin slowly disfiguring right before my eyes as slices upon slices are being taken off of it. I found out he went out to buy some beer. I really had to track him down, urged him to come home in a hurry because I wanted him to see the gelatin in all its glory. He tried to comfort me by saying he had seen it already while it was still in the refrigerator when he got home from work. I told him that that was different because it was still in its molding. I wanted him to see it when it was finally laid down.

Now, looking back I could laugh at myself. It's pretty obvious that I was again at my OC tendencies last night. But really, I painstakingly cooked color upon color of gelatin, one by one, because I wanted to achieved the effect of having the colors shine through the white gelatin that would piece them all together. In my opinion (and I'm biased of course! hehehe) it truly was a work of art and its intended beneficiary was not there to see it for himself. So that kind of ruined it for me haha! Thus my urgency to have Bolo see it. Really, how passionate I could get over things sometimes! And i realized B is not really that particular about the details. I knew he had seen all the effort I put in and that's what he appreciated the most. It's not so much as a big deal to him whether I prepared him a pancake that's lopsided or the gelatin last night. In fact when I asked him to rub my back and complained how tired I was, he chided me for doing all the cooking when he wouldn't have minded if he had food for his birthday or not. But hey, it's in our genes, remember? hehe And that's just how things are. I know that birthday or not, I would still love to put things together for B. Because he had done so for me for a lot of times. So it really just flows naturally. He is kind to me, he takes care of me and I can't help it but reciprocate.

Happy birthday B! Wishing you all the best and all of God's blessings. You made me very happy when you told me you went to church, heard a bit of the Mass and lighted three candles for you, for me and for Baby Bullets. I would gladly cook the whole day for you again should you ask me to. Praying for a good year ahead for you and more years to come. Wab u! :)

Jeep Mishaps and On Baby Stewardship

Had quite interesting experiences with the public transport over at lunch today. The office is practically empty with most of the people gone on travel for two projects. There were only quite a handful of us around. Finding myself with no one to eat lunch with, I decided to go to Mama instead. I also have to hand her, her cellfone that she left at the house over the weekend. I also had to pay her the debt I owed her hehehe

Anyway, trying to avoid the scorching sun, I immediately boarded the jeep I saw that has the sign indicating my desired destination. Much to my dismay, it had to go to some other route, making my trip much longer. Not only that, it also turned out that it will not pass by Mama's school. In other words, I had to walk a few blocks - practically baking under the heat of the sun I tried to avoid - just to get to Mama. My lesson - one could not really escape from one's destiny hehe Yeah, I know, I ought to have read the signs more carefully.

After lunch, I decided to go to the bank to settle some credit card bills. I read the sign carefully alright and yet I ended up passing some other long route again. Really! Drivers should get sued for indicating they would pass by a certain street and not travel the whole length of it! Their signs should read - "Half of Ponciano St. cutting across Bonifacio St!" or something like that and not just "Ponciano." It's like false advertising really! Again I had to walk some 2 blocks to get to the bank just to be informed that their machine is out of order and that their cut off for accepting over the counter bill payments is until 10 a.m. only. Bah!

On my way to the bank, I passed by an elementary school. Just outside the school gates are several stalls selling some shiny stuff. I took a closer look to see what those shiny things were. They were mostly stickers of anime characters, candies, curls and other junk foods. There were also some bracelets and earrings in an array of colors. I thougt it wise of the sellers to choose fares that are packaged in shiny cellophanes and wrappers. They would certainly attract the kids' attention and would urge them to buy. Then it dawned on me. Pretty soon, and before I knew it, Baby Bullets would be attending school. And there would come a time that he would be subjected to these "shiny" things also. Pretty soon he'll be attracted to some shiny stuff or another. Soon, he'll have some wants and not all of them would be good for him. Yes, soon. As it is, B and I are already amazed at how the time flies.

Looking at Baby now, we are confronted with the fact that he is growing fast right before our very eyes. It used to be that his face looked pretty much innocent, so trusting and so meek. Now, his demeanor is much different. He had always been a happy baby but his energy is much more tamed when he was just a few months old compared to now. These days he's more alert, more curious of the things surrounding him. His eyes would often drift from one object to another. It would seem at times there's no containing him. We went to SM over the weekend to buy some groceries and his neck was practically craning, working over time to help him absorb everything surrounding him. It's cute really and I appreciate the fact that he appears curious of the world around him. It's telling me his brain is developing fine hehe and that he has this intelligence about him.


At SM Supermarket. See how he holds on to the cart? I was like just a jump away from where the cart is still, I was fearful he'd fall or something. But he looks so in control of the situation. One looking at him would readily assume he's more than a year old when he's barely 8 months.

Back to the "shiny" things, I bought this Gospel lullaby some two weeks ago for baby and there's this song there that literally brought me to tears. I've always known, long before I entertained the thought of getting married and having a kid of my own, that parents really do not "own" their children and that they are but just stewards. I knew that even before I read Gibran's "The Prophet" and that bit he wrote about "parenthood." But it's different to "know" a certain thing on the level of the intellect only (cranial) from really knowing it because you're experiencing it and you're feeling it right to your very soul. Hearing the song drove home the point of stewardship to me in a big way. It felt pretty much like such a truth poured over me to fill every bit and pore of my being. I guess I felt that way because now, I'm really experiencing motherhood firsthand. Now, I'm truly going through the process of loving this tiny, little person that had been entrusted to my care. Loving him in ways that would often seem immeasurable.

I've been wanting to post the song here for the past two weeks but I kept misplacing the cover of the CD that has the lyrics in it. This song is pretty much a prayer to me these days and I would like to share it with my "parent" friends :) I know they will identify with me. It was the chorus that really shook me. It made me realize Baby, indeed is such a precious life. He is filled with so much promise and potentialities. And that I would have a hand at that, at how he would turn out to be in the future. And it is such a big responsibility to contend with... And I feel pretty much "inadequate." I am not whole myself, I am still pretty much a work in progress. If anything, I will be growing along with him. And I feel humbled to be entrusted with such a responsibility...

Train Up This Child
Martin J. Nystrom
Integrity's Hosanna! Music

Help us to train up this child
In the way that he should go
So that he will not turn from You Lord
When he is old

Give us Your wisdom
And teach us the things that we need to know
To train up this child in the way
That he should go

Chorus

Lord, You have placed
A precious life in our hands
Now give us the grace
That he may be raised
According to Your plan


Lord, help us to train up this child
In the way that he should go...

Some More Legazpi Pictures and On Bicol Express!

For check-in please - laptop, baby, baby bag, backpack, trolley, and box. Hehehe on second thought, the first three items not included :) (Photo taken at the Manila Domestic airport on our way back home to Davao)


Bb Bullets: Ok, Nanay, I told you I prefer to be independent. (Photo taken on board PAL flight bound for Manila from Legazpi)


Bb Bullets (continuing the conversation): You see, Nanay, I'm quite capable to reflect on all my actions too. See here, I'm deep in thought.



Bb Bullets: Now, have I made myself clear, ha, Nanay?


Bb Bullets: Now, kindly hold this cap for me.


Bb Bullets: And leave my baby bag on the floor right there. I don't have a need for it at the moment.


Bb Bullets: Ay Nay, there's a cute co-passenger seated right behind you. He's friendly too. (Photo taken on our flight to Legazpi).


Tatay tending Bb Bullets at the Davao Airport while waiting for our flight to Manila.


Just came in from lunch. And of all places to sample Bicolano cuisine, it has to be here in Davao. Just had "kinunot" for lunch. It's a viand that is sort of the fish version of Bicol Express.

Now on Bicol Express, it had to take me all the way to Legazpi to learn that an authentic Bicol Express is comprised of pork cutlets stewed in coconut milk with chopped chili pepper in the equal amount (if not more than!) of the pork cutlets hehe. If you go to some restaurants here, their version of Bicol Express would be mixed vegetables in coconut milk with chopped chili peppers. And all this time I took that to be the real B.E. So imagine my amazement when we found out otherwise in Legazpi. With the pork thrown in into the dish I immediately knew I'd be going home without sampling any of the local food in Legazpi. Except the pili of course hehe. I was told that on the second day of our training, we had laing as one of the fares served to us. I was too busy on other things to have noticed. The hotel staff alredy knew of my food preferences so they would readily prepare a separate set of meal for me. Too bad they thought I wouldn't want to have some laing :(

So it was quite refreshing to chance upon authentic Bicolano cuisine over at the City Triangle earlier. I immediately liked kinunot at first sight. I mistook it to be some vegetable dish. It had some malungay leaves thrown in but it was basically fish cutlets stewed in coco milk with some amount of chopped chili peppers on it, pretty much like the B.E. When I saw the laing (with pork though) and the BE served the Legazpi way, I looked up to see what the stall's signage was. It read, "Sili't Gata, the Authentic Bicolano Cuisine" hehe Imagine my surprise. And delight! hehe Funny how ironic things could be sometimes huh? :)

Traveling Light with the Perfect Guide

Just came in from a meeting. We talked about some project concerns. Those concerns, thankfully, had been addressed pretty well. All had been settled. Not only that. I also came out of that meeting a little bit richer from the learning I have gained.

While wrapping up on our session, one person we’re with candidly shared some of his experiences at work while he was still starting out. Some of those where success stories of the things he had accomplished while doing community work. One of those stories pertain to his experiences with the Aeta-Manobos. He related how it was difficult to organize them given that they are basically nomadic in culture. He said that the Manobo’s do not accumulate assets. They would only keep to the basics. And basics spell out – one “caldero” for cooking their food and one “tabo” to use for drinking. That and nothing more. This, owing to the fact that they are constantly on the move. Accumulating assets more than that would have meant a cumbersome journey and they only meant to travel light.

That struck me. Yesterday, I’ve been basically bogged down by a lot of emotional baggage. Had had too many worries to contend with. Let’s just say I wallowed in uncertainties yesterday, not quite knowing whether I ought to move forward or to go try another path. It concerned my work really and some issues I’m having with it at the moment. Let’s just say that they were really unfounded worries, just some anxieties that I allowed to grow out of perspective in my head. And hearing about the Manobo’s and their habits of traveling light made me realize that traveling light can also be pretty much applied to one’s state of mind.

Carrying far too much baggage is tantamount to making your life’s journey far too complicated than it already is. It would be like putting in far too many suitcases on top of your head while you are trying to maneuver your way in life. I wonder how does one make sound decisions, when there are far too many obstructions covering your view?

Yesterday, my soul was not in peace. I allowed my fears and concerns to disconcert me. I was like trying to scare myself out of my own doing. It was such a heavy feeling to have. Today I am reminded that I needed to travel light. That I need not carry on far too many burdens. There’s no sense allowing my fear and uncertainties to unrest me. Today, I am reminded that all I really needed in life are simple things, enough to get me by. There’s no sense in making my life more complicated than it already is. It all boils down to choices really. Making the right ones that is. And at the moment, I’m opting to travel light. No more wallowing on uncertainties. Worries are far too heavy a burden to carry around all day. I really would just have to continue clinging on my faith - faith that God is in control and that He is sure to set things accordingly.

This morning, when I woke up, I felt the urge to read the Bible that had always been lying, seldomly opened, at my bedside table. And I did. Immediately, I felt God’s comfort as I read the first verse that I had come to. His message was clear, that He is always with me and that I am not alone in my personal battles. The comfort I had felt this morning was like a cloak that covered my entire being all through out today. And He did not just stop there. He peppered my day with learning and assurances from the conversations I’ve had with the persons I came in contact with today. Truly, He is a loving God and He watches over His flock quite tenderly and protectively. I could not thank Him enough.

I'm back!

After year of being grounded, B and I, finally was able to go to a trip together. Ah, with Bb Bullets in tow of course :) So in the afternoon of our anniversary, we packed our bags and headed to the airport.


Sleeping Baby at the airport . Taken just hours before our flight to Manila. Our flight was delayed so we practically sat in the airport for hours.


The anniversary thing was a blur altogether. We went to hear Mass at the Shrine and headed home to continue with our packing. The night before that, on the eve of the day itself, we spent it packing and arguing hehehe as to what to bring, etc. B had some red wine ready and some chips to sort of celebrate the eve of the day, but we ended up too exhausted to bother celebrating. We had realized one thing though, it really is tough to go traveling with a baby. Lots of things had to be considered. And, packed! We had to pack along his sterilizer, a mini electric thermos (in-case the hotel won't have any), and a bunch of clothes that would answer his any need – jackets, pajamas, and socks should it be cold and aircool sando’s and shorts should it be warm! Haaay! Hehehe Although we knew that we would have a need for it, we left his stroller home. As it is, we were already pretty much overwhelmed with the amount of luggage we had.


At the centenial airport waiting for our plane to Legazpi. (Hmm... ano to? Capital and small letter B? hehehe carbon copy eh no?)


The entire B family hehehe

We went to Legazpi. To see Mayon with our own two eyes hehehe Actually, I was on a business trip. I had work there. And since I would be gone for quite a while, it was of no question that Baby should tag along too. We could not imagine what his being apart from me could do to him. Although it would entail quite a huge amount, we were willing to spend it. We did think about it a lot though. In the end, B and I both agreed we are both investing on Baby’s emotional well-being. We could not subject him to a sudden separation from me, considering that he’s still breastfeeding and all. So off we went to Legazpi.


A view from the plane. Mt. Mayon's "blowing" chimney peak amidst the clouds.


Ah. Majestic Mt. Mayon

What greeted us when we’re about to land was magnificent, beautiful Mt. Mayon in all her morning glory. She stood there, welcoming us, standing erect as if to show us how formidable she is. She was simply awesome. I will always be loyal to Mt. Apo as she is my first love but Mt. Mayon was breath-taking just the same. If Apo’s strength is evident upon first glance, Mayon exudes femininity and grace when I first caught a glimpse of her. I considered it a good sign that she showed herself to us that day. We were told beforehand that she would usually “hide” herself from visitors.


Landing finally at Legazpi

After a week of working in the mornings and breastfeeding baby at night, we finally managed to go around Albay. As expected, we went to Cagsawa Ruins. It was such a pity that Mayon did not show herself to us at that time. She was partly covered in clouds. But once in a while the clouds would disappear and we would see her in all her glory. But soon enough, she’ll be covered again thus not allowing us to take any decent pictures of her in her totality. But it was fun just the same. At one point though, a guide kid there pointed to us the trickle of mudflow from Mayon’s peak. It pretty much looked like the size of a highway to us, traversing down Mayon’s slopes. The kid informed us that while it looked quite a “slow” trickle from where we are standing, in actuality, the mudflow is really descending at such a high speed. Huh! For a moment I almost wished that she would display a bit of her “fire” just as she had in one of the pictures the kid had showed us of the 1993 eruption. She might have heard me since back at the hotel, we were surprised and at the same time delighted by the “fireworks” that’s going on at her peak. We could see fiery lava trickling down from the peak. It was an awesome and exciting display. At one point I wanted to wish it will continue but immediately grew sober when I thought about the families that would be affected if indeed she would explode. It would have been a sight to behold but I’m willing to pass that up. Especially when a local informed us that the flights will be cancelled should Mayon erupt. Huh! We can’t have that.


The famous Cagsawa Ruins . With Juliet and Te Jean F.



The Three B's


Mayon in the backdrop


We also went to the Satellite Market where most of Bicol’s native products and delicacies (Pili nuts! Yum!) are showcased. The bags were great but B gave me a horrified look when I tried to purchase one for Mama. He said we could not possibly add more to our luggage.


Beautiful Daraga Church!


Ah, nice shot this one.



Ah, Father and Son :)

I particularly enjoyed our visit to the Daraga Church. It was old and beautiful. We almost passed it up and I’m glad Ms. Minda noticed it and we stopped. It was worth making a time for it. We also went to Bicol University, toured it a bit. We toured around Albay too and at Brgy. Estanza which provided us a good view of Mt. Mayon and the entire Legazpi City and gulf.

It was a fun trip, albeit a tiring one, having to mind Baby constantly. But his smiling face sure did make the trip special. It was his smile that erased all my exhaustions away.


Asus! Our "energizer" for the entire trip :)

Our Story

Tomorrow's going to be our anniversary. Imagine that. A year had passed ever since we had decided to make our lives more complicated hehehe Joke! I'd rather look at it as making our life more richer and fuller :) And yeah, more fun too! hehe

Below is an account of "our story" I wanted to post in here in view of tomorrow's "ocassion." I want to remind myself how we ever came to be... This was read during our wedding reception last year by a good friend, Anne. Thank you, Anne :) It went something like this...


On the evening of Nov. 29, 2001, Bolo and Rodilyn met for the first time. Only, they haven’t really noticed each other then. She went to Edge Outdoor Shop in Bajada to purchase a new pair of sandals she would be using for the 7th Mindanao Forum that will be held around Mt. Matutum in South Cotabato. Melai, her officemate and also a co-mountaineer, invited her to come along with some friends and Pastor and Mary Anne who were only sweethearts then.
Mary Anne was a classmate in a summer class during her first year in Ateneo. Pastor, she knew from her brief stint at wall climbing over at Torres. And so she accepted the invitation. When she made an inventory of her gears, she found out she is in need of a new pair of sandals. Melai offered to accompany her to Edge to purchase a new pair.

That’s when Bolo and Rodilyn met for the first time.

Bolo was the one who fitted in Rodilyn’s sandals for her. He first asked her to try on a size seven, hardly noticing that her feet were obviously small. She pointed out that fact to Bolo who, being a good salesman that he is, insisted that size seven give her enough room for comfort. To convince her further, he said that the size would allow her to use socks with the sandals should she want to. Unconvinced, Rodilyn asked for a size 5 and ½. As there had been none, she asked for a size 6. She tried on one, and being satisfied, concluded the sale and went home.

Both did not give each other a second look then. Rodilyn came for the sandals alone. Bolo, was only eager to make a sale and nothing more. Little did they know that fate had other plans for them. But here’s the catch, upon reaching home, Rodilyn found out Bolo gave her mismatching sandals. She had with her a size 6 for her left foot and a size 7 for her right! Obviously, Bolo made a mistake. He was probably distracted then and thus the error. Either that, or he was making sure Rodilyn will come back to the shop to make the switch. But upto this day, he denies having such intentions… As Rodilyn would have to leave that very dawn for South Cotabato and having no other pair of sandals to bring with her, she brought the pair anyway in case she needed them, mismatched and all.

At the forum, she found Rey there and informed him of the error. He advised her to just return the pair to the shop on her return to Davao. That’s what she did when she did went back to Davao. She returned to the shop 3 times but still got no replacement. There was no available size 6 for her. Getting tired of the whole thing, she requested Melai to do the switching for her as Melai sometimes drops by the shop on her free time. That was December of 2001. Let’s leave it at that. But take note of the sandals as this would play a very important role in their meeting each other again.

On to their second meeting. Again, this time, they hardly noticed each other. In fact, neither knew that the other existed. The sandals incident was entirely forgotten. And neither could have recognized each other have they bumped each other on the street. Their second meeting was on March of 2002. Melai, Rodilyn and Mary Anne teamed up to join the all-women team segment of a mini-adventure race organized by First Peak and Edge for the celebration of "Araw ng Dabaw." It was all for fun and for the experience for the three of them. To prepare for the race, Melai and Rodilyn would diligently jog at PTA grounds everyday after office hours. Once or twice, Bolo was said to have joined them. But Rodilyn had other friends with her and so she hardly noticed him, if at all. Neither did Bolo paid her any attention. He was friendly with another team.

On the day of the race itself, Bolo was the one assigned in one of the CPs of the race, particularly at the Caltex Gas station in Ma-a. Rodilyn’s team were the second of the women’s team to have arrived there. But they were able to leave the CP ahead of the 1st team as they were able to answer the riddle immediately. It was Rodilyn who answered the riddle so she really came face to face with Bolo then. Still, hardly any spark flew. Rodilyn was intent on the race. As she was answering the riddle, her mind had already been on what awaits them at the next Control Point. As for Bolo, he was busy performing the task assigned to him. And there were other female participants then. And, Rodilyn hardly stood out. To him, she was just another race participant.

The race ended with the team of Melai, Mary Anne and Rodilyn placing third, over-all in the women’s team. Bolo and Rodilyn again had the chance to be together during the awarding ceremony held in the evening after the race. But again, they hardly noticed each other. In fact, as this photo shows, they were really close to each other then but neither of them paid any attention to the other. This “not-noticing-each-other” routine, however, is understandable as both are very much into relationships. Rodilyn was nurturing a 2-year long distance relationship. Bolo, on the other hand, also has a girlfriend – and several flings – at that time.

Then Months passed. Rodilyn bought the sandals at the Edge on November of 2001. The race took place March of 2002. It wasn’t until June 2002, after 7 months! that Rodilyn finally got the replacement for her mismatched sandals, thanks to the efforts of Melai. But the replacement came just at the right time as DAP, Rodilyn’s office, was due for a trip to Boracay that month. She needed her sandals then. Over at Boracay, the sandals gave Rodilyn numerous cuts. While the fit is just right for her feet, the straps were a bit tight. Totally unaware that they were adjustable, she endured the pain all throughout. And then they all went back to the office. So Rodilyn went back to her old routine -- work and occasional side trips when her schedule allows it.

Then came July. Fresh from her Luzon trip, Rodilyn, with Melai, Chona, and Mamay decided to visit Epol in Marilog. Rodilyn had already been there on several occasions. But the mention of “Sandawa Falls,” made the trip appealing to her. She had never been to the falls yet.

The trip took two weeks to finalize. There were some work concerns. And there was difficulty in looking for a guide to take them to the falls. Melai had already gone there but could not vouch she could find the falls on her own. And so they needed a guide. Since Melai frequents Edge and had several friends there, she volunteered to take care of the matter. She then made some arrangements with Dong Estapia who first volunteered to be their guide. But something else came up. All of a sudden he had other plans. Or perhaps, it was fate that had other plans. So instead of Dong, Bolo became their guide then.

So on the last weekend of July they scheduled their trip to Epol. On that very weekend, fate had decided that it is high time that Rodilyn and Bolo start paying each other attention – some real good attention as they would have to spend the whole day together. Their hardly-noticing-each-other, one-doesn’t-know-the-other-existed drama is bound to change after that weekend.

That week, Rodilyn had to be in Carrascal in Surigao del Sur for some work concerns so it meant she would have to go home on Friday to make it to Epol the next day. She was tired from the long trip and hardly had any sleep. Still, she woke up at 3 a.m. the next day to be on time for their 4:30 a.m. rendezvous at Ecoland Terminal. Melai had informed her that they had to be early to have enough time to enjoy Epol. So right on the dot, Chona, Melai, Mamay and Rodilyn met at Ecoland Terminal at 4:30 a.m. of July 27, 2002.

Then lo and behold, there was hardly any sign of Bolo. He was late. Awfully late. Rodilyn was feeling a bit cross already, having had little sleep and having to wake up real early only to wait for a very late guide. It turned out that Bolo forgot about the trip and Melai had to call him to wake him up that morning. It wasn’t until 6:30 a.m. that Bolo arrived at the terminal. They immediately boarded the next available bus. Rodilyn took one look at Bolo then slept the entire trip. She was told later on that he had been real noisy the whole time, telling jokes and making fun of some of the passengers there. But Rodilyn was totally unaware of the whole thing. All she could think of was catching up on her sleep, which she did. It wasn’t until they were already at their desired stop that she woke up.

Then their adventure began… in the beginning, Rodilyn hardly paid any attention to Bolo. To her, he was just a kid who was there to take them to the falls and back. But perhaps Sandawa Falls worked their magic on them. Or perhaps it was the sandals that worked its magic on them. Having had little time to buy a new pair, Rodilyn again made use of the sandals for the trip.

Mindful of the cuts it had given her in the past, she wore the sandals with socks to protect her feet. They were already at the falls when Bolo noticed Rodilyn’s sandals and her socks. Quite tactlessly, he pointed out to Rodilyn that the socks made the get-up “baduy.” In other words, he was short of telling Rodilyn she was “baduy.” Rodilyn was unmindful of the criticism, however. She did not take it against him. Instead, she pointed out to him that the sandals were giving her cuts. And as if to counter his barb, she told him she now knows why the sandals are called “Sandugo,” kasi raw pala, dumudugo ang paa pag sinusuot na siya.

Then Bolo, ever loyal to their product, pointed out to Rodilyn that she should have adjusted the straps when she found out it was tight for her feet. Rodilyn smiled sheepishly. She did not know it was possible to adjust the straps. Then quite gallantly, Bolo helped Rodilyn take off her sandals and adjusted the straps for her. He asked her to try it on again. He was right. The sandals are now more comfortable to wear even without the socks. Then they all made their way to white cave. Bolo then started being chummy with Rodilyn. He walked with her on their way to the cave. At one point, he taunted a carabao and both of them were chased by it…

That’s how everything started. From then on, Bolo would look for a reason to be by Rodilyn’s side. He would constantly engage her in a conversation – talking about anything, from soccer to climbing to caving to almost anything. On their way home after spending the whole day in Epol, he found a way to sit by her side on the bus. Then like a kid he repeatedly said he wished the bus would have a flat tire so it would take them much longer to get to Davao. Di pa man, and kakakilala pa lang, humihirit na si Bolo. He was so charmed by Rodilyn. (Asus! This part I do not quite buy! hehe) Rodilyn, on the other hand, was only confused with how Bolo was acting up. She could not understand his sudden enthusiasm to be with her. She just shrugged it off as his being a kid – being playful and all.

When they reached Davao, they had dinner and decided to go home. Rodilyn was puzzled when Bolo offered to accompany her home since he lived somewhere close there too. She reminded him that he had told them he lived in Matina. And she lived in Panacan. That hardly equates to being “somewhere close.” Still Bolo found a way. He said they had a house in Buhangin too, so he’d go home there instead. Eager to just get home and rest, Rodilyn did not argue anymore. On their way there, he started asking for her phone numbers. Wary of his over-eagerness, Rodilyn told him she forgot her cell phone number as it was a new sim. But it was not easy to discourage Bolo. In the end, she gave him her phone number at home. In her mind, she is hardly home anyway, being at work and constantly on a travel, so he would soon tire calling and not catching her.

Then he dropped a bombshell on her. He asked her for a permission to court her. Ganun kabilis si Bolo. He did not waste any time. Rodilyn was taken aback. After all, she just met him and he hardly knew her. And the more she grew wary of him. She told him down pat -- she already has a boyfriend. And she thought that settled it. But Bolo just shrugged it off. He told her that if that’s the case, then he was content to win her friendship instead. So Rodilyn went home thinking the whole affair weird. But she was amused by it just the same. She thought that would end it all. That she would not see Bolo again. But how wrong she was.

Bolo proved insistent. Upon reaching home the next day after office, her Papa informed her that someone called looking for her. And that the same person had already called thrice. And that that person was a “he.” There was no censure though. Her father did not appear mad or something. Rodilyn just shrugged it off. While she suspected it was probably Bolo, she did not think much about it. But Bolo proved ingenious. He found a way to ask for her cell phone number. He first texted Melai for it. Then Melai asked Rodilyn for a permission to give it. Rodilyn found the whole thing amusing. And so she relented. That started a never ending barrage of “miscalls.”

Since it was hardly practical to text or call Rodilyn often, Bolo would content himself with constantly sending Rodilyn miscalls. Naging tampulan sa office tuloy nila Rodilyn. It had become a common joke in the office that they were beginning to memorize Rodilyn’s ringtone as it would constantly ring at intervals the whole day. Yes, the WHOLE DAY. It was Bolo’s way of making his presence felt constantly. Wala pa kasing landline noon sa Edge. Kung meron, malamang, tinawagan niya na si Rodilyn noon sa office. So miscalls na lang ang ginagawa niya.

Then, biglang nauso ang drop call. Ang swerte ni Bolo. It worked to his advantage. Since Rodilyn had to be constantly on travel because of work, it meant he would not see her often. So he took advantage of drop calls. Rodilyn would be on a travel but Bolo would find a way to contact her. So as not to disturb her while working, he would call her at night, making use of drop calls. Maalala nyo pano magwork yung drop call? Tatawag ka, say something for a few seconds then end the call para walang bawas sa load. That meant, he would call her ever so often in order to manage a full conversation. Tatawag siya, mag-hehello, end the call. Then, tatawag uli para magsimula ng kwento then end the call ulit para di mabawasan ang load. Tapos tatawag ulit… paulit-ulit. They would do that the entire evening till dawn.

Para di makaistorbo sa kasama niya noong officemate na si Jean Radoc, Rodilyn would have to hide underneath the pillow just to accept his calls. She would turn off the ringer of her phone and set it to vibrate mode para di maingay yung pag-dro-drop call ni Bolo. Yes, she was accepting his calls. Little, by little, he had endeared his way to her. His persistence was starting to work its magic.

But the more they had gotten close when a tragedy struck her family. Coming home from travel, Rodilyn found out her father was hospitalized. It all came as a shock to her. If anyone was sickly in the family, it was her Mama, not her father. He was hospitalized for 9 days. And Rodilyn was torn between wanting to give in to the weakness and the worry she was feeling, and that of being strong for her mother. It was putting much strain on her. It was something she had difficulty handling. Her cousins were all working out of Davao. There was no one to turn to. She could not cry to her mother as she felt she had to be strong for her. Also, her Dad’s medicines were quite hard to find. Kailangan niyang suyurin ang buong Davao halos para lang makita yung gamot na yon. That’s when Bolo proved handy. He would tirelessly accompany her just to look for the medicine. That’s when they had gotten close.

When Rodilyn's Dad died, every night Bolo would be at the wake. The wake lasted two weeks and Bolo came every night. Rodilyn was busy with family and friends so there were times she could not talk to him or entertain him during the wake. Still, every night he would come, sitting at the back, as if to just assure Rodilyn that he is just right there should she need him. He even helped during the internment. Yet even then, there was nothing but friendship between them. There was no relationship yet but the appreciation for each other was definitely there.

After all that, Bolo continued to court Rodilyn. He would bring her lunch, fruits, even ukay-ukay. Magdadala siya ng ulam when Rodilyn would have difficulty securing one for herself. By then she had already been on a strictly vegetarian diet. No meat, not even fish. So it was difficult buying food for herself. Knowing this, he would thoughtfully bring her food in the office when he can, which was quite often. Even at noon when the sun would be at its fiercest, Bolo would take his bike and ride all the way to DAP just to bring Rodilyn ulam.

And he did not stop there. When he found out her reason for switching to the diet, he made an effort to switch to a vegetarian diet too. So the meat-eater Bolo became a semi-vegetarian. He could not do away with the fish. While there was no formal commitment yet, they had committed themselves to keeping each other healthy. And everything just flowed from there. Before they knew it, they were already having a relationship and being constantly together when neither is on a travel. When one of them on travel, they would keep in touch by calling and texting each other.

Rodilyn introduced him to her set of friends and he had become a fixture to the group, accompanying them to travels, outing and other activities. It was easy to like him as he is kind, helpful and fun to be with. But it is his regard for Rodilyn that is very much apparent for all to see.

During climbs, instead of bringing his usual light pack, Bolo could be seen carrying a very tall, very compact backpack that he would often get teased. The reason for it is that he would be bringing with him as much as four jackets and two trekpants for Rodilyn knowing she is ”lamigin.” In all of those trips he would be bringing most of the load – grocery and all -- giving Rodilyn just enough load to carry.

They were teammates too. Though he wouldn’t want to participate anymore in some contests and knowing full well, teaming up with her meant matatalo siya since she’s a bit fragile for all those activities, still he would team up with her.

He has a passion for winning, still he would give in to her and team up with her knowing full well she doesn’t know how to swim. He would rather look out for her safety than win. Bolo understood Rodilyn’s passion for life and experience and so he supported her when he can. He understood her wanting to explore her physical limits and so he provided his physical strength where she is weak. And it worked both ways too. Rodilyn knew and understood Bolo’s passions. She understood his love for sports and adventure since she shared it also. She also understood his having such low self-esteem which he quite successfully hide by his being boisterous and fun to be with, and so she encouraged him constantly. She gives her support as much as he supported her. While he often spoils her, she does her share of spoiling him too.

But it’s not all a bed of roses for them though. They had their differences, lots of them in fact, that is also why they would fight a lot. They would often fight over the littlest of things. Still, their’s had been a wonderful “teamship” in almost three years of a shared relationship.

Now, they have decided to take a step further. They have decided to team up for yet another adventure – that of a married life and building a family. Just like any adventure, they face certain hurdles up ahead. There would be several of them up ahead. Still, let us be one with them in hoping that the teamwork that had sustained both of them all these years would be the same teamwork that would sustain them in what they are yet to face up ahead.

Let us all pray and hope that they would not forget what made them decide to pursue a joined life together, in the first place – that is their love and honest concern and regard for each other…

There were hurdles alright. Lots of them. There were times we came real close to calling it quits. But the "teamship" prevailed. Because our love for each other prevailed. In the course of that one year, I have seen the worst (maybe not yet) of Bolo and he had seen mine. There were times when one could feel the strongest dislike to the other. But at all times, the love prevailed.

I love you B. Happy Anniversary. It had been the most "stressful" hehehe yet the most fun year yet. We had been grounded for a year, having baby and all. I guess that was also the root of the tension between us -- being tied when what bounded us in the past was the freedom we both enjoyed. We had always been free-spirited. Faced with all of those responsibilities, I guess we both got a bit of a culture-shock hahaha! But little by little, we are learning the stroke. And though we don't quite synchronize at times, we always did make good music together. Thank you so much for continuing to be my strength when I was weak. Thank you for being my sweet "alalay" for the past 12 months.

Thank you for the intimate conversations that filled my spirit to the brim. Thank you for satisfying both my external and internal needs. Thank you for feeding not just my body but my spirit as well. Without your having to make an effort, by simply being who you are, you inspire me endlessly.... I could not thank you enough, there are a million other reasons why I should thank you. On top of this is how you are to our son. But this I could tell you, though at times I may not think so? I know that there could have not been the perfect partner for me than you. Love u ulit B. And as you sometimes say -- "consumingly."

Yaya

Yeah. We now have a yaya who officially started to work for us two weeks ago. Earlier, I was nursing baby when I noticed he would stop feeding only to crane his neck and look for his "yaya." That broke my heart.

Yaya's first few days had me a bit bothered already. Seeing her playing with him, had me seeing myself withdrawing inside, feeling a bit jealous. I knew it would only take a little while before Baby would start including her in his circle of trust. There used to be just two members in that circle - B and I. Okay, make that three - Mama, whom he would readily outstretch his hands upon seeing her, begging to be picked up. Just three. With yaya in the picture, that makes four. And I'm feeling a bit jealous at the thought of him bestowing such a "privilege" to persons other than us.

Hmm... now why is that? I don't know. Maybe I just want to cement that bond between us, make it a bit stronger before letting on others in the picture. Is that a bit selfish of me? Well, maybe. But Bolo and I had always felt that we couldn't trust anyone to care for baby in the degree that we do. I mean, I could breathe easier in the office knowing he is with his Tatay, whom I know has his best interest at heart. I know B feels the same way about me. But a stranger? I'm praying that she will also have a bit of "malasakit" that we have for our son. And I'm wishing too that Baby would not feel closer to her than with me. I hope continuing to nurse him would ensure that I'll still be on top of his list of those in his circle of trust hehehe Selfish, am I?