My baby no more....

For the first time in 28 years, my brothers (twins) celebrated their birthday away from home, they are with their respective lady loves in the beautiful island of Boracay. Sadly, me and my sister are not part of the entourage.

I can't help but feel nostalgic, it's been 28 years since they came into our lives. These two cute baby boys brought so much joy to our family and even to our relatives. A week after a tragic flood in our hometown the twins were born. While we were coping from the destruction came a double blessings. Being a doting big sister, I tried everything from changing diapers to washing (feeding) bottles, feeding, bathing, and putting them to sleep. 

When we lost our mother 13 years ago, being the first born I was tasked to look after the family, including raising two boys. I was scared of the kind of man they will become without our mother around. But I believe because they love our mother so much, they managed to make her proud. Now having a career of their own, they made decisions for themselves. And me, as a big sister is very proud that they can somehow stand on their own feet. Maybe they still need a little of help and advice here and there but the fact that they can now plan for their future is good enough for me.

It is not easy to let go of what I got used to. Me, the big sister will always have an opinion with their affairs whether they need it or not. I got mixed emotions, maybe if Nanay is still around she will also feel the same. The twins, they are my baby no more!

credit to the owner of this picture

3 easy steps in finding Mr Right

One thing I am proud of with the company I am connected to is the homey feel I get. We are like one big happy family while in a project and even after it has been completed. We recently reconnected with a colleague, from another team, whom we've worked with in a previous project. Since she recently got married, and she admitted with dignity and pride that she actually made the first move, the single girls asked for her advice on hooking up with a future hubby.

The room was filled with laughter as we exchange banters. It was such a delight to have her around again. So I'm sharing here her tips in finding Mr Right. 

First be his friend. If you have long time friends keep them. But if you'll make new friends, choose the ones with potential, the prospect materials. If you don't see a guy to be a future boyfriend, don't waste your time. "Sayang ang investment," is how she actually said it.

credit to the owner of this photo

Have the same interest. If he's into sports, be sporty. If he likes to eat out by all means eat and forget about diet. In short, be his partner and spend time with him. "Kahit hindi mo bet... i-bet mo na."

credit of the owner of this photo

Grab each chance to be near him. According to this funny girl, she once fainted and his friend (now her husband) helped her and actually carried her home. So she had this habit of passing out every once in a while. When you caught his attention, grab the chance to be close to him. "Pag kumagat na sa pain, sunggaban agad!"

credit to the owner of this photo

Okay, I don't know how to fake passing out without my pride getting in the way. Maybe my being too independent is obviously conflicting with these tried and tested tips. Oh well, hopefully someone out there thinks an independent woman is interesting too. I will keep my fingers crossed.

What my Tattoo says about Me

Have you ever thought of having a tattoo? In this day and age sporting a tattoo is no longer limited to ex-cons and drug addicts. Tattoo is an art and has since become a fashion statement of sort.

I admire Tattoo artists. I believe they have God given talents that need to be expressed and nurtured. Back when I was working in HK (2008) for a project, I got hooked with Miami Ink, then LA ink and even London Ink on TLC. Each tattoo has a story to tell, and the artists showed their amazing talents on TV. With such admiration I came to a decision to have my own tattoo for my 40th birthday.

Fast forward to 2012, after browsing over several pictures of tasteful tattoo designs, I decided to have mine behind the ear. I was warned that the spot I chose will be very painful for a first timer like me, but my decision was firm... a 3-flower tattoo behind my right ear. I chose a reputable tattoo studio (P&P tattoo) because I want to be inked by one of the best artists in Manila. 

Tattoo by Myke Sambajon

While the needle is painstakingly poking my skin I had a few realization. 

Having a tattoo is a decision. It is not for people who cannot decide on their own. When you make the decision to have one, you'll have it for life. Unlike a spouse who might leave you, your tattoo stays permanently.

Pain is great reminder. Some lessons in life are learned through pain. In this lifetime I had experienced different levels of pain, and my tattoo simply reminds me that I am standing strong because I managed to keep up with the pain.

Responsibility. I am responsible for my own actions and life decisions, and having this mark is one of them.

My tattoo has no special meaning, but as for me it symbolizes independence and responsibility, or maybe this is my way of expressing I am tough but cool at the same time.