Happy 2nd Birthday Cindy Elaine!

We had fun celebrating my daughter's birthday at La Vista Resort, Pansol, Laguna last June 1, 2011 with friends from way before and those that have been part of my life only recently. It may seem odd that I am supposed to celebrate my daughter's birthday with kids her age right? Well, custom dictates such but I do not see it that way.

I celebrated her birthday with my friends since they have become important part of our lives. I know, and it has been tested through time and again that these are the types of friends who will never fail me. Although it is my daughter's birthday, we have come together to celebrate her life and friendship all at the same day. I know that these are the people that genuinely care for us.

Harsh as the truth may be, why would I spend thousands for food and feed people who stab me behind my back, or do not care for me and my daughter at all? What is the point of inviting the people from my neighborhood when they look at me with judgmental eyes? Why spend much for catering and entertainment with the people who attend your parties just because they happen to be your neighbors? Why provide a venue for neighbors to come together and enjoy an afternoon filled with rumor-mongering? Well most people think that it’s automatic.

I invite people that count, and people that I can trust. In my family, we do not attend parties just because we were invited. We do not waste our time. Why mingle with people that we are not comfortable with? So that you can boast later on that you had a grand party for your child? I call that stupid extravagance.

I keep things simple and straightforward. I will do what I feel is right, and the decision to do an out of town celebration for my daughter's birthday was a brave one. I did not conform to the usual norms. Guess what? It’s great to be with people who loves you, appreciates you and respects you for a change.

Even for a day I felt that there were no prying eyes around, and no wagging tongues that talk behind my back. It was a fun day, with lots of good food, videoke, swimming and good laughs. Thank you my friends Chin, Bob, Oman, Ryan, Judy and Robert. When I literally had nothing at one point of my life, you guys came to my rescue but just in different ways and different times. You guys know the real me, the feelings that I have and the hardships that I've been through. Love you guys!

To Ninang Kris, thank you for the gifts and for never forgetting Cindy on her day. To the tropang tigasin Phen, Traez and Daddy Jun I know that you guys are always with me in heart and in spirit.

To my family who has been with me through hell and back, thank you guys for loving me and Cindy. I know that with you I am never judged, but loved. Mom, Dad and Sha and Sean, thanks much.

Sa nag sponsor nang cake na ito (you know who you are but journalism ethics dictates that I keep my sources confidential, hehehe!) THANK YOU from me and Cindy.

To Chin and BOb, thank you sa gifts, foods and for helping me out with the venue. It was a refreshing experience....

TO Ryan, Judy and Robert, I know that even through your hectic schedules you still gave us your time. Salamat guys for the gifts and the good laughs!