For the World's Greatest Mom

Happy Birthday Mom!
September 30, 2006

Mom,

Happy 55th birthday! Last Friday, i can't wait to get home to get you that foot stool as my birthday present to you. I know you've been making "parinig" along with your complains about having foot aches everytime you get home from work. And i just got you one. I can't forget the smile you had when i got home with it last Friday night. Now, you can already rest your weary feet while watching TV everynight. It was supposed to buy you the softer one, but i decided that the basketball-ish design was cooler. Don't worry, i'll buy another one for you on the 15th.

Mom, i know you could be happier with Kai around. She was your Little Princess. I know you miss her so much already the same way we do. But let Koki, Aye, Aning and me fill that emptiness in our own ways. We may not give the same joy Kai used to radiate but we're trying to make you happy by our mere presence. I still can't imagine how you single-handedly supported the whole family when Dad passed away 16 years ago. I was too young then to ask that same question.

THANK YOU MOM. I've been dying to tell you that. Even though you were only present in my 1st grade and high school graduation, i know i was happier seeing your big smile with all the medals and awards i brought home with me. THANK YOU, for still cooking dinner for me even if i endlessly curse at the mere smell of the vegetable dishes. But i love your dishes, nonetheless. THANK YOU for understanding me everytime i cook sunny side ups and fried rice for my dinner. I do feel bad when i eat dinner alone, but i understand that you always go to bed early, as always. THANK YOU MOM. I still have a million thank you's comin but i'm in a little hurry. hehe.

We, your kids, have always been blessed and proud having you as our mom. For the GREATEST MOM IN THE WHOLE WIDE WORLD, we love you so so so much.

Sweet cakes and milkshakes,
Jose Paulo

Remember to breathe.