i miss you...

i dreamt of ammah (my grandma from my dad's side) last night...

in the dream, we were lying in bed, hugging each other, i was lying my head on her shoulder. she started to talk about a cookbook that was about to be published by one of his sons (she specifically said son.. not kids). the cookbook includes stories of how she started to enjoy cooking and memories of her in the kitchen with her kids or grandchildren. then she started to tell me one of the stories... it was when she cooking with her son, they forgot to add sugar... as a result, the food turned out to be salty. we started to laugh. then i looked at her touched her face and her ears and told her that i love her and that i missed her. she smiled back at me...

ammah was known for her cooking, for her love to go to the market. i remember she had her own small tv in her room and each day she would watch (and wouldn't - couldn't miss) "Wok with Yan". i remember she would run from the kitchen and back to the room in between commercial breaks.

it has been four years since ammah passed away... in the dream i wanted to ask her how she is. why she left so soon... but seeing her smile, seeing how lively she looks... she looked younger and there were twinkle on her eyes. i know she's in a good place... i know she is having a great time with angkong.

Ten Things We Love About You

1. You make us smile (with your corny jokes, english-tagalog-ilonggo sentences).
2. You tried and learned to use YM, email and skype (even if you continue to call it "skyfone").
3. Your generosity (a mom who gives out presents to other moms...).
4. Your childishness (i think you're on your third or fourth childhood!).
5. Your unending support whatever we do (morally, physically, financially and emotionally).
6. Your pride on our accomplishments (big or small, they are all momentous for you).
7. Your own little ways that make us feel that it is Christmas all-year round (thank you, mom!)
8. Your sacrifices that made us all better persons.
9. Your forgiving heart.
10. Your unconditional love.

Another Mother's Day without me by your side, at least, JL and Jen are there to give you the hugs and kisses you deserve, especially on this special day.

I know there are still obstacles to hurdle, sacrifices to be made...but what keeps me strong is your constant reminder that you love us always, and forever.

You may not be the perfect sister, you may not be the best daughter, you may not be the greatest friend, but for us, you'll always be the perfect, best and greatest mom!

Love you with all our hearts! Happy Mom's Day, Mommy!