Gabi didn't make it in his bid to join the Student Council for next school year. And this despite all his hard work in making his campaign materials and miting de avance speech.

He was disappointed. But he didn't want others to notice. I felt so bad for him.

He even wanted to go home early from the Year End celebrations because I guess, he didn't want to hear the official votes announced. He just wanted to go home. And lick his wounds perhaps, in private.

But he did have a request: he wanted to have merienda first in his favorite KFC.

And as he wolfed down the second of his customary three piece original recipe chicken, I finally got the courage to ask him how he felt about the loss.

"I'm okay, Papa. At least I didn't have to go up the stage with all the winners."

He then smiled and quickly turned to devour the last piece of his comfort food.

It was then that I too felt a bit better.

"Yes, my son, life has its fair share of losses and disappointments." I wanted to tell him.

"And we must all learn that it's not the end result but the effort and the struggle that ultimately counts," I would have added.

"As long as we try our best and have the right intention, we are already winners."

I didn't tell him this anymore. I guess he already knew this.

I just smiled at him. And proceeded to finish my own recovery meal.

Kalihim

Gabi told me last Friday that he was running for Secretary (Kalihim) for his school's student council and asked for advice on how to run his campaign.

I gently told him not to take politics too seriously and that the important thing was to always be himself.

This campaign poster is the product of our little talk.

My Love, On Her Birthday

Last Saturday, on the eve of her birthday, she cooked a delicious Japanese spread for close to 30 family members. Today for her birthday, Patty asked to dine in her favorite side-of-the-road ihawan and turo-turo to feast on inihaw na baboy and pancit bihon! This is so Patty!

Happy birthday my dear, Patricia Bautista-Mercado.

I thank God every day for you.

I thank you for your simplicity and cheerfullness. For bringing balance to me who tends to worry too much and over analyze and complicate everything.

Thank you for your generosity and spirit of service. Not only to your big family and close friends but also to my family, most especially my Mom.

And thank you for your patience and love. Especially for old grumpy me. smile emoticon

I love you, my dear Patty. And I thank you for being you.

Happy New Year!

Patty and the kids, who contributed the cash gifts they received for the holidays, surprised me with this magnificent view, and a three day stay at our favorite hotel in the city.

What a way to start 2015!

I adore my family!

Here's to more love, more family, and more surprises this year. smile emoticon