It was exactly a week ago when we rushed Moochy to Vet’s Nook, after 2 days of no food intake. Good thing though, Mom kept him hydrated. I almost cursed the first vet who did nothing else but say that he would be cured by contrimixazole. My instinct wouldn’t let me believe, so I decided to bring him to another vet who was recommended by a good friend.

First thing I know upon arriving there, we did the right move. Moochy was promptly attended by Dr. Enrico, Moochy’s attending vet, and a nurse. Picture an emergency room scenario. That’s the most accurate description of what they did to Moochy.

I almost cried when his vet told us that his body temperature was dropping. He was explaining a lot of things that at the moment, I couldn’t really process and understand, because all I want to hear from him is that Moochy would be fine in no time.

With heavy hearts, we left Moochy there. We were left with no assurance that Moochy would recover, or when he would recover, or if he would ever recover.

I could hardly remember a day when I was able to catch a good sleep. I couldn’t concentrate on my work, and all. Whenever and wherever I see a dog, I remember him and I would silently weep. Some might think that this is too much, but when you love someone or something, I guess you would understand.

Mom was able to visit him almost every day, while I could only wish I could do the same. I prayed hard for his recovery. I even asked some to pray for him too. I couldn’t stop myself from being emotional all the time he was sick, my family had never seen me cry hard for someone or something, except for him. Other relatives would even say, there are a lot of dogs out there and we could always get a new one. That’s so easy to say, they really don’t understand.

His second day of being away was the hardest, he still gives no sign of any recovery. The news really broke my heart. His vet told us to give him more time, they still haven’t figured out what really is making him weak. Moochy haven’t taken any food yet, and still keeps on vomiting. He was given a dextrose, to atleast, keep him hydrated. I almost lost hope.

Until Thursday came, his vet sent me a message telling me that Moochy ate a bit. And if he continue to eat and stop to vomit, he could be released in two days. Finally, there’s already an improvement. I never ceased to pray. I was so happy to hear the news. And I am more than happy that I was not alone in this phase, Mom would even ask us if we already prayed for Moochy. Friends would also ask about Moochy’s condition. And that is exactly where I drew my strength from—I felt that they really do love Moochy too.

Later that night, we were told that Moochy removed his dextrose. I smiled, I knew he was recovering. Moochy’s fond of removing anything you try to put to his body, except for his clothes. I attempted more than a hundred times to put a clip on his hair, and he wouldn’t let me. So yes, that’s a sign that he’s already recovering.

Then came Friday, his vet said that we could fetch him up on Saturday. I almost jumped for joy! Finally. Saying I missed him so much is an understatement.

Mom and I kept on bugging his vet to release him early in the morning. We were up by 7am, we waited ‘til 8am for the nook’s opening, and then we called. Good thing, his vet allowed us to pick him up early.

I should have confined Moochy in a private room in La Salle. Kidding. But yes, almost the same rate— do the math. And like newly released in-patient people, he was also given a lot of medications to take for his full recovery.

I am certain that Moochy listened when I talked to him and said that he should be strong, and that he should fight, and not leave me. I saw him nod when a tear from my eye landed on his face.

Right now, Moochy’s on my lap, sleeping. I am actually more than thankful for having him back. I couldn’t thank God enough for giving me another chance to be more loving and caring to Moochy.

This is already his second life— and I wouldn’t let it be a waste.

What happened to Moochy taught me a lot of things. That is, to not let a day pass without letting the ones you love feel loved, to not let them be taken for granted, and to spend as much time as you could with them. It also made me understand what mothers feel about their children. It is only now that I’ve learned to appreciate all the panic moments, the sermons, the warnings, and all. Literally, I was never a mother. But being the one who bought and raised Moochy, in one way or another, I consider myself one of them. Figuratively and emotionally, I am. And no one could ever take that away from me.

I am more than grateful for having Moochy— someone who’s been the source of our joy and happiness.

For the best playmate, best listener, best stress-reliever, best alarm clock, best comedian, best actor, most effective happy pill, most charming, most loving, most affectionate, most sensitive, most tactful, most lazy big-ass partner I’ve ever had, I love you— more than words could ever say and more than I could ever make you feel.

Moochy upon his confinement

Second day in Vet’s Nook

Moochy upon his release, 1 week and 3 days with no bath, still a cutey

These are the moments I would never trade for anything else

I just heard the news from my US employer— my supposed start date of April 1 was moved to an earlier date, exactly a month earlier. 

At the moment, I really don’t know what to feel. I’m excited about the new experience yet sad because in a few, I’ll leave the people whom I love dearly. It might be a short time, but for someone who is very attached to others, it would definitely be a big deal. I’m pretty sure I’ll cry a bucket of tears continuously for weeks before and after leaving.

I have a lot of things to fix— visa processing, my resignation, my housing there, and so much more. And the hardest part, is to condition myself.

Dad just left for an emergency work load. He’s the one supposed to fix my papers since I still have work and now, I don’t know how I would be able to juggle things. I don’t know how would I say goodbye to my office mates. I might not be happy with what I’m doing but I’ve learned to love the people here.

I worry about my Mom and my sis. They’re like kids who are dependent to me. I am too, with them, actually. It would surely be hard for all of us. But I know, they would definitely be happy for me.

And then, my partner— who is actually with me in this. It would surely be hard for both of us. But I believe in us. I’m sure love would save us from all the sadness.

***

I had my whole life planned. And then— I met this very special person, I forgot about everything.

I started from scratch again. I’m glad I actually didn’t felt the need for revisions— everything’s new.

And I’m more than happy that everything’s going smoothly as planned and I’m getting things one step at a time.

***

In 10 years, I would be managing my own restaurant. Details are already written, I just need to make it happen.

And I’m taking my first step towards making THAT dream a reality.

It would be tough but it would definitely be worth all the hard work and sacrifices.

***

Hello, PROJECT2020! I can’t wait to accomplish you.

December 24 

I woke up early because Mom and Dad want to go to SM for additional grocery items. And since I’m still not done with my Christmas shopping, I agreed to join them.

At around 9am, I unintentionally opened my Gmail. To my surprise, I saw a mail with a subject, “Congratulations!” It was from Rasheeda, Managing Principal of Butler Search Group. I really can’t explain what I felt that moment.

God is great! He knew what my heart wants. I’ve been really praying hard for that, and I am more than grateful that He gave that gift to me in the moment I least expect it.

I read the email twice or thrice before I told Mom and Dad about it. I wanted to be sure that it’s true and I’m not dreaming. Haha. Mom’s very happy upon hearing the news. She even said that she was also praying for that.

We managed to complete the Misa de Gallo. Two realizations hit me when I heard the good news. That is, how powerful prayer is and how faith can move everything.

I don’t know if completing the Misa de Gallo has really something to do with this, but there’s a belief that if you wish for something and you were able to complete the Simbang Gabi, your wish will be granted. As for me and the fam, it worked and it always works. This is not the only time that my wish was granted, it happens every year.

That calls for a celebration, right? I treated the fam for lunch at Flavours of China! The food was superb. We all got so full.

Mom and Tita Lola went to the supermarket while Dad, Pia, and I went to PC outlets to canvass for laptop. Now, Dad and I are both confused of getting a Mac or the HP i7 or a Sony Vaio. Shortly after, Pia and I went to department store to complete our list of presents.

We attended the Mass at 830 and had a sumptuous Noche Buena.

December 25 

I almost forgot to take pictures because I was busy multitasking—runner, cook, and driver. Yes, on a Christmas day. We got bulk of visitors who I personally don’t know. Then, other relatives. Our house was jam packed!

I was also asked to fetch up some relatives. And there’s traffic. Yes, on a Christmas day!

At around 4pm, I drove all the way to Laguna to spend Christmas with the Rufino’s. I tag Moochy along. It’s his first time there and he’s extra lambing that night. He would not want me to get out of his sight.

December 26

I drove back to Cavite and rest. I spent most of the day sleeping. It was our street’s Christmas Party but I opted not to join because I know how dizzy I could get after joining the drinking spree.

It’s funny how our neighbors would go to our house and tell Mom how strong my sis is in drinking alcoholic beverages. She’s only 15 and she was able to knock down almost everyone including notorious men drinkers. They finished their session at around 6am and I couldn’t see any sign that she’s intoxicated. Mom would say to them, buti nga sa kanya hanggang umaga lang. Kung kay Mica kayo makipag-inom hanggang bukas pa kayo. They just don’t know, kaya ayoko na uminom dahil wala nang bisa ang agimat ko.

Good thing, I have cool parents. But of course, we know our limitations. They’re cool, but they perfectly know how to discipline us.

December 27 

I’ll make a separate post about what happened this day, because this day is worth a space, really worth blogging.

I hope you guys all had a blast! 3 more days, and we’re off to another fun-filled long weekend! Hurray!

To my ever dearest Brother, Father, and God,

Happy Birthday! I love you. For the nth time, you’ve shown me how great, generous, loving, and forgiving you are. It’s your birthday, yet it’s still you who gave me presents. It’s not only today, but mostly everyday of the year. I could never ever thank you enough for all the blessings you bestowed upon me and my family for the past years and most especially this year.

2010 has really been a great year for me! And I would not be ashamed to say that you are the very reason why 2010 became a blast. Sure, there were tough times but you never made me feel that I am alone. You were there when I needed someone. You listen even in the most stupidest and selfish rants I share. You embraced me during the ugliest and darkest days.

Thank you for being my strength. Thank you for always making me feel that I have someone to run to when the whole world turns its back on me. Thank you for making me feel loved despite all my flaws and imperfections.

I love you and I will never get tired of telling you and other people about this. I hope I could be your instrument towards touching other people’s lives. You perfectly know the sentiments I have here deep within, but you never gave up on showering me with all positivity. Our conversations are the most heart-warming and touching. And even most of the time, I end up crying when conversing with you, it feels great, really! Because during those times, I feel genuinely loved and cared, I feel preciously treasured. The warmth of your hug never fails to enlighten me. I can’t explain how your acts transform into words, it’s a mystery how you make me feel that everything’s perfectly great!

Every moment with you is magical. And I hope people would find the light that would lead them to you.

Happy birthday, again! I love you.

With so much love and adoration, Mica

I’m guilty of being a last-minute shopper! Hey, it’s my first! And probably, my last!

I know, I’m such a loser for not being able to prepare early. You know, work shits and other stuff. My supposed weekend shopping was ruined because i needed to report to work because POS registers are acting up. Peak season, large crowd, et al. Live support, store operations. I love ‘em, actually. And i can’t resist the call. Downside, my plan was compromised.

For the past years, as early as November, i already have gifts wrapped up but this years’ a 360-degree turn— exact opposite.

I’m starting to feel the pressure (no, not of work) of my dozen (literally) godsons and daughters, my family, and my well-loved friends. My brain’s already drained, and i’m running out of gift ideas.

I don’t wanna end up giving cold cash to the kiddos. But if things don’t work out well, I’m considering that as my last option.

Good thing though, I already got presents for the family and Pangs. The misfortune that recently happened to us, did something useful though, it gave me an idea of what to give to Mom. Since almost all her jewelries were taken away, I opted to buy her a new gold watch which she kindheartedly liked. I was with her when i bought it so she knew what i had for her. That’s how excited she was to use it, hindi na nahintay magpasko, kinuha na agad. Lol. My sister, on the other hand, is very vocal of what she wants for Christmas. It’s so easy to find— wish granted. Later tonight, I’ll meet up with Pangs to buy presents for Dad. I’m still undecided but I’ll stick to Outland leather sandals/Levis maong pants. He’s used to these stuff and his taste for things is unpredictable so might as well choose between the two just to be safe. Anyway, I already gave him a bottle of fundador. And he’s already happy with that. I don’t know if he’s serious or what, but he said he wants a case of beer for Christmas. But whatever, I’ll buy that too because the boys are gonna spend Christmas with us.

Last night, I picked up the gift I ordered for Pangs. I won’t tell what it is, because I know she’ll get to read this. Haha. Clue, it’s something hard to buy and wrap. I’m not exaggerating, but it really took me forever to wrap it and drained all my energy to buy and bring it.

It’s hard to think of what to give when you have 13 tito and tita so I decided to have the same gifts for them, para pantay-pantay.

For my friends, you have me and my service 24/7. You don’t need gifts right? Lol! Kidding aside, i haven’t gone shopping for you guys. Bear with me. New Year’s gift na lang ang ibibigay ko sa inyo. Maiba naman.

I love all of ‘em. And I don’t mind spending bucks to make them feel special this season.

***

To the sole reason why Christmas exists and to the very essence of this season, YOU GOT ME!
I love you more than anybody else! You are the epitome of my life.

Thank you for making me feel super blessed. Thank you for surrounding me with great and kind-hearted people. Thank you for making life worth living. Thank you for everything.

No words could ever justify my love for you. No praises could ever equate to how much I adore you. No scale could ever measure how high I look up to you.

Merry CHRISTmas, My Father.

***

Happy Holidays everyone! Have a blessed one.