Regina May Cajucom

Mothersmother Diaries E05: All in good time

TURNING the pages of my mothersmother diaries, I distinctly remember our heartache last year, a very painful experience we went through when our little diva Nadine was accelerated to Grade 1. Ok, let me take a step back as you might be wondering what “heartbreak” that was, and why it should be painful when promotion to a higher grade level should be cause for happiness (imagine one year’s worth of tuition saved) and pride, of course. We had that same feeling at first, because we thought the K-12 Program would be that beneficial to our youngest and to the family, as well.

My cool learning experience (a.k.a. MCLE)

IN compliance with Bar Matter No. 850 and Bar Matter No. 1922, members of the legal profession are required to undergo Mandatory Continuing Legal Education (MCLE) once every three (3) years, and complete 36 units of the subjects or topics prescribed under the rules to ensure that we keep abreast with the latest in substantial law, rules, procedures and in matters of legal ethics, as well.

Ocean Deep

WHEN you are a lover of books, of fiction novels particularly, there is simply no end to new bittersweet experiences: living other people’s lives, travelling to other places, indulging in others’ memories. I have always loved how William Styron put it: “A good book should leave you…slightly exhausted at the end. You live several lives while reading it.” How true.

Pagudpud D0iaries Ep04: Of Majestic Lighthouses and Surreal Scenes

I HAVE always dreamt of a family vacation in Pagudpud. I am no swimmer, but I love the beach, and just feeling the sand on my feet, the waves on my back and seeing the golds, oranges, pinks and greys of sunsets by the beach is part of my heaven on earth.

Beginning 2010, I have encouraged my family to go on long trips, preferably to beach destinations, and right after Bolinao then I was adamant Pagudpud should be next. Of course the long drive is not easy, and to appease my are-we-there-yet kind of kids and my loving hubby-driver-sweet-lover, I suggested we spend a night in charming Vigan to cut the trip (somewhat) short and less taxing.

The Pagudpud Diaries Ep03 - Moonlight fun

IT USUALLY takes eight to 10 hours to travel from Baguio to Pagudpud. Ours took two and a half days. Since the kids are are-we-there-yet kind of travelers, I thought it wise to spend one night in Vigan. It was a mistake (well, sort of...) because I think I left a piece of my heart in Calle Crisologo and now it aches to go back and experience yet another enchanted night travelling back through time.

Momentum

I JUST turned 38 last week, and I still do not see any need to lie about my age. Truth is, I would rather lie about my waistline, not my age.

Unfortunately, my age is easier to conceal than that other “figure”.

Wistful

IT’S my Mama’s birthday today. Memories keep flooding back, and I probably am entitled to be wistful, just for today. Happy memories of when she was still around are enough to warm my heart and put a sweet smile to my face, but the thought that she is no longer around for tight hugs, sweet birthday kisses, or simply just being there to listen to me rant about my long day at work and plans for the family is likewise causing a pain in my heart that is enough to bring about a withdrawn stance. Sometimes, late at night, there is that moment between being fully awake and near sleep...

The pagudpud diaries ep02: An unforgettable bumpy ride

AFTER a one-night love affair with enchanting Vigan, we drove towards Laoag City where we would be meeting Hubby’s college friend. Our Tres Mikaelas, who are such mallrats, got excited to see Robinson’s Laoag (after travelling from Vigan to Laoag, they were dying for cold drinks and a fully air-conditioned place); unfortunately, it was closed because of the Lenten season. We were toured around the city by the lovely and very kind Tita Gay of Sarrat, the sister of Mike’s college buddy who was sick with the flu. First stop was for lunch at Saramsam, a local resto that serves Ilocano dishes with a delectable twist. We had dinuguan pizza and pakbet pizza, both of which were surprisingly good, and malunggay ice cream that’s to die for.

The Pagudpud Diaries ep01: Travelling through time

THIS wanderlust persona has been further "activated" by the summer season, much like a Ms. Hyde waiting to come out after months of toiling in work and (my kids') school activities. Our beloved city of Pines is not spared from scorching hot sunny weather at high noon, although we are now experiencing April showers in the afternoons.

Since we had our Bolinao trip in 2011, the whole family has been somewhat bitten by the travel bug. Hubby and I since then promised our Tres Mikaelas that we will make it a point to go somewhere new at least once every year, and so far we have been faithfully complying with that promise.

Wanderlust

SUMMER brings back memories both wonderful and sad. It is what I consider a season of ironies: tempering mixed emotions and merging a fusion of sentiments. I could not face summertime without having to think about vacations we used to spend with my Mama, and all the fun, food and festivities we have shared while she was still with us. Added to that is the fact that Mama’s birthday falls on April 23, and mine in May, and we would always find something special to do – even the simplest gathering felt the grandest with her smile. I remember her last birthday with us, when April showers forbade a picnic out and we decided to just have a family dinner at home. She showed up from her room braving the cool air sans her much needed oxygen tank, dressed in a flowing summer dress fit for a queen.