Tuesday, March 27, 2007 Violy turns 70 By Ana Felicia Dulay
BLUSHING and beaming like a bride on her wedding day, Fabiola Bulseco was delighted at the sight of her family and close friends at the Bistro Rosario last Friday.
It was a surprise party to end all surprise parties with daughter-in-law Ana Marie Bulseco, who hosted the gathering and flew in all the way from Sydney, cleverly making the arrangements to keep the celebrant unaware of their plans.
All the while Tita Violy thought her party will be held in another venue and she only drove to the place to pick up her cake.
The darkened room, lighted only with birthday candles the guests held, brought tears of joy to this lady, who looked smashing in a red dress.
And what a way to celebrate for the matriarch of the Bulseco clan, indeed! The guest list was select, only her close family, relatives and friends were present. Only those who truly feel blessed to have been her acquaintance was there.
Throughout the years, Tita Violy did not make me feel like a guest in all the parties and celebrations she hosted. Almost like a second mother, she made me feel like a member of the family. She taught me, though unintentionally perhaps, that some friendships are worth keeping and more precious than newer, more "silver" ones.
Most of Violy's brothers and sisters were present and of course her children along with their own brood, Albert and wife Sonia, Annabelle and husband Elmo Abear, son Alejo "Jojo" III. Alric and his two sons were unable to fly from Sydney, also with son Alex and his wife Arlene who are both in the U.S.A along with their kids. Present also during the birthday bash was Violy's daughter's best friend, Chu Consunji.
Her "Lions Family," fondly referring to friends from the Mt. Apo Lions Club circle, graced the event, including Sonia Damaso, couples Leo and Zeny Cariño, Luming and Mile Quinto, Boy and Beng Ongkiko, Nene and Nita Uy, Rene and Janet Llanto, Abe and Fe Angayan, Rey and Betty Gravador, Jun and Miling Cordero, Rudy Lalin, Pete Ninte, Fred Dizon and Minda Reyes.
Another year, another leaf, so to speak. May you have more "bonus" years to engulf everybody in your loving arms.
