FROM TITA TESS

.. Hey Nins - .I'm only 15 years older than you so I treated you more like a baby sister rather than a niece. You grew up in our Little Baguio bedroom with the steps that go up like going to a princess' bedroom - remember the red wallpaper and the pink twin princess beds which you ended up using in Paranaque? I also recall Cora your midwife who would arrive early in the morning after your dad had dropped you off and he rushed to bring your mom to Panamerican. Lola would pick you up from your crib and bring you to her bedroom while she sewed or did something with her hands throughout the morning. I would pick you up and marvel at this baby who was our first niece and the experience was surreal. To be honest, I was so excited to have you around as I did not really have playmates in my age group among cousins who lived close by.

Dear Nina, I treasure our moments together and want you to know I admire the way you are with your kids - such a hands-on mom and that's really admirable. I also see myself in you - I remember the picture you sent which showed you demonstrating for some cause. Remember I was a Martial Law kid of the '70's and I was passionate about helping topple Marcos out of power. That makes us SO alike. I guess you are the baby sister I never had. There is so much to be said. Will leave that for our future bonding moments. Love ya Nins. Have a happy one. Mwah! Tita Tess