Happy Birthday Carla

It was Carla’s 23rd birthday on October 1. As usual, I was busy with the birthday preparations. I’ve been the “surprise committee” for the last three years. I now wonder why she is still surprised everytime.

This year, mama and I decided to bring some food for Carla and her family. Last year, we had our feast in my apartment. Mama felt that it would be a better idea to have it in their home so that her loved ones would be there.

And so after work, I went to the florist for her bouquet. I’ve been going to the same place for three years. I got something nice for her, but this time, I did not order white Stargazers. In the past, the Stargazer has been the stellar of her bouqet, but this time I decided to ditch it. Its too expensive and I still needed to buy her some chocolates, and lunch for everyone.

Mama bought pancit for long life, I got some Toto's lechon manok, Strawberries and Cream and Cookies and Cream ice cream. This year's food was really simple, unlike last year. But just like every year, nothing makes Carla happier.

Carla's Birthday

I would make a good sister-in-law.

Very recently, my brother’s girlfriend had her 22nd birthday. I was busy all day getting her flowers, chocolates and running errands for her surprise dinner at home. It was chaotic for me during her 21st birthday as well.

You might be wondering why I’m slaving yearly for her birthday. My brother is stationed in an Airforce Base in Louisiana, so he depends on his one and only reliable sister to take care of his girlfriend in his absence. He’s been very generous to me, my son and Denver. Birthday planning for his girlfriend is the only favor I can do for him and it’s only once a year.

Anyway, it was a small birthday dinner but it was a hit.

In the morning, I dragged my uncle and aunt to Farmer’s Market so they could pick out the seafood and meat. I’m a real dummy when it comes to choosing fresh stuff. A few times, I went home with “smelly” meat, or really tough beef. I’m glad they enjoyed the market. My uncle wants to go back for my birthday.

It was raining so we got home drenched. We had Baked Tahong, Steamed Alimasag, Hilabos na Sugpo and Mechado. We were all serious eating dinner. Carla (my brother’s girlfriend) had some food on her hair while we were eating. Ganun ba talaga kasarap Carla?

I think everyone was happy with how everything turned out. I’m looking forward to next year’s birthday preparations.