ESPECIALLY for you piper

i had a really tiring day! it’s very late and my legs are sorely aching, my eyes already twitching…i even conditioned myself that i would sleep a bit earlier tonight because i haven’t had enough sleep for 2 weeks now…but i cannot let this night pass without writing about a very special person, one friend i truly treasure and love so dearly.

i first thought of writing about her last Sunday- which was the “national thank you day” because if there are persons I’d like to say thank you to- she would definitely be one of those on top of my list.

looking back, i realized that she is a big part of my growing up- both as a person and as a career woman.

she was one of those who helped me in my tv career. i used to call her ate evette. when i started as a researcher for balitang k, she was already a writer/reporter. when i was training as a writer/reporter, she became my mentor. i was tasked to join in her coverage in benguet and baguio. she was never intimidating! she was generous enough to personally guide me in my first assignment. i couldn't have done my first story without her help.

i’ve learned so much from her— from mere watching how she worked, how she did her interviews, how she led the team and gave instructions to the crew etc.

she served as a good example for then newbies like me. she was one of the few who could always deliver thus earned the respect of her peers and our hard-to-please boss. on top of that, she was a nice person, approachable and easy to work with.

i am immensely happy that our work relationship has evolved into friendship— one that is worth keeping. she's one friend anyone would wish to have.

thank you friend for being just YOU—in so many ways you have taught me about life, about love, motherhood and so much more. you’ve also helped me discovered my self-worth.

you were never selfish. you’ve found a way to give me work to supplement my income when i needed it. you've made me feel welcome when i wanted to hold back asking for help.

you are my cheerleader! you were always there during my lowest and life-changing moments, or even without you knowing it. likewise, we have the most fun laughing together- just chatting, working out or playing badminton (i miss that!), just having coffee, or bonding with prue. it’s important that friends make each other happy.

sometimes, i feel guilty about not being always available when you text for a business meeting or just chika-moment or gym-bonding, it’s just either i’m pre-occupied with my motherly duties or ABS work. i felt even more guilty when i wasn’t able to go with u in bohol. but i know you have such an understanding heart. you know that i've planned to join and support you in your charity work but something got in the way.

and oh, i almost forgot, if it weren’t for you i wouldn’t be into blogging which i soo enjoy doing. you got me into this and it definitely added spice and fun to our friendship (with prue as well)!

on this very special day, i only have the best birthday wishes for you— may God continually bless you with a caring heart and a tranquil mind; good health and a loving family...and may HE finally send you a man who will truly love and respect you, one who is equally good a person as you are.

you’ve gone a long way friend, i am proud of your achievements…
and i am equally proud to be your friend!

Happy Birthday Evette!