'All in the family'

As in the past years, I would have much rather kept my natal day as "low-keyed" as possible. For years it has been a "military secret", but my well-intentioned soeur opened their pretty big mouths, and alas, to my dismay, cell kept buzzing and phone rang off the wall for invites. As it has been a heartwarming tradition with the second and third generations of the Manuel and Agueda Teves clan, those in the vicinity got together and pitched in for a luncheon for the "feasted one". Since the men folk are busy with work, it's the social women folk that gather around the celebrator for hugs, kisses, gifts galore and candle-blowing.

This year social register Mariton Teves-Carballo congregated aunts, Dumaguete's social and best dressed icon Mediong Teves and Charito Teves, cousines Chiqui Yoldi, Bona Teves, Ula Villanueva, Chining Bustamante, Gina Vicente, Maite Teves, Fining Llanderal, Inday Maitos Aldeguer, Eva Raymond, Mitos Llanderal, out-of-towners Marichel Magalona, Machalen and Missy Camahort, from far off Madrid Eve Fleicher, sisters Maricris and Pichina Teves and nieces Alex and Carmen Teves and Pauline Villanueva for a Filipino Seafood luncheon at the scenic Santa Monica Beach Resort. It was strictly local gourmet, finger-lickin' good birthday cake from Sans Rival, and amiable conversation centered on the unfortunate goings-on in Imperial Manille and up and coming social and cultural events. The afternoon brought joy to my heart!

The Dumaguete City Tourism Council in co-operation with the ever reliable Air Philippines is venturing into another cultural event at the world class Luce Auditorium on March 10, 2006. "With a Song in My Heart" a concert featuring NegOr born, London based multi awarded tenor Jonathan Badon and soprano from the musical Aldecoa family Judge Jenny Lind Aldecoa-Delorino, accompanied by U. S. trained pianist Mary Ann Baclao. Their repertoire includes the world's most beautiful and loved songs. I'm sure it will be another magical musical night. Dear friends and music lovers, do come for a once in a lifetime experience..Nous!*