Happy at 80

The children of Soledad Mirasol Balde prepared a surprise birthday celebration for their beloved and loving mother, at Mellie's Garden in Silay City, recently.

Rev. Fr. Renan Asoy officiated at the thanksgiving prayer and blessing. Suddenly the lights were switched off, and the celebrator's children Nonong, Francis and Eduard, led their blind-folded mom to the far end of the garden, and when the lights were put on, a black Crosswind for the celebrator! A gift from her nurse daughter, Daday, working in Saudi Arabia.

She also provided them with a comfortable house which according to her other children, their mother really deserves.

Popularly known as Lola Dad, she was married to the late Francisco Balde, a driver of Central Hawaiian School Bus. Despite their meager income, they were able to send their children to school.

Her motto is "Always pay your bills first before anything else."

Her only daughter Daday enjoyed all the things little children do like playing the piano and dancing.

A typical housewife, she also does the marketing, budgeting, and is a spend-thrift when it comes to her finances.

Now at the age of eighty, she is enjoying her life with her apo's.

You are indeed a very good example to all of us Lola Dad.

God bless.

Remember: Concentrate on helping others and grasp each opportunity to offer encouragement and assistance.*