Carmina is traveling to the United States to spend time with her family. My dad planned a family gathering for Mother's Day at their favorite Pinoy restaurant . Since reservations aren’t possible, we arrived an hour early to ensure we could get a table for twelve before everyone else showed up. As my dad approached Isla Grand , the branch we visited in Pleasant Hills, California , the host at the door said they could prepare a table for twelve at five o'clock. Later, the server called my dad's name and guided us to our table. The place was bustling with people enjoying meals and celebrating Mother's Day. On our first visit to Isla Grand, I was captivated by the décor, noticing many native items that gave the place a fancy yet authentic Filipino feel. They usually have a live band, but unfortunately, there was no entertainment the night we went. My family had spoken highly of Isla Grand and encouraged us to try the Filipino dishes we’ve been missing from back home. Lech...
Today is a special day for me and I just realized how there is a lot of people who is there for you not to be next by you, but to read out all the birthday wishes. There are times you feel all alone and not realize there are really people out there for you. I decided not to publish my birthday in social media. I was testing everyone if they would just remember on their own. There are a lot of families and close friends who have passed the test. I had received so many comments and birthday wishes it was over whelming. I had to turn off my internet for awhile to catch up and breath. I am thankful for everyone having to think of me on this day. To send me birthday wishes and call me up just to greet me even if we're far away from each other. The best birthday gift was receiving not a gift to unwrap and open it, but a birthday greeting that took courage for people to actually do it. My younger sister had emailed me asking for our childhood pictures at ...