Del Mar

Del Mar beach... relaxing walks on the sand reminded me of childhood beach fun with family. For almost any kind of celebration, we went to the beach. We usually had roasted pig (Leon would "Jewishly" cringe haha, or really enjoy), roasted sweet potatoes and other root crops, corn on the cob, vegetables and hot rice! And fresh fish... amazing how they came in different kinds and sizes from Tatay's fishpen, and the seashells, mussels and all... hard drinks for the adults abound, and of course, only coke, pepsi, mirinda and tru-orange for the children. Music was very much part of those beach parties. Guitars, ukulele and other local and native instruments accompanied singing by family and friends. Childhood memories... they're now JUST all memories... memories of my beloved Tatay, whose passing away from this earthly life brought about so many emotions, and still drives me crazy from crying tons of tears that won't stop falling. When the pain hits me, it hits me so hard, it is unbearably and excruciatingly painful. Why does life stop? Why did it stop for him? How he loved those family get-together events with family and friends by the beaches. Everything seemed so simple then, childhood was all about being fed, bathed and clothed by nannies, and the two beloved spinster Mamays. It was all about snacking on favorite champorado, or choices among native linupak, carameled sweet potatoes, maruyas, and other sweet potato recipes which I will soon try to make. Somehow, even my adobo does not seem to compare with how Mamay Ninang cooked it when we were all young children. During those times, I never liked food and it was such an ordeal to be fed. At this stage in my life, it is interesting to note that I crave for the same food I despised then, and which were forcefully fed on me by those caring hands who loved and cared for me and my siblings. How the beaches bring so much beautiful, and wonderful memories of childhood innocence... beautiful, clean, and happy young life!

2008 Summer in Del Mar provided some relief from worries about my Father's health at the time, and a much needed respite from in-between fiscal years' workload. Leon and I stayed in the Winner's Circle which initiated my mood for winning...well, not me who cannot part with a dime to spare and bet, but in my mind, there was no quetion that we were there to win. And so Leon did the firt day, and the next... and on some days, and on most days! Winning brings inspiration, good vibes, and good disposition.

Del Mar, we are going back this summer - I cannot wait to see the beaches again, to walk on the fine sand and feel them under my feet, to inhale the salty ocean air, and just revel in seeing the youth enjoy the beaches like my siblings and I did growing up. Ahhh...childhood summers, thank you for all those fun childhood memories, Tatay.