One of the many things I am eternally grateful for is the blessing of a loving family who has shaped my values and principles in a major way - not at all by strict directions but rather teaching by example.
And one of the persons who really had the biggest influence in my life - my older sister, turns 30 today and I know she's one of the few who will embrace the big 3-0 graciously.
Being the youngest (and eager) sister, I was the living Barbie of my two older sisters, especially Ate (I call Jasmine, Dite).
Our childhood fun did not really involve mingling with our neighbours and playing in the streets unlike typical kids in the Philippines - which explains why Ate and Dite can't even ride bikes (I used to sneak and go to a classmate's house in grade school so at least I learned to balance and ride though turning is still a crucial feat. ;p). Hehe.
Instead of playing street or board games, our usual pastime involved STYLE.
I was dolled-up complete with THE WORKS - as a ballerina with the tutu and high hair bun when I was only three years old; curled side-bangs plus eyeliner and lipstick for my seventh birthday party (yikes!!); a photo-shoot when I was about eight with the total set-up in our bedroom - layers of boxes draped with blankets and adorned with cheap necklaces, our bedroom light covered in red and green cellophane to simulate a professional studio lighting, and the 'model' (yours truly) changing from 'laid-back' style to sportswear to formal wear - yup, high-fashion. Ha. I would have posted some photos (for a good laugh) but unfortunately, all my old photo albums are in the Philippines. Hehe.
Fast-forward a couple of years and Ate who now works in a major magazine company, actually does REAL shoots.
Though our seven-year age gap is blurring as we get older, I know that I will always be my Ate's baby and I will always be loved, cared for, and protected.
Like any normal siblings, we had our share of misunderstandings and even a phase when we did not talk for almost a year. Being the protecting Ate and the baby suddenly turning into an adolescent who fell in love, we clashed when I had my boyfriend at a young and delicate age of 13.
I (and Edward) used to cry a river back then - not understanding why it's us against the world... Of course now we know and I'm also flabbergasted - such an early start!
It's really true that you appreciate the value of a person more when he or she is away. My bond with Ate was restored when she came back from living in the States for 6 months.
And since I left for Australia, our relationship and loyalty became stronger than ever.
I really miss my sister who has the best (slightly skewed, actually. hehe) sense of humour and it's very sad that Dite and I are not able to celebrate this milestone with her.
One of the things I am so sorry for is not being able to attend Ate's College Graduation because of my teen-age issues again but I'm really looking forward to seeing her in December to attend mine, together with mummy and daddy.
December, come sooner please!
Happy birthday my dear Ate! Lolo, Dite and I are planning to make your next Aussie holiday the best one ever so get excited! :)
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