The Pilapil Family

Manoy Junnie: So The Younger Ones Will Always Remember

2011-09-28T15:58:00.003+08:00

We grew up in a family with nine children whose father is a jeepney driver and a dressmaker mother. Their meager income can feed the family with simple and equally divided meals but barely send all the children to school.

But with very good intention to send their children to one of the reputed good high schools in the area, which is a private school, Papang and Mamang send Manoy Junnie (the eldest) to Allah Valley Academy (AVA). It was understandable that our parents can still afford the school fees for their eldest in a private high school because all the younger school children were availing the free public elementary education that is a walking distance from our house.

When Manoy Junnie was still in AVA, Manay Rosalie, the second child and just a year younger, graduated from elementary, and was very eager to proceed to high school. Due to the measly income of our parents, they cannot afford to send her also to a private school. So, it was decided that Manay will attend to a public high school named Surallah National Agricultural School (SUNAS), where Papang and Mamang had to think only of her exact daily fare (no, I mean, NEVER had extra allowance for snacks. Money for snacks and other wants was so foreign to us by then!) and a very minimal miscellaneous school fees.

Two years after Manay Rosalie entered high school, it was also Ate Lilyn’s turn to embrace secondary education. It was also then that Manoy graduated from AVA . Wow, congratulations, it was a dream come true to our father who only reached Grade III and to our mother who is a high school graduate!

In as much as Manoy wanted to continue schooling, college education to our parents by then was far fetched and, they said, it was only meant to those people whose family can afford to send them to far away places where a College institution is available. By then, there was no College yet in our town. So Manoy had to stop and gave way for the younger siblings to get high school diplomas too.

While in respite from school, Manoy Junnie was Mamang’s executive assistant in the house in any task one can think of. Among so many, he cut woods for cooking, go down the cliff which was about a kilometer away to fetch water from the well right beside Allah River (there was no Cartesian Well or running water in our place by then), maintain our yard garden with ornamental plants and vegetables, raise livestock like chickens and pigs, clean the house, and look and prepare food as it is the practice of our family that Papang buys about a kilo of meat or fish every day that will be consumed for dinner that day, and breakfast and lunch the following day. We had to be innovative what menu to prepare bearing in mind that this 1 kilo of viand should fit in 3 meals for the whole family. We harvested from our backyard the vegetables and spices to add. Horse radish and lemon grass were champion!

While busy with house chores, Manoy also took time to be active in church activities and made friends with the family of a pastor. The pastor and his wife, who were both high school teachers, became Manoy’s mentors. They encouraged him to pursue college education from where they graduated. The school is about six hours jeep and bus ride away from us. The fare going there is already so expensive based on the family’s standard. This simply implied that we can never afford the tuition fees and Manoy’s daily sustenance! With so much thoughts and prayers, Manoy eventually asked the blessing of our parents. After lengthy discussions and arguments of our parents, and with great hesitation of Papang but with fervent prayers and a strong faith in God of Mamang, they finally let Manoy pursue his dream.

After about three years of vacation from school and with humungous determination, Manoy enrolled at Southern Baptist College (SBC). He took up Bachelor of Education in Secondary Education major in Mathematics. Manoy wanted to be a teacher! Our family, with the contribution of some friends, was able to raise only for his fare, for required tuition downpayment and for buying food for a few days. Upon recommendation of his mentors, Manoy then worked as a working student (as in mopping the school gym's floor, cleaning the comfort rooms, cutting bushes, etc., etc.) during weekdays, and served as a pastor in a small church in a far flung Barangay called Tibao Baptist Church during weekend. He utilized the working student salary for his school fees and projects, and lodging payment. For his food, every time he returned to SBC from a weekend of pastoral work, the members of his church gave him supplies of rice, chickens, fruits and vegetables which he can barely consume for weeks. Manoy was also blessed to receive gifts of clothes to add to his very limited wardrobe! During weekdays, when he had no class or was not working, Manoy spent almost all his time either in the library or at his room studying for both his subjects and preparing sermons for his church services.

There were rare occasions when Manoy went home either during long holidays or school vacations. We were always very glad to have Manoy home. He always exerted big effort to bring little something for us all. My favorites were those second hand reading books especially the Sesame Street. The only books around the house by then were school textbooks and Bibles. He also prepared special meals for the whole family - his very own creation! I can still figure out a horse radish-egg soup. Hmmm…it was so yummy by then!

In one occasion, I remember seeing Mamang and Manoy standing before the open rectangular window of our house. Manoy was about to go back to SBC by then. They were talking and I overheard Mamang saying in cracked voice, “I am really sorry, Jun, that is the only amount we can afford to give you now.” She gave Manoy P120. “Do not compare yourself to your friends whose allowances are thousands of pesos in a month. We can never afford that. And, as you can see, many of your siblings are also attending high and elementary schools. I don’t know where your Papa and I will get their daily sustenance. I just commit everything to God.” Then Manoy replied with teary eyes, “I am very aware of that, Mang, and don’t you worry because I never demand at all”. By then, Manay Rosalie, who graduated already from high school, was the one who is managing the house chores.

Then the reaping time for Manoy’s labors arrived. About four years after Manoy first left home for SBC. I remember so well, it was when I was in Grade V that Mamang, Manay Rosalie, Nonoy and I attended Manoy’s graduation. (By then, Manay was already done in her first year in BA Economics. Yes, she enrolled in another college with her own humongous determination.) I remember wearing a Girl Scout uniform during the commencement ceremony because it was the newest and the only presentable dress I got. Mamang was ecstatic that her eldest finally receive a college diploma and now a “degree holder” as she called it. It was a dream come true not only for herself but also for her own parents whom she had been feeling guilty of failing them for their wishes that she will be a “degree holder” as well. Papang did not go with us. As he justified, he cannot afford for a vacation from work even just for a day. Otherwise, we will all starve! And, to be consistent, he never attended any graduation of all his children!

After graduation, Manoy took the licensure exam for teachers and was fortunate to pass it right away. He was hired by SBC’s high school department right after.

Right then and there, he owned the responsibility of sending Ate Lilyn (who was about to enter college, Kuya Jocjoc (who was about to enter 3^rd year high school) and Nene (who was about to enter high school) - the 3^rd, 4^th and 6^th child, respectively - to school. He enrolled them at SBC as well. Our parents were partly relieved with the burden of sending us all to school and, hopefully, improve our lives!

While teaching and serving as guardian to our three siblings, Manoy was not yet content with his education He enrolled in weekend classes to a graduate school of Notre Dame of Marbel University in order to get a masters degree in education. He traveled 10 hours back and forth each weekend to do this. He then transferred to a national high school to be near our home, to teach to less privileged high school students and for a better pay.

Right now, Manoy is back to our place serving as principal in a national high school just about 50 meters away from our parent’s house. It has been a long and mountainous journey. But Manoy was determined, focused, persevered and clung to God through and through.

May his children, nephews and nieces will emulate him always. May their lives be like what Manoy is enjoying right now or even better.

P.S.

Manoy is still fond of planting and raising livestock but he, together with his wife who is also a principal in another national high school, has been expanding it from the yard of their house to hectares of farm. The additional income he is getting from their farm helps in sending his daughter who is graduating in a pre-med degree from the premier university of the country, and his son who is taking up marine engineering from the premier maritime university in the country. Moreover, there is an abundant supply now of running water both in his own family’s house and in our parent’s house.

The Renewal of Vows Ceremony of Mr. & Mrs. Roberto Q. Pilapil, Sr.

2011-08-23T14:01:00.011+08:00

April 22, 2011. Papang/Lolo Berto and Mamang/Lola Conching celebrated their 50th Wedding Anniversary. They had a simple yet very meaningful renewal of vows ceremony at General Santos City, Philippines in the presence of all their children and grandchildren, and some close relatives and friends.

Below are some pictures during the ceremony:

We are very happy and grateful to celebrate this milestone in our parents/grandparents married life.

See You In Heaven, Mamang/Lola Conching!

2011-08-23T12:53:00.009+08:00

Mamang/Lola Conching, we miss you so much but we will be OKAY! We go on with each of our life's journey with the knowledge that God is always with us.

May God continue to use us all to be His living testimony as you did. May He grant us wisdom and discernment in all that we do as He did to you. Amen.

See you in HEAVEN whenever God will call us as our mission is done here too!

After a Long While

2011-08-23T11:49:00.004+08:00

It has been a long while since this blog was last updated. Many things - good and not so good - took place. We fought hard in every challenge. We learned from each failure and mistake.We celebrated many happy birthdays and wedding anniversaries as well as promotions, new positions, and big and small successes. We celebrated the Golden Anniversary of Papang/Lolo and Mamang/Lola. We mourned and celebrated the life of Mamang/Lola Conching.

In all these, we just kneel and pray to THANK God for everything and continue to ask for wisdom and understanding as we go on with our life's journey!

Let us go on living with the knowledge that God is always there for us. He will never leave us nor forsake us. We can do all things through Christ who strengthens us. And that, everything is possible with Him. Life is always beautiful with Him!

God bless us all!

it's father's day!!

2010-06-20T02:27:00.002+08:00

HAPPY father's day to LOLO, Papa, Tito Orlan, Tito Joc-Joc, Tito Robert, Tito Fred, Tito Nats, Tito Toto and Tito Nonoy!

Everyone knew that today is father's day. But I and my friends were confused. We thought it was last week. so, I greeted my father and I got an immediate thank you.Then, I was convinced that last Sunday wasn't father's day.

But just thinking about how many father's day and mother's day I've missed because I wasn't with them to celebrate it personally, it made me more eager for the day to come. and that explains what happened last week.

and so, while the day was still approaching, I think about Papa and the whole family more and more. I kept on looking at the pictures on my cabinet and even resolved, while watching "Kung Tayo'y Magkakalayo", that Papa looks like the handsome Albert Martinez which my housemates agreed. (Pa, sikat ka na! hahaha)

I resolved to greet Papa again; this time, I'm calling. He's absolutely a man after God's heart.

I love Papa and also, Lolo. I love my Titos as well who are equally loving and supportive (and good cooks!!! hehehe).

Happy Father's day to them and to all the Father's in the world. May God continually guide you as you lead your families. thank you for being Great Dads!!! wee!!

Yeah, today's tita Che's birthday also.

Looking Forward to the Golden Wedding Anniversary

2010-05-12T15:02:00.006+08:00

On 22 April 2011 our dearest parents will be celebrating their 50th wedding anniversary.

It is said that spending half a century in love with one person is a wonderful statement about the gift of married life. But, how many couples nowadays can reach their golden wedding anniversary? We are so glad, thankful and very proud that our Papang and Mamang have been striving so hard to stick to each other - through thick and thin, in richness and in poorness, in good health and in sickness. They are just one of the few fortunate married couples who are blessed to celebrate this big milestone soon!

And we are so looking forward to it!

THANK YOU and FAREWELL, JAPAN!!!

2010-01-27T19:14:00.003+08:00

Lola Conching's 67th Birthday, the Celebration and our Wishes

2009-05-04T13:56:00.019+08:00

Lola Conching had her 67th birthday on the first day of the 9th CECOWEB Inding Reunion. Here are some pictures how she celebrated this grand day:

Teary Lola during the early morning harana from her siblings, children, grandchildren and extended grandchildren

more early moning singing for Lola

Some of her haranistas

Yummy meal

Prayer before partaking the yummy meal

The cake says it all

The litson looks like screaming... Lola is pushing it! hihi

Soooo happppy

It was really a HAPPY-HAPPY BIRTHDAY!

May you have many more birthdays to come, best of good health always and continue to enjoy your God-given life! We love you heaps!

Lolo and Lola's Wedding Anniversary

2009-04-28T22:20:00.003+08:00

Here is a picture of Lolo Berto and Lola Conching's 48th Wedding Anniversary celebration.

Cheers!

Celebrating Christmas 2008

2009-01-10T13:27:00.019+08:00

these pictures were taken last December 25, 2008 at Pilapil's residence, Brgy. Lamsogod, South Cotabato. It was also JC's 11th birthday. so, we prepared a lot of foods. spaghetti pa lang nabusog na kami. there are several other pics that will be uploaded soon. these include the continuation of these pics, during Christmas eve, during my debut and during the 1st day of the year 2009! (I hope to upload them soon maybe after my exams)... but check this multiply account first - pegasianfelle.multiply.com... andun yong 1st pics namin noong Christmas pero di rin yon complete... so stay tune!

-Love-Love

Christmas 2008 Pictures from Kagoshima

2009-01-06T18:42:00.013+08:00

Family Picture on Christmas Day

Nats with jolly Ichi and Ai

Ichi and Ai are ready to open the gifts they received

Che, Ichi and Ai pose with our Christmas tree and the gifts

Ichi, Ai and their Ninang Reyna pose in a manger at Xavier Cathedral

Christmas eve with the Seriganos at Kushikino City; Ichi is forcing himself to stay awake

Christmas eve with the Seriganos at Kushikino City

Ichi's School Presentation

2008-12-30T20:59:00.009+08:00

Last December 7, Ichi's school had their annual yoikonohappyokai (presentation). The class for 3-year olds had two performances (see the videos below). Nats and I are so proud of our grown up son who seems to be a natural performer. Don't you think so? Or, we are just bias. Afterall, we are Ichi's stageparents. Haha.

In the first video, Ichi acts as one of the Ojiisan (grandfathers) who are trying to pull out a big raddish. But since it is very big, they cannot pull it by themselves. So they call Obaasan (grandmothers), 2 Ultraman (a japanese superhero), then 2 Ninja and finally 2 mice for help.

Strawberry and Orange Picking

2008-12-10T10:31:00.002+08:00

It was fun to pick strawberries in an Ichiki farm (about 45 minutes train ride from Kagoshima City) and oranges in a farm in Yunomoto (one station before Ichiki), respectively. Thanks to our very kind host, Engr. Kunio and Milet, one of Ai' godparents. We are sharing some pictures in the slide below:

October to November Photos

2008-11-13T23:37:00.000+08:00

Ai's 1st Birthday

2008-08-02T12:51:00.022+08:00

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The Invitation

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The Birthday Thanksgiving Party

Papa Nats' Speech:

Good afternoon, everyone! First of all, thank you all for coming despite the rain.

Last Wednesday (June 25), a year has passed since the birth of Aiko. So Cherry and I are greatly honored for your presence today and for joining us in our thanksgiving celebration. It's our tradition, that is Filipino tradition, to celebrate the first, seventh, and eighteenth/21st birthday with grandeur. I do not know how we came up with these years, but Cherry and I personally know that the child's first year is a crucial one - especially with regards to health and developmental concerns. And, for us parents, the first year is the most taxing phase yet especially for Cherry since she had to spend all of her time taking care of Aiko. Now that Aiko's a year older we can relax a little bit because she already knows how to entertain herself by watching Barney or nainai ba and okaasantoisyu on TV, and by playing with her toys. She can also already communicate her needs either with a sign language, by babbling or by calling her Mama. She's starting to test her independence and mobility too by crawling and walking while holding onto things.

Another reason why Cherry and I should make a fuss about Aiko's first birthday: its because we cannot imagine how we survived the year! Aiko is a wanted child of course because after Ichi we really planned to have one more child. But like her kuya Ichi, Aiko also surprised us because her conception was unexpected. It was too soon we thought. I remember, it took me a long time even to inform my sensei of Cherry's pregnancy. I thought my sensei would get angry. But when I finally told him he simply asked me: 'was it planned?'. Of course, it meant I have to do double-time in the lab so I can use a portion of my day for my family. Moreover, we were anxious of many things. Example: where we will leave Ichi during the delivery, how will Che take care of Ichi and the new baby without compromising her health, how about our finances, how can I manage my time between lab and home, can we survive the challenges ahead by ourselves, etc... But it seems Aiko is already cooperative and understanding even at birth. She did not give Cherry a hard time during the delivery especially that I was not around because I had to pick up Ichi from school. Cherry also had an easier time taking care of our new baby. She was not too exhausted unlike before. Aiko was healthy and developing well too. Even Ichi cooperated by not giving us a hard time instead was so gentle with her baby sister. Surprisingly, I was also able to finish my tasks in the lab without delay. Along the way, of course, we received an abundant supply of support and assistance from you all especially from Aiko's Ninongs and Ninangs.

Finally, we are gathered here for the most important reason. Cherry and I are so grateful to God for giving us Aiko. We are blessed to have a little princess that have smiles that can lighten our days, a little princess that can soothe our tired bodies and a little princess that gives us inspirations and hopes for a better future. I know Beth and her husband, felt the same way too for their little prince, Hiroki, who is co-celebrating his first birthday with Aiko today. And I know most of you here also know how fulfilling it is to be a parent when a child bring joy to our lives.

So this afternoon, let us enjoy, have fun and be little children like our little princess Aiko and little prince Hiroki.

Thank you again!

Note: You can view the larger images by clicking the pictures.

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Jan-Apr 2008 Pictures

2008-04-25T23:22:00.004+08:00

Herewith are some of our pictures for January to April. Look how fast Ichi and Ai are growing.

Autism: A Family Experience

2008-02-07T14:53:00.000+08:00

I just watched the video in Yahoo! news about the family with 6 autistic children. My heart ache with the family as I am also thinking of JR and JC, my two autistic nephews from my brother Robert (whom I dearly called Mamoy).

Mamoy is the 5th in our 9 brood. In college, he enrolled in B.S. Criminology only to realize in the last term before graduation that he does not really like to work in solving crimes. He then shifted to electronics but never really used it to find a living. He instead take care of tricycles, means of transportation for passengers which is very popular in our city. As he cannot afford to buy his own, our eldest bought one so that he can drive it and have an income – no matter how minute - everyday.

Mamoy married when he was about 27 years old - seemed old enough to settle down but not old enough to be a responsible parent. Much more not responsible and knowledgeable to raise two autistic children. He and his full time wife, Dora, even gone through a long denial period that their children are not normal. They did not listen at first to advises that they should see a specialist.

As a family's breadwinner, Mamoy hardly makes ends meet. We have to literally give him money once in a while. And, the whole family is really struggling. I do not know. My idea is: when you get married, you should see to it to stand up firmly in everything with regard to your own family. As much as possible you must not burden your parents and siblings anymore! But, can we just let Mamoy face this dilemma alone?

JR, his eldest has been officially diagnosed to have autism when he was 4 years old. JC on the other hand was found to have the same brain development disorder when he was 2. All of Mamoy's siblings have been very supportive to them to the best they can be. As mentioned earlier, one of us provided him a livelihood. Another one set an amount in her own family budget to shoulder the children's weekly therapy. Moreover, everyone contributed to build them a concrete house (before having a house, they just rented in a very crowded area in the city that actually seemed to be a squatter's area and then transferred to occupy a very small hut owned by Dora's sister). We also initiated to extend their house to give room for a small variety store - for Dora to attend to while she is taking care of the children. But it did not work. JR & JC usually spoiled the stocks. They even ate some laundry bar soap.

JR and JC used to run around a lot during their waking hours. They were even lost in their village several times which took Mamoy & Dora almost a day to find them. JR has also this habit of breaking the drinking glass with his teeth each time he drunk milk or water. He also liked to eat toothpaste and ketsup a lot. There were also incidences of gasoline drinking. Both of them loved to scream also but they never talk.

The therapy helped very little. The only expert in the city is only for behavioral modification. JR is now 11 years old while JC is 9. They cannot speak. The family is losing hope for the disorder correction. They have been going to a government special school in the city but they stop once in while because of their parents' lack of resources. Sometimes Mamoy seemed to surrender already and give in that this is the fate of his family, so be it! Then, do nothing to improve their situation.

Personally, I am really teary eyed every time I think about them. My heart always ache for JR & JC. I really wonder why they are given this challenge with very little opportunity to raise the children to reach the services necessary for correcting the disorder or at least to live comfortably.

When JR & JC were 6 and 4 years old, respectively, Dora got pregnant again! They kept it from the family at first to the point that Dora fail to show up in family gatherings. When her tummy just took its course to eventually tell about the pregnancy, everyone in the family were secretly blaming ( if not cursing) for their irresponsibility. The probability of having another autistic child is really high! Right now, the child which they named Ken is still less than 2 years old. He can speak a little already. We are all praying and hoping that he will never develop the same disorder or any developmental disorder in any form.

I do not know what this article can do precisely. I have so many reasons in mind: I wanted to let it out my chest. I want to tell the whole world we need help to raise JR & JC. I am also hoping that it could reach researchers and take them as part of their samples (even if they are in farflung southern Philippines), and may be contribute to solve the mystery of autism. I want also to plea for support in whatever way. Or, maybe it is just my way of asking your prayers for them and their parents - for more strength especially in taking care of their severely autistic children each day. I am even thinking now that maybe, this would be the beginning of an educational fund campaign. I do not know.

One thing is for sure: I wanted to help Mamoy more and improve the lives of his children.

The Christmas Celebration 2007

2008-01-07T16:59:00.003+08:00

...hey..here are sample pictures of our Christmas Celebration 2007 at Lolo Berto's house...I will just make a picture presentaion that will include all of the pics...watch out for it!!! plus a video of our little fireworks display...hehehe
---Love-Love

Yuletide Pictures

2008-01-02T13:25:00.000+08:00

Dear Family & Friends,

We are sharing pictures herewith during the holidays.

A blessed New Year!

Love,
Nats & Che

Big Brother Ichi

2007-10-28T19:35:00.000+08:00

Ichi is teaching Baby Ai how to do 'Bansai' (Japanese way of saying "Long Live" or "Mabuhay") and 'Close, Open'.

Kaye, Joy and Joanne!!

2007-10-26T20:41:00.001+08:00

here are selected pics of three of the four new angels in the family.

My Celebrity Look-alikes

2007-10-26T10:19:00.001+08:00

http://www.myheritage.com

Jeziel Joy and Joanne

2007-10-16T16:53:00.000+08:00

We welcome our new angels in the family, babies Jeziel Joy and Joanne!

Mama Gaga gave birth on October 2 to baby Joy by normal delivery. A week after (October 8), Mama Betty gave birth by C-section to baby Joanne.

Including Kerr and Jepoy, Lolo Berto and Lola Conching have now 19 grandchildren.

Cheers!

Ai's Christening Pictures

2007-09-13T17:09:00.000+08:00

Dear Family and Friends,

We are sharing herewith photos during Ai's christening.

Warm regards to everyone.

Love,
Nats & Che

Ai's Christening Invitation

2007-08-31T15:43:00.000+08:00

Photos during our 2007 Birthdays and Others

2007-08-31T15:33:00.000+08:00

We are sharing herewith pictures during our wedding anniversary & birthdays celebrations this year, among others.

homesick?UAAP...Kalai....GE and required Subjects...and atm

2007-07-08T12:54:00.000+08:00

the title....hehehe...yan ang mga bagay na umiikot sa world ko ngayon...hirap mag isa rito...heheh

Julia Aiko

2007-07-03T15:48:00.001+08:00

Another angel was born on June 25, 2007 at 4:13 in the afternoon. Julia Aiko Pilapil Anasco weighed 2622g and stood 48cm, a little smaller than her Kuya Ichi. Nats and I are very grateful for the safe, smooth and normal delivery. We are sharing some pictures in the following slide.

Dancing Pianist?

2007-06-17T19:51:00.000+08:00

Ichi watched a kid in the TV playing a piano. He then got his own mini piano and imitated the TV pianist but he added his own style of banging and dancing!

New Family Member

2007-05-29T18:01:00.000+08:00

Tita Lilyn gave birth normally to a healthy baby girl named Jorlyn Kaye Pilapil Esteban at 2am on May 25. This was also the day of CECOWEV Inding Clan reunion held at the Pilapil Compound in Gensan. Tita Lilyn was discharged from the birthing clinic that same day and served as a song leader during the reunion's ecumenical service. The whole family thank God for the smooth and safe delivery of baby Kaye.

Kaye is the 15th grandchild of Lolo Berto and Lola Conching.

Congratulations, Tita Lilyn & Tito Orlan!

Welcome to the family baby Kaye!

Hana Matsuri

2007-05-15T10:57:00.000+08:00

Hana Matsuri is a japanese term for Flower Festival.

Our family, together with some friends, visited Kinkowan Park where this festival was held on May 12, 2007. The park is about an hour bus trip from our apartment. We really had a great time there viewing the beautiful flowers - especially the different colors of roses, picnicking, playing and even trekking. We are sharing some pictures herewith.

We are sure Mamang Conching and Manoy Junnie will really enjoy the trip also if they are with us as they are very fond of planting, among others, ornamental plants and love flowers.

Our Growing Family

2007-04-22T06:35:00.000+08:00

HAPPY 46th WEDDING ANNIVERSARY TO LOLO BERTO & LOLA CONCHING!

Your children and grandchildren have been witness to your life as a wonderful couple. You are two individuals who are very different yet you have been together through thick and thin. You have been true to your vows of "for better or for worse, till death do us part". Thank you for being such a very good example to all your children. May you will be blessed more with happy and meaningful life together! This is indeed a great occasion to celebrate. Cheers, cheers, cheers!!!

It is interesting to note that as our family is growing, the grandchildren are continuously trying to reach for their dreams also through education - one of the valued things in the family. This coming academic year, Love, the first grandchild and who graduated high school with flying colors, will be entering college in the so-called premier university of the country. Darling, Ian, Kerr, Jam and JP are either continuing or starting their high school years while JA, Honey and JJ are in their elementary. JR and JC are also having positive developments and it is our family's pervent prayer that they will also live a normal life despite the challenge of being autistic children. Jepoy, Jazz, Ichi and Ken are still in their curious years and savoring the joy of being healthy and well-loved toddlers.

As the members are growing, the family is expanding too. Mama Lilyn, Mama Betty, Tita Che and Tita Gaga are all currently pregnant. Our forthcoming gatherings would surely be full of babies - literally! A smooth pregnancy and safe delivery to them!

As our family keeps growing and expanding, may we all be continuously blessed too!

Address of Thanks (a.k.a. Valedictory Address) by Junfelle Love M. Pilapil

2007-03-29T12:27:00.000+08:00

YESTERDAY, I DARED TO STRUGGLE. TODAY, I DARE TO WIN.

Honored and beloved guests, a greeting of a wonderful afternoon!

About a year ago, the Filipino nation watched with awe and expectation when three brave souls, Heracleo Oracion, Erwin Emata, and Romeo Garduce respectively conquered the world's highest peak- the Mount Everest. Today, as I speak, three Filipinas are in training to equal the feat of their men counterpart and be considered the first three Filipino women to achieve what, for us Filipinos, is considered to be impossible. Ladies and gentlemen, these men and women represent the special group of people who prove to us that dreams do, indeed come true.

Today, as we gather here, we remenisce that four years ago, a group of young people, some in the first year of their teenage life but most in thier final stage of childhood, had first stepped, as high school students, on the portals of the Notre Dame of Marbel University- Intergrated Basic Education Department. They have started a new journey and, like the mountaineers, they have ventured into making their dreams come true. Now we are proud to say that those young boys and girls of four years ago are now the very same young men and women that you honor with your presence. We are really very honored and blessed. With you, we share the fulfillment of our dreams come true.

If you now perceive us as young ladies and gentlemen, please remember that four years ago we were not like this. When we started our high school days we were a picture of innocence and vitality as well as insecurity and fear. But as a group we have shown a common denominator - determination, determination to win over fear, determination to struggle over our weaknesses, and determination to prove ourselves.

Through the years we persisted and we insisted. We know that the road to succes is difficult to achieve and that along the way we will tumble down and have scratches. But we never thought of giving up and we never thought of loosening our grip to the people who were always around ready to be of help when we need them.

YESTERDAY, I DARED TO STRUGGLE. TODAY, I DARE TO WIN.

These words from Bernadette Devlin both illustrate this chapter of our lives and the source of our inspiration. (May i request my batchmates to please stand up) Ladies and Gentlemen, this is Batch 2007 and we are proud to say YESTERDAY, WE DARED TO STRUGGLE. TODAY, WE DARE TO WIN!(Please be seated)

Just like the summiteers, we have fulfilled our dreams. We have attained our goals. We share the same feelings when they conquered the top of the world. As they are considered as one of the Philippines' pride, we are the hope and pride of our school and family. We have proven ourselves well.

In the midst of our success and victories are the people who have supported and sustained us in our daily struggles. We would like to acknowledge them.

On behalf of Batch 2007, we would like to express our loving gratitude to NDMU-IBED, our second home for four years and for providing us with quality Christian education.

The same goes to our administrators who have given us their full support during our stay in NDMU-IBED.

We express our gratitude to the Marist Brothers for furnishing us with great ideas, for giving us a better view of life, and for instilling in us the Christian values.

For our modern-day heroes- our teachers, especially our advisers from first year to fourth year- we thank you for molding us, for standing by us, for encouraging us, for discovering our talents, for believing in us, and for imparting knowledge to us.

To our ever-loving parents, our number one fans, MADAMO GID NGA SALAMAT. Thank you for understanding us, for supporting and trusting us. Especially, salamat gid sa inyong mga sermon. Although we don't like them sometimes, rest assured that we truly learned from them. Thank you also for the sacrifices and the patience. Through them we really felt your love and we have loved you more because of them.

We have so much fun with our classmates and friends. Friendship has made high school life bearable somehow. The many times we made projects together, the time spent in studying and learning, these are some of the times that we felt that high school life is fun. My dear Batchmates let us keep the spirit alive through our continuing friendship. Let us be proud of having TATAK MARISTA!

To everyone gathered here, your presence in this significant event has uplifted our spirits. Thank you so much!

Finally, we would like to acknowledge and thank the Almighty God to whom we owe evertyhing. No words can express our gratitude to Him. Thank You, dear Lord!

To all of you, and in deep gratitude and appreciation, we would like to share the medallions and certificates with you. Today is also your day as well as ours. Truly, you are the wind beneath our wings.

Good day and thank you!

Dancing and Singing Ichi

2007-02-11T09:31:00.000+08:00

Ichi is dancing and singing as his Papa is singing while playing the guitar.

Dining Ichi

2007-01-19T11:32:00.000+08:00

Below is a video of Ichi taking his dinner sumptuously while his Mama and Papa are watching the 7pm bilingual news.

Of Morning Sickness, Motion Sickness, and the Trips to Makurazaki and Kirishima

2007-01-18T20:47:00.000+08:00

November 3, 2006, Nats and I learned that we are blessed with another offspring. Nats called it a subarashii (which he meant great and happy) news. Actually, it is 6 months ahead of our plan to have another baby – supposed to be in time for Nats to finish all his masters requirements and will not be very busy as he will just be starting his doctorate work. Anyhow, it is still a very welcome news. We are grateful for this additional blessing and are even sooooo excited to meeting our “Ni” (the baby's generic name as we don't know the gender yet).

No matter how subarashii this news, however, the following 2 ½ months was simply a challenge! My bout with morning sickness was terrible! Frequent throwing out and nausea were just too much to bear. Fortunately, Ichi seemed to understand that his little sibling is growing in my tummy. When I was dizzy and that I need to rest, and after explaining to him that I am not feeling well, he just played with his toys alone. Most of the time, I really laid in bed and fell asleep. When I woke up, he was already beside me sleeping soundly. Nats has been terrific too in ensuring my comfort amid his bulk of work in the lab. He managed to stay up late at night to do the house chores so that things will be lighter for me. He was also excellent to meeting my petty and serious demands, and soothed me in my little tantrums (wink, wink! hihi). Thanks to the ever patient and understanding hubby dearest (triple wink!).

To divert my attention, we made it a point to join various activities like the Makurazaki City Bus Tour sponsored by Kagoshima International Citizen Society (KICS). This city is about 1 ½ hours bus trip from our place. Ichi was very excited. He did not mind waking up two hours earlier than his usual waking time and walked from our apartment to the bus station (about 800 meters away) – his longest walk by then. His excitement was interrupted though by throwing out. We were seated at the back so we could really feel the abrupt movements of the bus in a zigzaggy road. We requested out tour guide to transfer us in front. We were transferred instead to an emergency car on the premise that smaller vehicles move smoothly and we can open the car windows so that Ichi can breath a fresh air. After several stops when Ichi was like throwing out, he finally fell asleep while hugging the big Doraemon stuff toy lent to him by the owner of the emergency car who was also driving us. Thanks to KICS staff for being so prepared and so helpful!

We rejoined the group at the Sochu (sweet potato wine) and Saki (rice wine) Manufacturing Plant where Ichi seemed to forget already his ordeal earlier. He was back to his old contagious happy self where he got every person he met grinning. We also visited a dried bonito (a kind of Tuna) factory and tasted a soup made out of this product and misu soup. Hmm...yum, yum! We also watched a performance of Makurazaki folks during the program with the city mayor. We even tried banging the drums.

By the way, our family paid nothing in this bus tour. We were just asked to bring one Filipino dish for the food festival (one of the activities during the tour). We brought menudo. This menudo is an instrument that our family was featured in a lifestyle magazine - plus, plus, plus, we were given a big framed family picture, photo album containing the pictures which the magazine's cameraman took when he and the writer went to our apartment, and a Y3,000 worth of tosho cards (gift checks to buy books) . Thanks to menudo, hihihi!

Moreover, one Friday night while we were chatting with our family back home, Dr. Da (a Filipino faculty member in Nats' college) viewed Ichi on webcam and dropped a message inviting us to join her and her husband, Rod, in a trip to Kirishima City the following day. They rented a 5-seater car from Toyota. Without so much ado, Nats said yes. And yes, we had a great time in Kirishima with all the awesome traces of autumn, yakiniku dinner, family (private) onsen, eat-all-you-can breakfast at Kirishima Kanko Hotel and a play in the park. Except for another show of motion sickness when we went astray in a zigzaggy road while looking for the children's park, Ichi enjoyed the trip too! We are sharing some pictures below. Thanks to Rod and Da for the hitch!

Ichi's First Zoo Trip

2006-10-13T14:24:00.000+08:00

"What do we see at the Zoo
What do we see at the Zoo-zoo-zoo
What do we see when we're walking to
A wonderful day at the Zoo-zoo-zoo
A wonderful day at the Zoo!" goes the song of Barney, BJ and Baby Bop when they went to the Zoo.

Our family visited the Hirakawa Zoological Park one sunny Saturday. This was our first zoo trip since the birth of Ichi. Like Baby Bop, it was Ichi's "most wonderful day in his whole entire life" seeing all the live lions, tigers, kangaroos, koalas, miercats, giraffes, zebras, penguins, flamingoes, rhinoceros - among so many animals we cannot readily see everyday!

We are sharing some pictures herewith. We really wished all Ichi's cousins were with us esp. that day - it would surely be more more fun!

Hirakawa Zoological Park Gate

Papa & Ichi at Hirakawa Zoological Park Gate

Mama & Ichi looking at the Giraffes and Rhinoceros; Zebras and Flamingoes in the background

Mama & Ichi looking at the Giraffes and Rhinoceros

Mama & Ichi with Giraffes, Zebras and Rhinoceros in the background

Mama & Ichi looking at Giraffes, Zebras and Rhinoceros

Ichi looking at the sign; Ostrich, Giraffes and Rhinoceros in the background

Ichi playing with the Penguins

Ichi playing with the Penguins 02

Mama & Ichi looking at the Penguins

Ichi playing with elephants in the background

Different sizes of eggs displayed in the Zoo

Ichi enjoying the horse ride during lunch break at the Zoo

Ichi's lunch at the Zoo

Papa & Ichi watching the Tiger

buwan ng wika experience

2006-09-22T18:19:00.000+08:00

hi im jamjam, sorry if im late to post the buwan ng wika experiences with my sister ate lovelove

i am a contestant of the theater accent in buwan ng wika and my sister is a participant of the KKK (Kakaibang Klase Kayo) last september 1,2006 that is friday all the tense are overcome to me and ate is only calm of that day.....

Official Family Web Portal

2006-09-11T15:55:00.000+08:00

Our family just created a new web portal. Please click any text in this posting to see our official site. Please note, however, that we will still continue to write articles in this blogsite.

Thank you.

The New Angel of Pilapil Family

2006-09-03T13:39:00.000+08:00

Baby Jed with mommy Betty

Baby Jed are you sleepy?

Baby is sleeping

Baby Jed gising na, gising na........

Baby Jed why are you cying?

The new angel of the Pilapil family is Jed Zirene baby of Tita Dora and Tito Robert (but now the baby is in Tita Betty and Tito Jocjoc's house). His birthdate is August 26, 2006 in General Santos City. They are very happy of that baby, but for safe Tita Betty and Tito Jocjoc get the baby because they have no boy child. All of their children are girls (Ate Darling and Honey). Tito Jocjoc is very happy of baby Jed.

Ichi's First Hanabi

2006-08-22T21:21:00.000+08:00

Last August 19, Ichi (with Papa and Mama) had a great time watching a firework display for the first time. It is called "hanabi" in Japanese. We biked toward the international port of Kagoshima, where we had a good view of the fireworks except for some palm trees blocking our full view. But the Bosche Car Service Center had a platform so some people were with us watching this million-yen spectacle. We decided to watch from there because of its proximity to our apartment and as we went nearer the Dolphin Port, the center of the "hanabi", it was getting crowded with so many people walking or biking just like us and there were many cars too, whether parked or moving.

Ichi, like any normal toddler his age, was only interested in the colorful display for a few minutes. After which, he began to look at other spectators and showed his heart-warming smiles. Of course, as always, he won new admirers especially the old ones, even if they were intently focused on the "hanabi" and were silent or had serious looks on their faces the whole time. He waved goodbyes after the fireworks and once again left them with grins on their faces. Che and I were happy too to see how Ichi made some people's heart lighter. Ichi made us realize also that we may enjoy the spectacle of a firework display but there is more to it than keeping our eyes focused in the sky!

We were able to capture some pictures of the fireworks and hopefully you will get a nice glipmse of that event.

My Hubby's 34th Birthday Bash

2006-08-14T09:18:00.000+08:00

Nats celebrated his 34th birthday with a cake I decorated (yes, Ate Betty, I already produced a cake! Can you believe it? Haha! Thanks to Taiyo's chiffon and Meiji's whip cream!). I also decided to do away from our usual dining out during birthdays and surprised him instead by cooking beef steak, chicken mechado (hmm... yummy, yummy!), lumpia shianghai and his favorite - the spaghetti Filipino style. I then called him at his laboratory to invite 3 - 5 friends for a dinner at home. He ended up inviting seven. He would have invited all of our Filipino colleagues here if I have not stopped him as I have no more time to prepare for more than 7 persons. He said, I ended up more surprised than he was to bring in more guests than I could have accomodated! Bwehehe!

As usual, Ichi was very happy to be with other people especially in our home. He enjoyed playing "soccer-soccer" and riding in motorbike-toy with his Manong Roem, riding in his made believe horse in the strong neck of his Ninong Audie, walking around with his Ninangs Lota and Shirley, and talking to his Tita Elena and Ninong Rande with his wife, Reyna, who just arrived 3 days ago from Bacolod City.

Nats seemed to enjoy more this kind of celebration than dining out in a fancy restaurant as he always loves to share his happiness with his family and friends in an informal but memorable setting.

Below are some pictures we took that night. HAPPY-HAPPY BIRTHDAY, theart!

Nats with (from left) Elena, Shirley, Audie, Rande and Reyna

Blowing of cake where Roem and Ichi's energy are all out to aid Nats, bwihihi

Nats slicing his cake

Ichi eating sumptuously his Papa's birthday cake

Ichi enjoying the horse-riding

Family pose

In addition, a joint welcome, wedding anniversary and birthdays(for July and August) party for Nats and other Pinoys in Kagoshima was also held at Ryuugakusei Kaikan on August 20 after church. Occasion like this is always looked forward by pinoys here as this is usually the only chance we see and/or chat longer and eat Filipino dishes. The celebration was very lively with the presence of many children. Below are some pictures during this event:

The reason for celebration

During Preparation

The birthday papa feeding Ichi during the preparation

The party folks

Birthday Papa and Ichi enjoying the party

The improvised pabitin

A pose (Erika, what are you doing to Ichi and Father Sta. Maria?)

The food. Hmm... yum,yum!

Ichi in Action

2006-08-13T12:43:00.000+08:00

Nats and I are very excited to see Ichi building his blocks.

We used to employ blocks as towers to guard him from going somewhere dangerous to a toddler (electric sockets, tables he can climb to, TV, etc.). But right now he is not afraid with them anymore. In fact, he already developed a scheme how to collapse them safely by taking the blocks one at a time from top to bottom. And what is more amusing to us, he can now build them himself up to seven blocks.

Nihongo Challenging Home Stay Experience

2006-08-11T10:54:00.000+08:00

We participated as host family in this year's home stay program for kids of Kagoshima International Association (KIA). Our adopted child for a day is Kenshiro-kun, an eight-year-old from Taniyama.

It was fun and the experience was indeed Nihongo refreshing as we had to literally scout for words to communicate to Kenshiro whose English was challenged too. ;-)

We prepared Filipino food such as adobo, biko, spaghetti - Filipino style (sauce a bit sweet and with hotdog), corn delight and pinakbet, allowed our adopted child to take a bath in Filipino way where he actually asked why he will not have ofuro (soak in bath tub with warm water after shower), and played soccer and pingpong with some of our Filipino friends. Among the dishes we served to him, he liked adobo more with gusto. We also brought him when we visited a friend in a hospital and when we went to church.

Below are some pictures during the event:

Family pose with Kenshiro at home; Kenshiro's gift (dinosaurs drawing) in the background

Nats is showing Kenshiro pictures on Philippines

Ichi and Kenshiro trying Ichi's Birthday hats

Ichi and Kenshiro playing with Origami

Our family with Kenshiro's family after the closing program at KIA

High School Experience

2006-08-06T08:08:00.000+08:00

Hi i'm jamjam, now i am high school, I always travel everyday from Banga to my school, NOTRE DAME of MARBEL UNIVERSITY INTEGRATED BASIC EDUCATOIN DEPARTMENT around 15 km. that is also the school of my older sister, ate lovelove.i'm always tired from school i am a leader in our groupings they are all "pasaway" and when i go home i am tired that is why i cannot study my lessons well,but when the exams come i will study well "para hindi mabagsak ang grades".that's all for now,next week another story about my high school life.

jamjam a member of the family website.

2006-08-05T15:02:00.000+08:00

hi, i'm Junfe Al Mark Pilapil or Jamjam a new member of the family website.I'm so happy that I am a new member of our website i want you to be a member we are only 6 members there name are: mama feng/ate feng,papa junie/manoy junie,tta che,tto nats,ate lovel0ve,and me.i invite you to be a member i'm only 12 years old but i am a member pls relatives and friends be a member it is beautiful to be a member like me.

Jamjam's Summer 2006 Experiences

2006-08-05T14:55:00.000+08:00

Ang ginawa namin ng summer 2006. Ako pala si jamjam o kuya jamjam sa masbata sa akin.Nung nadito pa sila tita Che at Baby Ichi umaga palang gising na c ichi para mag jogging doon sa Lamsugod, Surallah So. Cot.. Si tita che ay pagod pa noon umiiyak c ichi kasi nasanay na siya na makakita ng mga tao. Ang ginawa pa namin pumunta kmi sa Gensan pinuntahan namin ang aming pinsan at umulan pa noon pero nagpatuloy parin kami basta makapunta lang kmi sa Gensan. Naligo kami sa LONDON BEACH. Ang saya-saya namin nun. Tapos may nakita kmi ni Jp, Kier, kuya Ian, Ja at ate Darling ng maliliit na shark o baby shark. Tapos umuwi na sila tta sa japan parang "magmingaw" sa bahay nila lolo at lola kasi nawala na c baby ichi. Sana nagandahan kayo sa isinulat ko. Sa susunod naman...

At ito ilan sa mga litrato namin:

birthday celebration nina lolo berto at tito toto sa london beach

ako sa ilalim ng lupa noong birthday celebration nina lolo berto at tito toto sa london beach

nilalaro namin si baby ichi sa bahay nila lolo at lola

ang aming hiking nila tta che, baby ichi, ja at honey

ang aming peaceful pose sa bahay nila lolo at lola

talon sa london beach noong birthday celebration nina lolo berto at tito toto

birthday celebration nina lolo berto at tito toto sa london beach

ang aming pose sa pinyahan sa lamsogod

ang aming "pakuno-kuno" na jogging sa lamsogod highway

maagang-maaga na jogging namin nina tita che at baby ichi sa lamsogod highway

ang masarap na babana-q ng lamsogod coop

sina lolo at lola kasama si baby ichi

ang aming samurai pose sa sala nila lolo at lola

ang paghatid namin kina tita che at baby ichi sa Gensan airport

the cousins and mommy rose eating the yummy tilapia and drinking the refreshing iced tea

Jam's First Post

2006-08-04T21:14:00.000+08:00

hi everyone i'm Junfe Al Mark M. Pilapil or called as jamjam or kuya jamjam to his younger cousins.........sorry if i hurt you im sorry sorry talaga my dearest cousins

me and my tantalizing look

me and my DJ look

me and my siblings

me and my dear jazz

the flying me

me and my girls - little sis, JA and cousins!

the BIG me

the wet me and my BIG tummy!

another BIG me

my BIG ate and baby ichi

me and my graduation day

it's another me and my graduation day

The Cousins on Summer 2006

2006-07-16T11:05:00.000+08:00

Below are some of our poses on Summer 2006. Whew... we really had fun!

Nats Corner

2006-07-16T10:24:00.000+08:00

This is just a test. I am just trying if my membership account is working.

I have not figure out yet what topics to write here. Just visit this post again... naks!

Thoughts from a New Team Member

2006-07-15T22:47:00.000+08:00

Hello!

I am just added as new team member of this family site. I can now post articles here using my own username. Other family members can be a team member too by informing the administrator (pilapil_family@yahoo.com) about your email address so that she can send you an invitation. Right now, there are four team members in this site: The administrator, Junnie-Fe, Nats and me.

Best regards everyone! Looking forward to an exciting updating through this site!

Love's First Post

2006-07-15T21:04:00.000+08:00

Presenting....

The Pilapil Kids...

Junfelle Love
Joaney
John Ian rae
Junfe Al Mark
Jether Paul
Junfelle Aye
Joannah
John Robert
John Christian
Jeffrey Jones
Jazz David Jay
Joshua Ichiro
Jerome Alfon
Kier Brian

Actually, I am just practising how to post. Will update this article after my investigatory research and UPCAT.

Ichi's First Birthday

2006-07-10T00:08:00.000+08:00

Dear Family and Friends,

Time flies so fast. Ichi is now one year old! We were very excited and we really wished you were all here to celebrate with us. As it was impossible, we are just happy to share what we did through this posting.

Here is to hope that everyone is doing well.

Love,
Nats & Che

*****************************************************

The Invitation

*****************************************************

The Program

1. Opening Remarks by Papa Nats
2. A 10-minute video presentation of Ichi's 1^st year “highlights”
3. Opening Prayer by Ninong Mario
4. Cake Ceremony
5. Merienda Time
6. Games
7. Merienda time again until 'sawa'

*****************************************************

The Party

Here is what Papa Nats said in his opening remarks:

Good afternoon!

You might notice I am a little bit nervous. It is because this is one of my few tasks in this occasion and I have to do this. Otherwise, I will be outside of the kulambo for the rest of the week. So bear with me for awhile.

Today, Cherry and I are the happiest and proudest parents because our first son, Ichi, is celebrating his first birthday.

Not only that, this day is special because you, our friends, are here to share with us our happiness for Ichi is a God-given gift and more so because he is a testimony to an answered prayer.

For more than 3 years Che was not able to conceive no matter how we tried hard in the Philippines. Fortunately, the climate of autumn here in Kagoshima, particularly at Kaikan, provided the perfect timing for Ichi's unexpected but wanted conception.

So the rest was a story of Nihonggo-challenging encounters especially for Che who had to go through the pregnancy and delivery without guidance from Ichi's grandmas.

One year ago, at about 6 in the morning, we finally saw for the first time God's finest creation. From that day on, our little bundle of joy, had brought smiles to our faces and made our hearts even more grateful and thankful. Our funny experiences as novice and Nihoggo-challenged parents go on and many times just make us laugh. But health-related concerns can be worrisome, as many of you already knew.

But we live each day with a grateful heart for every moment and each milestone in Ichi's growth is an awesome wonder. As you will see in the following 10-minute video presentation of some highlights in his development.

So today, like little children, let us celebrate. Just enjoy the show, the games and the foods!

There were only 3 kids in this baby's birthday party. Ichi's celebration was actually enjoyed most by the grown ups. Below are the child-like games we played during the party:

Ichi is Special
We placed a current photo of Ichi in a sketch paper with a wide margin which we inserted in a frame (without glass). Throughout the party we asked the guests to write a special birthday message for Ichi. After the party we glassed the frame and hanged this special keepsake in our room.

Portrait time
This was done with no artistic pressure. We gave every guest some crayons and a sketch paper in a frame (without glass yet) then held Ichi in the area where everyone can see him. When Che (the one who moderated the game) said "Go" players had 30 seconds to draw Ichi. When the time was up the paper was passed on to the next guest until everyone had drawn Ichi. Roem-chan, one of the kids, served as a judge by pointing the best drawing. After the party we made a collage using all of the sketches and framed it. It is cute! Talk about an original work of art.

Ichi's Firsts Guessing Game
We threw to our guests 3 questions: (1) When did Ichi leave the hospital after birth?, (2) When was Ichi baptized?, and (3) When did Ichi return from his Philippine vacation? Guests who answered all the questions correctly won the prize.

Ichi's Word Puzzle
We asked our guests to form word/s from Ichi's name (first from the word Joshua, then Joshua Ichiro, then Joshua Ichiro Pilapil and finally Joshua Ichiro Pilapil Anasco). The first guest to form the longest word in each category won. The player with most number of wins out of 4 chances, got the prize. We mentioned that in case of a tie, winners will share the prize.
The words formed from Joshua are HAS and ASH. The longest words found in Joshua Ichiro were the 6-letter CHAIRS, CHOIRS and CHORUS while in Joshua Ichiro Pilapil was the 8-letter CORIOLIS
And finally, the 12-letter word SCHOLARSHIPS was formed from Joshua Ichiro Pilapil Anasco.
Wow, we hope that Ichi would really turn out to be a scholar too!

Ichi's Arithmetic
The guests were asked to count the number of letters of Ichi's names. (Joshua - 6, Ichiro - 6, Pilapil-7 and Anasco-6) then to add, multiply, subtract and divide the numbers. Players who had most number of correct answers won.

*****************************************************

The Birthday

On Ichi's birthday, 10 July 2004, we exclusively celebrated again at Don Family Steak House - our current favorite restaurant. We enjoyed a sumptuous dinner of steak for Papa Nats and Mama Che, and yummy corn soup for Ichi. Ichi also got vegies and fruits toys as gift from the staff. Here are pictures we managed to capture on this occasion:

*****************************************************

The Epilogue

Happy Birthday to me...

Seventeen days after his birthday, Ichi wore his birthday hat for the first time. He was very happy to do it!

*****************************************************

Berto and Conching 45th Wedding Anniversary and Inding Reunion

2006-06-23T20:36:00.000+08:00

Mr. and Mrs. Roberto Pilapil, Sr. celebrated their 45th wedding anniversary on 22 April 2006. This celebration is a very significant and memorable one since the joint Inding Clan - SOCSARGEN and CECOWEV Inding Clan reunion were successfully held simultaneously at their house. All their children (except Nats who is out of the country then) and grandchildren participated in the success of the event.

Several games were played such as improvised "Maria went to Town" where the players will have to scout first all the things pertinent to the game that were scattered by the moderator around the Pilapil compound and "Basketball" without a ball. They were really fun to the point that everyone seemed to roll on the floor laughing!

An ecumenical worship service was also held during the night of the event which was officiated by Rev. Roberto Gauran, Sr.

A cake cutting and wine toast ceremonies were happily done. Mrs. Pilapil seemed to be kilig like a teenager when Mr. Pilapil sliced a cake for her. All the old married persons present were especially called in front to pray for the celebrating couple.

Around 70 clan members were present, many were from General Santos City. Sadly, clan members from the province of Zamboanga who were eager to attend the event did not make it due to financial constraint. Some clan members from out of the country also went home just in time to attend the reunion.

The next Inding Reunion will be held in 2008 to be hosted by clan members in Purok Placida, General Santos City.

Tita Che's 2006 Bday

2006-06-23T17:12:00.000+08:00

posted by Tito Nats

Tita Che had her 33rd birthday last June 20, 2006. Tito Nats treated her a special dinner at Don's Family Steak House together with baby Ichi. Tito Nats had a 180-g medium cooked whole steak with onion sauce, curry soup, vegetable salad, rice and cola while Tita Che had a 150-g medium cooked cut steak with onion sauce, corn soup, vegetable salad, rice and iced tea. They had a great time together since Ichi started to sit alone in a baby's chair without even a seat belt. This milestone in Ichi's development gave sometime for Tito Nats and Tita Che to eat freely together. Ichi also had a toy gift from the staff. Get a glimpse of that special day with the above picture.

In addition to that special dinner, together with our Filipino friends in Kagoshima, Che had a joint birthday celebration with Rande (guy sitting with a red shirt) on June 17, 2006 in our small apartment. We had somen, cold noodles dipped in special dashi soup garnished with fresh onions and a little wasabi, as our main dish. Che and Rande also hadtheir surprise improvised cakes with candles to blow. We also watched a World Cup game between Portugal and Iran where Portugal won by 2 points. See the above picture of that wonderful day.

The Family Members

2006-06-21T21:52:00.000+08:00

Berto and Conching Pilapil

Roberto Quinamage Pilapil, Sr., popularly known as Lolo Berto was born on March 27, 1941 in Dipolog City.

Concesa Manginsay Inding-Pilapil who is fondly called as Lola Conching was born on April 8, 1942 at Dipolog City.

Lolo Berto and Lola Conching fell in love and got married on April 22, 1961.

The fruits of their love produced 5 handsome sons and 4 beautiful daughters namely: Ruperto (Junnie), Rosalie (Inday Rose), Rosalyn (Lilyn), Roberto (Joc-joc), Robert (Bem), Rosemarie (Nene), Cherry (Che), Chito (Toto) and Cheibert Jay (Nonoy).

Lolo Berto and Lola Conching are now happily retired in their homeplace managing a small store.

Lolo Berto loves to sing videoke with his ihados and taking care of his fighting cocks while Lola Conching is always busy with church activities and sharing her smiles to everyone.

Junnie and Family

Junnie is the eldest among the 9 children. He was born on February 11, 1962 at Lamsogod, Surallah, South Cotabato. He is married to Fe Rosa Macalam who is fondly known as Ate Feng or Mama Feng in the family. Their lovely children are Junfelle Love (Love-love), Junfe Al Mark (Jam-jam) and Junfelle Aye.

Rose

Rosalie - Mommy Rose to all the nephews and neices, Manay to her younger siblings, and Inday to her parents and older brother- is the 2nd child. She opted to stay single and has been a breadwinner of the family. Her younger siblings are all grateful for all her sacrifices so that they all acheived what they are now.

Lilyn and Family

Rosalyn, fondly called as Lilyn, is the 3rd child and is the living example of Jesus Christ in the family. She is a Pre-school teacher and is happily married to Orlando Esteban who is dearly called as Orlan in the family. John Ian Rae (Ian) and Jether Paul (JP) are their wonderful sons.

Joc-joc and Family

Roberto, Jr. is Joc-joc to the family. He is always a source of wit when all else are simply too serious. He is married to Betty Jean Lugan who is superb in pastries and cakes cooking. They have two beautiful daughters: Joaney, fondly called us Darling and Joannah, lovingly called us Honey or Sweet in the family.

Robert and Family

Robert, often called as either Bem or Rob, is the 5th child in the family. He is married to Adora Rakinaung who is fondly known as Dora or Auntie Dora to everyone. They have two boys now, namely John Robert (JR) and John Christian (JC), and another one is on the way due on September.

Nene and Family

Rosemarie, fondly called as Nene in the family, is the 6th child. She is an accountant and is happily married to a very kind man, Fred Cagunda. Jeffrey Jones, nicknamed JJ, is their only child.

Cherry and Family

Che is the 7th child in the family. She is married to Nathaniel Cal Anasco also known as Tito Nats. Tita Che and Tito Nats have a lovely boy named Joshua Ichiro whose nickname is Ichi.

Toto and Family

Chito, the businessman in the family, is fondly called as Toto and the 8th child. He is married to Bernadette Reyes. Kerr Brian is their lovely child.

Nonoy and Family

Cheibert Jay, dearly called as Nonoy to the family, is the youngest. He has two sons namely, Jazz and Jepoy. He is married to beautiful Gaga (Maricel Bustamante).