Goodbyes and Ironies

Today is Chinese Valentine's Day (七夕情人節). It falls on the 7th day of the 7th lunar month in the Chinese calendar (which is today). According to tradition, the festival celebrates the meeting of the cowherd and weaver girl in Chinese mythology. Whatever that is, if you are in a Chinese country, and in a relationship, then you get to celebrate Valentine's twice. Magastos nga lang haha! The flower shop near my place has been working overtime the last 3 days. Thank you, Auntie Maria for the cake!

I'm so glad July's over. It was depressing, hence the one-month absence in the blogosphere. I wanted some time to just take it all in. People leaving and me not knowing what to do with my life. I can't imagine sending off someone so dear to me here in Taipei... the person I consider my rock and inspiration. She is the only person I can talk to with just about anything and will not judge. I remember crying my heart out to her during my life's darkest days.  She was the one who told me to just cry and let it out, and that I cannot always be the strong girl that I am. And so I did, I cried like a little girl, and she sat there quietly with me and listened with all her heart.

I cried for days when I learned she was leaving Taipei for good. We thought we did a great job surprising her when we organized a mini concert party for her birthday, but we didn't know she had an even bigger surprise to all. She gave me the tightest of all hugs before she went to the boarding gate. I will remember all your bilins, Auntie F. I will always try to be good, to do good, and to never lose faith. See you soon in Manila!

Hay I hate goodbyes. I think I attended about 4 sendoff gatherings last month. And here I am, just a couple of days away from lodging my APRC application. APRC is the permanent residency certificate here in Taiwan. They grant permanent residency to expats who have worked for 5 straight years without gaps. If my application will be approved, that means I can stay in Taiwan for as long as I want even without a job (and maybe apply for citizenship, but I'm not too keen on that). For the past 5 years, my residency here is sponsored by the companies I work for. Basically, you cannot stay here unless you have official business-- like education or employment. And I'm applying for this when everyone seems to be leaving. How ironic. Lord, please lead the way na lang po.

Sharing some things that brought smile despite having a bad month-- my new set of bedding, afternoon catch up sesh with friends at Cafe de Riz and a yummy chocolate crinkle recipe!