It's been a while since my mom left. I wouldn't be truthful if I said I was okay after she departed. Truth to tell, I was a wreck, a miserable wreck for a very long time. She was the very first in our family to depart and as is believed to be the case, it was a very painful and sad separation indeed.

I can still remember a year after she left, I went to a store with the intent of buying a Mother's Day card only to realize I no longer had her to give the card to.

It was difficult for me to get used to the idea that she had gone on ahead of us. I am fine now although there is no denying that my life has not been the same without her around.

I am truly thankful to God for giving her to me. Not every one can boast of a mother like her. She was sweet, loving, caring, and thoughtful. She was the very core of our family.

I cannot thank her enough for everything she has done for me. I miss her terribly.

Happy Mother's Day, Ma.

This was taken at a professional photographer's studio in Manila right after she stood as principal sponsor in a family friend's military wedding.

Happy Mother's Day! I know you are watching over me every single day. I know.