*My apologies dear friends if my usual advocacy, events, food and travel posts will be delayed. I will temporarily be offline, probably a week or two to mourn the passing of my aunt who has been a second mother to me..Ms. Berlina Mamales Arevalo.

Nanay Inday with some of her happy wards (Mamales Grand Reunion, December 2007, Club Filipino)

*I cannot pour into words the deep sorrow and the void inside me..this eulogy by our cousin in Australia Ms. Toni Best, I guess sums up what we (nieces and nephews) feel. We, whom “Nanay Inday” have taken cared of by batches at one time or another whenever our parents are abroad, assigned to regions or simply out for an errand or two.

*I admit I was in denial of her passing (still wearing black when it should be white frocks as agreed by the family) until late this afternoon when I was en route to her wake at Nacional Funeral Homes in Araneta Avenue. I kept telling myself she’s just in the White House (Tita Sally’s) in Lagro recuperating fast from her stroke a few months ago. She was responding well to medicines and physical therapy. Then it hit me, “face it, she’s gone..”

When I received the text message (3:06AM Manila Time) that she was gone, it took a good five minutes for me to understand the message..or accept it. I composed myself and then shook my sister from her slumber; “Ate, wala na si Nanay Inday..” (“Sister, Nanay Inday is gone..”). No tears, I kept telling myself..I have to remain strong because my sister also suffered a stroke the very same as Nanay Inday.

Mines View, Baguio City (January 2008)

The flock of family and friends despite the heavy monsoon rains is deeply appreciated. Later (6th of June 2009), relatives from abroad and other regions will arrive especially Nanay Inday’s siblings..well, except for our father who went ahead of her a few years ago that is. Last day/night of the wake, cremation on Sunday at Heritage Park in Taguig..more tears, but I know that is not what Nanay Inday would have wanted. She’s at peace now, she spent 80 glorious years, unselfishly shared her wisdom..and yes, eventhough she was strict, frank or blunt at times..most of her “sermons” or “stories” are precious.

“Thank you Nanay Inday.. I ( your Ging-ging) will always remember your timeless advice (to pray before going out of the house, to eat on time, to bargain for the best deal, to strive for the best, etc.)..I now let you go into the arms of Our Creator. “Te quiero mucho..adios”.

Lola Consor, Nanay Inday, Brigitte and Mama Lily at White House (Tita Sally’s), Lagro