June 25, 2007

  • This weekend, I demonstrated a more domesticated side of me and gave my lola a manicure and pedicure. I am fortunate enough to have the equipment from when my mom was in cosmetology school. She taught me how to massage, soak and scrib, push back and trim cuticles, the proper way to trim, file, and buff nails, applying polish, and moisturizing. I think my lola felt pampered, and she said something like "maging-awa," the meaning of which I'm not entirely sure. It's amazing what a smile can do for a person.

    As I was carrying out the procedure, my lola told me more about her childhood, working on the farm and shelling rice with a mortar and pistle. She talked about Lola Apit, her oldest sister, and Lolo Casio, her oldest brother. It was such a therapeutic time. When we slow things down for a moment and live in the moment, we can appreciate life that much more.

    I am so lucky to still have my lola. At times, I worry myself sick. Other times, I could not be more caught up in the moment with her. It is certain, however, that the good times outnumber the bad.