15 Things About My SuperMom

Today is my mom's 76th birthday. As a tribute to this strong woman, I am writing about why my mom deserves all the accolade. Here are 15 things about my mom that makes her stand out from other equally great mothers:

1. At 76 years old, my mom is stronger than a 40 year old office employee. Mama attends aerobics sessions every morning at 8 am. During Thursdays, she attends a Zumba class.

2. She was widowed at the age of 54.

3. At 42 years old, my mom finished first in a 10 kilometer race for the Womens 40-60 age group.

4. She earned a degree in Banking and Finance from the University of Santo Tomas, where she met my father who was then enrolled in the College of Medicine.

5. She's the third child in a brood of 5 girls, namely Norma, Remedios, Amparo Teresa, Caridad and Gloria.

6. Her father was killed by the Japanese soldiers during World War II. Mama was only 6 years old then. Her youngest sister was still in their mother's womb when this tragedy happened.

7. During the Liberation period, her most convincing line to the American soldiers was "Hey Joe! Give me soap! Give me towels! Give me corned beef!" 

8. She is a strict disciplinarian.

9. My mom is a great cook! The aroma coming from her kitchen is so inviting. It is because of this talent that made her and dad venture into the catering business.

10. She is also diabetic and has some hearing impairment but that would not keep her from watching her favorite soaps, especially if Piolo Pascual is in the lead role.

11. She's a true-blue Batangueño. 

12. She now has 6 grandchildren. Three girls and three boys.

13. Her favorite color is red - Open her closet and you'll notice that her sweat pants, exercise shirts, sneakers, slippers, blouses, skirts, handbags and purses have to have some red color in them, if not totally red.

14. Mom has a very good singing voice. She said she may have gotten it from her father who was a "cantor" (lead singer in the church choir) before he was killed.

15. She can be a monster-in-law, if she feels that her child is on the losing end. However, once you really get to know her, she can also be the sweetest mom.

I could go on and on writing about my mom and how I look up to her as a role model of what "motherhood" is all about. However, right this minute, all I can say is.... 

HAPPY BIRTHDAY, Mama! 

May you be blessed with many many more birthdays! 

I may not say it as often as I should, but just to let you know... I love you, Mama. 

Have a great birthday!