Dear Loved Ones,

            Pleasant Greetings Sacramento, CA, USA!  Happy to be back in the US on March 16 via DELTA/ Narita, after the 3-months Pinas sojourn and I already miss the fresh mangoes, the chaotic barangay ambience, family and friends, the hectic corporate activities at FSAC with the presence of Toei Sans (permanent Ueda san, neatly dressed and smelling fresh), and many more, Thanks GOD!

The first week was spent in Bohol for reunion with family and friends: Thanksgiving Mass and Lunch with Fr. Victor, Demie, Baby C, Weng B., among family; followed with Dinner at the residence of Chief Engr. Juie F. and Geraldine; a visit with Fr. Felix H. at his gorgeous residence. I could imagine considering retirement in Bohol, spending days with books in his beautiful gardens. Another day we visited Panglao Mayor Nila Montero who entertained us with stories on her background and experiences; her feminine touch is obvious in the interiors of the complex. Ash Wednesday Mass was followed with chit-chat with the ladies, who reminisced on the ‘drama days’ where I was a child actress, while they acted as my ‘mom’ and contravida; laughing at all the fond memories!

We had a taste of nightlife at the swanky Bellevue Hotel, Panglao by Doljo white beach, listening to jazz music, tourists jamming, and watching the starry clear blue skies – nature so beautiful! After visiting the cemetery of our folks and relatives, I was driven to the airport by the red Ford Everest of Geraldine F. driven by Julius and escorted by Ms. Ivy; conveniences like these make Bohol visits truly more fun! Likewise, my visit was highlighted with the handing of my share by Kuya Rudy part of our parent’s treasures – so Blessed! By the way, on the plane to Manila with me was Sister Linda Carandang, a Sister of Mercy who is based in Sacramento, CA, I am expecting to touch base with in CA.

Back in Manila, I attended to my physical fitness with visits to my dentist (Dr. Beth Castro) and dialectologist (Dr. Elwin Fernando) for the needed prescriptions. I t was nice to learn the updates of the Castro kids who are Sean’s contemporaries, (RB and Carl are now dentists assuring them continuity of their dental business) and they also got condo units at the BGC Bellagio and 8 Forbestown Road, looking forward to be neighbors.

Other highlights:

·      Last week in Pinas featured despedida eat-outs with the following: Lunch at Banapple, SMNE with Ms. Cora (also her birthday treat), Elvie S. and Linda; Lunch-meeting with my NVSC partners (Arlene M. and Ozone) at California Pizza, BGC; Lunch treat by our external auditor Doray at the Manila Hotel with Gerry, Ueda san and Jessica, together with 2 of her staff. She also gave me flashy souvenirs; Doray and I started our respective businesses same time 17 years ago, and we are both blessed to have prospered gracefully with God’s guidance;

·      To further enhance FSAC’s innovations, I implemented the ‘Officer of the Week and Good housekeeper of the Day’ system to help monitor effective / efficient office Infrastructure (Plan, Check, Do, Act) on improvements;

·      We signed the documents for the purchase of a condo unit 24H; terms: 50% Cash at 16% discount, balance over 24 months at 0% interest – a good investment deal; considering that bank deposit does not earn that much!  

·      So blessed to be invited to attend the Ordination of Bishop Myron Cotta at the Sacramento Blessed Sacrament Cathedral on March 25, Feast of the Annunciation, which is also Sean’s birthday, courtesy of Fr. George Snyder;

·      The last week was spent with various eat-outs for Sean’s birthday: lunch at Red Lobster, dinner with co-celebrant nurse Red at FATS Folsom, followed by movie Divergent at Palladio;

·      Sean had 4 events to celebrate: his birthday, he got his MBA diploma from National University, he moved to a new job position at CALPERS as Program Evaluator / Public Agency Audit, and he got his 3^rd degree Knights of Columbus – thanks GOD!

Attached are 4 photos with family and friends. Let us continue to pray for our country and people. Peace and Joy to You and God Bless Us All!

Much love and Best Regards!!!

SUSAN BG