Early morning of 23^rd May 2015, our grandchildren of three boys were very excited while my wife was preparing a light breakfast for them.  Yes, that was the big day for the boys once more; school vacation in the farm is over for Azrael, Raziel and Manuel Uziel.  They have to go back home in Pasig city and be ready for the school re-opening.

 

Times passes quickly and our four grandsons are growing fast.  JI the eldest is now 12 years old; the twin brothers, Azrael & Raziel are 10 years old; and the youngest that spent most of his boyhood in the farm, Manuel Uziel aka Kongkong is 6 years old.

 

 

Mary Ann and I were bit of sad because our normal farm routines will be lesser again; and the usual childish noise/mess in the farmstead that gives energetic and joyful vibrations will stop.  Yes, it’s time for an adjustment again for us – Lolo & Lola!

Oftentimes, many elders become less active in social interactions.  One reason I’ve seen is the hectic lifestyle and busy work schedule that gets in the way even for those who are staying with their children and grandchildren.  For Mary Ann and me, we make ourselves get involve in some physical activity and exercise or anything that would get our body moving frequently.  To remain active, healthy and independent is a must.

We also believed that to maintain/strengthen the precious Filipino virtues of love and gratitude for Lolos and Lolas, the Pinoy elders must be the one to lead and instigate.  If our children are busy with their money making quests, and our grandchildren engaged mindlessly in Clash of Clans, Blood Brothers2, and Game of War, don’t hesitate to interrupt and have a joyful conversation with them.

For my ever caring wife Lola Ann, the busy days are over and we have to fill up strongly the empty times now that were brought about by our grandchildren vacation end.

To do this, we have to go back to our usual practice of doing one task at a time, slowly and surely while humming a tune, gazing at each other's eyes whenever we bumped along the way (intentionally), teasing or tickling one another, listening to the chirping of birds while sitting, relaxing and sipping hot tea or coffee.

We just hope that our grandchildren will benefit from the examples we set in regard to eating and sleeping habits, cleanliness, exercise, and disease prevention during their stay in the farm.  No matter what, we’ll be here for them thru thick and thin; and their ups and downs moment that they shared with us will be treasured in our memories forever.