Thanksgiving Feast 2008

Thank you, Los Angeles!

Thanks to you, we have raised over $600,000 and still counting!

Thank you. Two small words that have to go a long way.

On Sunday morning, October 5th, over 3,000 people came out and walked with the Alzheimer's Association to raise money in the fight against Alzheimer's disease. And what a beautiful day it was. A crisp, Fall morning in Downtown Los Angeles with thousands of folks joined by one thing: A passion and drive to end Alzheimer's disease. Our friends Leeza Gibbons, Tracie Thoms, Councilwoman Jan Perry, Ron Brown, Steve Edwards, Victor Garber, Peter Gallagher, Bob Goen, Rafer Johnson, Ron Rifkin, and Mayor Antonio Villaragosa helped us kick off the day in a grand, Downtown L.A. fashion. Walkers enjoyed a day filled with the sounds of The MVP's, browsed through over 70 vendors in our Health and Wellness Expo and enjoyed a leisurely, Sunday morning stroll through the streets of Downtown Los Angeles, past some of downtown's most interesting landmarks - Walt Disney Concert Hall, Bunker Hill and the Central Library. And some even got to see a future Hollywood blockbuster film shooting in the neighboring streets. A real L.A. walk with all the celebrities, glitz and glamour you'd expect. And the result? Because of you, we raised over $600,000 (and counting!) to fund our programs of care, support and research. And the Memory Walk made some milestones this year too:

We had 311 teams on Walk day, showing their colors and support for the Alzheimer's Association. That's 66 more than 2007!

Over 3,000 folks went to www.alzla.org/mw and registered themselves and their loved ones to join us on October 5th. That's more than any other year!

A special shout to top individual fundraiser Herb Hirsh and top team Team Kay Kay Mimi and Dorothy. Congrats on your success! We salute you!

So, whether you walked, volunteered or donated, please know that you made a real difference in the fight against Alzheimer's disease. That's something we can all be proud of! Without you, we simply could not carry out our mission of care and compassion and our vision of a world without Alzheimer's disease. Thank you.

We want to let you all know that we aren't stopping here, either. We still have donations coming in, and we encourage you to keep up your asks! Just because the Walk is over, doesn't mean that we are done with Memory Walk. Like that certain bunny, we just keep going. We're pleased to announce that the web site, www.alzla.org/mw, will remain open til the end of the year. So, keep those donations coming in!

If you'd like to send your donations in, send them to:

L.A. Memory Walk c/o WB Productions P.O. Box 1778 Fallbrook, CA 92088

Send out a Memory Walk Holiday e-mail to your family and friends and let them know that you and your team are still raising money in support of the Memory Walk. We know that the upcoming holidays will be a time to celebrate and give thanks for what we have in our lives, and the Memory Walk Team are grateful for all of you and the support you give us through the year.

Thank you.


Fundraising Fever! Try to get at least two more donations before November 1st to help the Alzheimer's Association reach its goal for FY 08! We can do it with your help!


For more information about Memory Walk or the California Southland Chapter of the Alzheimer’s Association, please contact:
Brian Welch
E-mail Address: brian.welch@alz.org
Phone Number: 323-930-6228
Website: www.alzla.org/mw

"Anak" By Freddie Aguilar (Translated in English)

Thank You for Sponsoring Memory Walk!

Awesome job Nina Aves & Maribelle Dizon for leading the way!

Froy & Maria Dizon
Thelma Mangahas
Leonard & Michelle Ayau
Myrnelle Dizon
Ruth & Ricky Manalo
Anthony Dizon
Ivy Alejandro
Alfredo Santiago
Jose Baldivia
Witty/Mendoza Family
Agnes Navarro
Leonor Tejador
Rudy Perez
Ed Wolf
Sylvia Onopa
Danielle & Carlos
Julie Pierce
Donna Onopa-Smith
Elisa Leonor
Cristine tacto Newman
Gerald Garden
Sandy Chang
Jennifer Olufson
Mia Barker
Daniel Zarate
Imelda Siocheng
Gabriel Garcia
Yvette Molina
Rosemarie Henson
Patricia Nistal
Rodnell Ponce


Jimfa Nispero
Kathleen Jose
Carlos Samplina
Ben Sandoval
Taleen Dersaroia
Jacob Lozano
Jeffrey Tonche
Peterbon Cambel
Karin Tran

For those who chose to donate anonymously…


Images provided by:
http://www.flickr.com/photos/finnefotography/2787621918/
http://www.flickr.com/photos/79741524@N00/382057521/
http://www.flickr.com/photos/digitalfemme57/2715966006/
http://www.flickr.com/photos/karemelia/2753008716/

Team Mama! Statistics

Hi Everyone,

WE HIT OUR TEAM GOAL!!!!!!


The Memory Walk went extremely well thanks to all of your love, support, and dedication! We had a great team and a huge turnout overall! But the numbers are still growing so spread the word! Please check http://2008memorywalkla.kintera.org/teammama for updates while there is still time!


Money Raised
Team Fundraising Goal: $1,000.00
Total Raised: $1,272.00 (and counting)


Members Recruited
Recruitment Goal: 30
Members Recruited: 20



Team Members:
Total Raised $1,272.00 (and counting)
General Team Donation $265.00

Nina Aves $25.00
Ivy Alejandro $45.00
Leonard Ayau $100.00
Michelle Ayau $100.00
Jose Baldivia $50.00
Froy Dizon $192.00
Maria Dizon $125.00
Maribelle Dizon $25.00
Myrnelle Dizon $165.00
Thelma Mangahas $40.00
cheyenne onopa $110.00
Alfredo Santiago $20.00
jeneelyn santiago $10.00
Omar Buenaventura
Neil Aves
Michelle Ocampo
Mike Notchey
Pamela Notchey
Andy Diaz
Connie Solis
Joaquin Gutierrez
Eleinor Inocencio

Maraming Salamat Po! (Thank you very much!) - Go Team Mama!

In loving memory of Agripina "Mama" Dizon.
Rest in Paradise.
June 23, 1922 - May 18, 2008


This is for you MA!

Memory Walk for MAMA (Sun. Oct. 5th)

Dear Pamilya (Family),

Remember when Mama was always proud that she walks around the block everyday and how she always has a straight back (good posture)unlike her peers? I'm sure she'll be proud of us too when she sees us walking as one family in honor of her.

Alzheimer's Association is hosting "Memory Walk" on Sunday, Oct 5 in Downtown LA. AND ITS FREE! Its a non-competitive 3 mile walk that raises money for Alzheimer's research and support those currently living with the disease. More importantly, we can have this day as a bonding event for the family! Yes?


- for more information: http://www.alz.org/memorywalk/overview.asp
- to register: http://2008memorywalkLA.kintera.org/teammama
click on: "Join our team"
read the waiver and click on "I Agree"


- its FREE to register!
The minimum fundraising goal is $200. You are not required to raise this much.

- you can sign up for this website and send the link to your friends and family to raise money!
To visit the team page directly: http://2008memorywalkLA.kintera.org/teammama

More information to come! but here's a few things you'd need to do for now!

-Reply if you are interested in participating to Nina Aves (ninaaves@gmail.com).
-Spread the word to your family, significant others, etc.
-Lastly, invest on a good pair of walking shoes!!!

With Love,

Joan <3

Angels Walk Too
Photo courtesy of https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEge5TBm2JlF4CT23jTEAHac3yxDfBdgQro4-Fb7_40yEn-nKoK3D8hg7Yhi4hKeSaUmysdGPAT5VQuODrZjnQ0cqR_q5RUHE4Z75Sg0sg6Nj3yv52hqTq3P_-4yz3cWn8PikTYgatUWAcg/s1600-h/Angel's+Walk+Too.jpg"><

Tea and Chit Chat

I dreamt of Mama and Yiaya walking together in a beautiful park and they came upon a table set up below a Willow tree, with this beautiful Tea Service awaiting them. They sat down, poured for each other and drank. Mama then said something in Tagalog that I didn't understand and yet Yiaya giggled, responded in Greek and they both laughed.

I understand the dream's origin, Nelly and I having done the very thing I described just last week. It was just incredibly comforting for me to see our Grandmothers together, keeping each other company, chit chatting over tea and giggling all the while as they were known to do in life. And the fact that they were able to communicate in their native languages, foreign to the other, just showed me how much a connection can transcend languages in our hearts...

-Pamela

Coffee Heart Photo Courtesy of www.flickr.com

Welcome Mama's Newest Great-Grandchildren!

Nicholas Joseph Aves

Big Bro Coby carrying David Brent Aves


Christian Derrik Nachor

Mama's Favorite Filipino Dish

Filipino Lumpia (Eggrolls)

PREP TIME 45 Min
COOK TIME 25 Min
READY IN 1 Hr 10 Min
Original recipe yield 30 lumpia

SERVINGS (Help)
Servings
US METRIC

INGREDIENTS (Nutrition)
1 tablespoon vegetable oil
1 pound ground pork
2 cloves garlic, crushed
1/2 cup chopped onion
1/2 cup minced carrots
1/2 cup chopped green onions
1/2 cup thinly sliced green cabbage
1 teaspoon ground black pepper
1 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon soy sauce
30 lumpia wrappers
2 cups vegetable oil for frying

DIRECTIONS:

Place a wok or large skillet over high heat, and pour in 1 tablespoon vegetable oil. Cook pork, stirring frequently, until no pink is showing. Remove pork from pan and set aside. Drain grease from pan, leaving a thin coating. Cook garlic and onion in the same pan for 2 minutes. Stir in the cooked pork, carrots, green onions, and cabbage. Season with pepper, salt, garlic powder, and soy sauce. Remove from heat, and set aside until cool enough to handle.

Place three heaping tablespoons of the filling diagonally near one corner of each wrapper, leaving a 1 1/2 inch space at both ends. Fold the side along the length of the filling over the filling, tuck in both ends, and roll neatly. Keep the roll tight as you assemble. Moisten the other side of the wrapper with water to seal the edge. Cover the rolls with plastic wrap to retain moisture.

Heat a heavy skillet over medium heat, add oil to 1/2 inch depth, and heat for 5 minutes. Slide 3 or 4 lumpia into the oil. Fry the rolls for 1 to 2 minutes, until all sides are golden brown. Drain on paper towels. Serve immediately.

SUBMITTED BY: LILQTPINAY23
http://allrecipes.com/Recipe/Filipino-Lumpia-2/Detail.aspx
"This is a traditional Filipino dish. It is the Filipino version of the egg rolls. It can be served as a side dish or as an appetizer."

Photo By:
TaGa_Luto
http://www.flickr.com/photos/fana_de_cuisine/2553720388/in/dateposted/

Mama: A Sign of Home

June 22 - July 22






Cancer, the fourth Sign of the Zodiac, is all about home. Those born under this Sign are 'roots' kinds of people and take great pleasure in the comforts of home and family. Cancers are maternal, domestic and love to nurture others. More than likely, their family will be large, too -- the more, the merrier! Cancers will certainly be merry if their home life is serene and harmonious. Traditions are upheld with great zest in a Cancer's household, since these folks prize family history and love communal activities. They also tend to be patriotic, waving the flag whenever possible. A Cancer's good memory is the basis for stories told around the dinner table, and don't be surprised if these folks get emotional about things. Those born under this Sign wear their heart on their sleeve, which is just fine by them.

The mascot of Cancerians is the Crab, and much like this shelled little critter, Cancerians are quick to retreat into their shells if it suits their mood. No wonder these folks are called crabby! For Cancer, it's not that big of a deal, though, since they consider this 'shell' a second home (and they do love home). The flip side of this hiding is that shell-bound Crabs are often quite moody. Further, in keeping with their difficulty in sharing their innermost feelings, it can become a Herculean task to pry a Crab out of its secret hiding place. What to do? Give the Crab time -- eventually these folks will come out to play again. When they do, they'll be the first to say so, in keeping with the Cardinal Quality attached to this Sign. It's said that Crabs are first to laugh and first to cry, so you can bet they'll fill you in. That shell, by the way, isn't the only tough thing about Crabs. These folks are tenacious and strong-willed and like to get their way. If their well-documented kindness and gentleness doesn't do the trick, however, they're not above using emotional manipulation to make things happen. If that still doesn't work, they'll just go back to their shell and sulk, or find a way to get back at the source of their pain, since Crabs can be rather vindictive. That said, any self-respecting Crab would tell you that they are ultimately motivated by protecting their home and loved ones, a most noble goal.

Cancerians are ruled by the Moon, the Great Mother of the heavens in ancient times. Here on Earth, this is manifested in the Crab's maternal instincts and desire to protect home and hearth. This may appear smothering at times, but that's the Crab for you. The Moon is associated with fertility, too, a quality which is most pleasing to Cancerians. The Moon is also the ruler of moods, and Cancers have plenty of those. These folks can cry you a river if they're so inclined, and they usually are. They can be overly sensitive, easily hurt and prone to brooding. Even so, Crabs find it easy to be sympathetic to others and are quick to show their affection. Their intuition is also a great help to them, especially in times of stress.


The Element associated with Cancer is Water. Like the rolling waves of the sea, the Crab's emotions can make quite a splash. These folks tend to pick up on things and bring them in, with the outward result ranging from sentimentality to possessiveness. Crabs need to resist the temptation to become selfish or to feel sorry for themselves, since this behavior won't help. On the bright side, Cancers are good with money (although some consider them too thrifty), probably because they value a sense of security. Crabs are also quick to help others and tend to avoid confrontation. In keeping with their nurturing bent, those born under this Sign are a whiz with food. A hearty picnic in the park is heaven on earth to most Crabs.

Cancers often find that a robust workout session is just the tonic for their touchy feelings. Team sports are always nice, since they offer a sense of community; water polo should be elemental to aquatic Crabs. What are their team colors? The Moon is silver and white. Since Cancerians have a tendency to be lazy, however, they may need someone to push them out the door. When it comes to the game of love, eager Crabs are devoted, romantic and able to get things going on their own. Crabs are wise to listen to their gut, since this Sign rules the stomach.

The great strength of the Cancer-born is the tenacity with which they protect their loved ones. These folks don't ask for much, either: a comfortable home and sense of peace about sums it up. It's that nurturing instinct which makes Cancerians a pleasure to be with.

http://www.astrology.com/allaboutyou/sunsigns/cancer3.html

Images provided by
http://www.astrology-online.com/cancer.htm
http://astrology-star-signs.blogspot.com/2007/07/cancer-crab.html
http://www.liquidsculpture.com/fine_art/?s=1223507368
http://betsydevine.com/blog/pictures/MoonFlip.gif
http://cardiophile.com/wp-content/uploads/2008/01/heart-in-hands.jpg

Happy Birthday

It has been over a month now since I turned the infamous 29 and still I am at a lost on how to describe my emotions. Here I am, taking in another year while a special few of my loved ones have passed on. I mourned. I cried. But can I laugh? Should I celebrate? How is it possible for me to be sad/happy at the same time?

I planned to take a vacation because I just wanted to get away for a while, but I could not help but think, "What if..."

What if I leave at the wrong time; at the wrong moment?

My beautiful grandmother was getting closer and closer to being at peace and I just did not want to be somewhere else when she passed. I knew the day was drawing near, but she hung on for so long that it just did not seem real to think it was going to happen as soon as it did. Something inside of me said to change my plans. The dates were all mixed up. The timing was off. Expenses would arise, but my instinct kept saying, "Fight it."

And so I fought.


It turns out that the weekend I was originally going to leave was when my Mama left.

It pains me to think that I would have been away. It is as if she somehow told me beforehand, "Hey stick around for a bit." It hurts because every single birthday she was always by my side and had I kept things the way they were, I would not have been by hers. Each year, she shared June with me. She was always there for me with a card in hand and a warm, "Happy Birthday."

No matter what, she never forgot.

I could care less about the cards. I really did not need the greetings. But now...this year, I could not even hug her. And I wish I took advantage of all those years and stored a few of her hugs in a jar for me to pull out when I need them most.

What gets me through this is that I do not think of her as gone. I think of her no longer suffering with tubes and machines. I think of her no longer having to hear people bickering over petty things. I think of her at her strongest and in control and it feels good to know that she is up there somewhere in the clouds.

Just smiling.

I will continue to mourn.

I will continue to smile.

I will continue to celebrate life.

Hers. Mine. Ours.

-Myrnelle

Our Room

It's been difficult to get my words out right to even begin to blog here. But I guess Mama got impatient and decided to give me a reason to try...

I feel that I'm as close to our dearest Mama as anyone can ever be by being in her old room. At first, I wanted to make drastic changes like pulling out the dark burgundy carpet and painting the walls a different shade other than eggwhite. I wanted to take down the Pepto-Bismol colored curtains and white doiley-like shawl that hangs overhead just because these things were never mine to begin with...

But it's been over a year now and still, it all remains the same.

My bed is alongside the window she used to sit next to when she sewed. She always thought the sunlight gave her better lighting for her needle and thread. My desk, books, TV, and storage space replaced her wooden dresser drawers stuffed with plastic bags, labeled with her infamous black, sharpie pen. Pictures of her 7 children leaned against the mirror where now you'll find pictures of "my" children (Stone, Vaughn, Jaelyn, Colin, and more). My coconut/mango candles and oil burner scents permeate through the air that used to smell of her Bengay and Victoria's Secret red apple lotion. My Betty Boop ornaments can be found where her decorative, mini-perfume bottles used to be. My DVD collection hugs the corner where her cabinets (filled with religious figurines) once stood. My movie posters and ceramic pieces hang against the wall where most of her religious artifacts were displayed. A new AC unit has been put in and more framed images went up over time.

And yet even though family and friends comment how different the room looks especially without her in it, in a way even though I've made that space mine, I know I'll always be sharing it with her.

Your "roommate" always, Myrnelle

Flowers In The House

It was the 29th of May at 11pm when I felt Mama was in the house.

I went out from my room to go to the bathroom when I smelled a strong scent of flowers coming from the kitchen. I said to myself, "Mama is beside me because I feel her presence." Then I started to get goosebumps.

I didn't know what to do. I called Froilan, with my towel covering my mouth, pretending not to be scared...but I was, even though I knew I shouldn't be. I never had this experience before even when my own dear mother passed away, but I told Froilan as soon as I entered our room, "Mama is here".

He said, "You didn't say your prayers that's why she came to visit you."

So...I laid down on my bed and said my prayers and will continue to do so until her 40th day.

Now, whenever I come home from work I say, "Hello, I love you."

And before I go to bed I say, "Goodnight, I love you...Mama."

-Maria Carina

Mama is Forever Loved

OH dearest Mama Mama Mama. She is just an amazing amazing amazing person! no words to express. She will always be remembered in my heart and the families. I miss her sooo much. I think about her everyday, i think back to the times where she was so active in cooking, cleaning, going to church, making sure everyone isn't hungry etc etc.


I remember times where i used to go to school at Hamilton, and i would always walk to mamas house down the street. The first thing i would do is greet her with a hug and kiss, and the first thing she would always say to me was "Princess, did you eat?" or "Princess, are you hungry?". WOW, there were many many times i got annoyed of that but who didn't ?! We all knew she cared very much and made sure we all did not go hungry and if we were full. I appreciate everything she has done for me and my family. She took in my mother as if we were a part of her family and i know my mom loves her very very much. I am so blessed me and my family got to know and be a part of mamas family. She loved each and everyone in her family so much and you can just see it with her beautiful smile she kept all the years I've known her, which has been since i was born. Mama keeps the family going each and everyday. I love her for that. She is forever loved and will never ever be forgotten in my heart. I Love You Ma! :)




-Princess Amontos

Our Mama

Thank you everyone for being here today. I am Anthony Dizon and I am honored to have the opportunity to speak for a few minutes about my Mama, our Mama, whose life we are celebrating here today together.

Mama would be very pleased and grateful to see that you all could make it here this morning to share in this with us, as it was her family and friends who were the most important focus of her life. It was also your continued support, well wishes and prayers which were so valuable to her and to the family during her difficult times.

In addition to your presence here, we have received many, many expressions of sympathy, by phone calls, cards, e-mails, text messages, flowers, as well as from family and friends who were able to come to the viewing yesterday and the other day but couldn’t be here with us today.

Before I go on to celebrate Mama and what she stood for I must share with you the reality of what life was like for Mama and the family since she was first diagnosed with Alzheimer's about 3 years ago. Of course, nobody suffered more than Mama, but we all shared my mother’s pain. It was like we were all on trial.

At any one point, as a family, we were in denial, we were angry, or we were depressed. And there was conflict. We disagreed with the doctor’s and nurse’s findings. We didn’t always agree with each other on a course of action. It was a confusing moment.

In the end I felt we all put up a real good fight. We did what we could do, Together! Mama was showered with love and care by everyone.

I could talk for hours and provide numerous examples demonstrating her remarkable independence, including, of course, her strength to carry on being around us after my father passed away in 1990.

Her generosity with her time, her energy, her advice, and in so many other ways provided invaluable support to a remarkable number of people. She not only cared for 5 daughters and 2 sons, she found ways to also care for a lot of her grandchildren and great grandchildren.

My mother had an extraordinary ability to make each of us feel stronger and more confident in our own identity, giving us our own sense of independence and mental toughness which, speaking for myself, has been such an asset in so many ways in my life.

The one incident I would never forget with Mama was when I got my very first paycheck here in the US. (2 weeks of pay with overtime – still a very small amount back then). Anyway, I came to her and said, "Ma, you can have this." Right away, she gave me advice on how I should learn how to save and value what I have worked for. I can’t remember now if Mama ended up keeping that first paycheck, or if I saved it, or if my father spent it – as he was a spender. But from that day on, at that early stage of my adult life, Mama showed me the importance and value of hard work.

Mama is meticulous on how she cares for her personal belongings. Her clothes are folded and stored neatly in her closets. She likes to keep the house especially her room clean all the time – unfortunately for my wife and my 2 sons, I am just as meticulous as my mother.

She liked to hide her important stuff in a way that no one could think of. But when the illness started, our weekend visits became a treasure hunt game for the family trying to find where she hid them because she couldn’t remember where they were. We find it for her so she can hide it again.

These memories along with many others will live in our hearts forever.

I will always be extremely proud to call myself the son of Mama.

Mama, I am going to miss you so much! Truth is I already miss you.

Love your youngest son,

Anthony

Unforgettable Memories

I had so many unforgettable memories with Mama being with her for many, many years. This woman was a hardworking, caring, loving & adorable person. She was very organized in everything. All the things at home (i.e. kitchen, bathroom) should be clean and there were notes all over the place that read:

"Don't touch"
"Keep it clean"
"Turn off lights"
"Close it properly"

and many more...

I will miss these little notes from her. She left many memories behind and I will keep it in my heart forever.

Mama wherever you are, whatever you do I LOVE YOU SO MUCH! I am so lucky to have you as my mother-in-law, mother, adviser, and the best MAMA for us. We will miss you forever.

Maria Carina - she called me both names :)

Alyssa was only 7 days old here (12/3/06). Mama was our first stop once we got out of the hospital. We couldn't wait for her to meet another great-grandchild! Jordan was very proud and was excited to introduce them to each other! I remember as Alyssa & Jordan got older they would make a little more noise when we would go visit mama - she would worry so much about them. She was always so concerned that they would hurt themselves and would tell me, "Oh - yung mga bata - baka masaktan." Or when they were really loud, "Ang ingay ng bata - magulo!" Oh, mama - we miss you so much!
Here's our family with dear mama! I can still hear her voice! She always asked me if she could carry Alyssa. "Pakarga ang baby..."
We miss you mama!
Love,
Krys, Allan, Jordan & Alyssa Strong

A Rainy Day

This is my part of the eulogy for dear mama at her funeral:

Good Morning, my name is Krys and I am the second to the oldest grandchild of mama.

On behalf of all of my grandmother’s grandchildren, I’d like to thank all of you for visiting with us the past few days. It was very comforting to have you here with us.
Even though mama was ill for some time, we expected this day to come soon. However – it didn’t make today an easier.
She was a great woman in her day! So as her body is laid to rest - I don’t want you to remember her like this – nor the way she was when she was ill. Because that was not who she was!
Remember the woman who I recall being so stubborn when she had her mind set on something. On several occasions she’d tell me, “I can do it! I’m strong – you know Christine – if there’s a will there’s a way!” And you know what – she’d do it!
I remember her going on her daily walks around the block. She was also very conscientious about what she would eat. She had a lot of discipline when it came to exercise and being healthy – now that I think about it – I should have paid more attention to that!
This woman was very independent. I was about 10 yrs old or so and I went on my first bus ride ever & it was with mama. She needed to buy something from Fedco but no one was available at the time – but she didn’t let that stop her!
Posture was also very important to mama. When we were much younger, I remember her telling us to always sit up and stand up straight. If she ever caught us hunched over – she’d poke our backs with no mercy! She’d say, “Look at me – I’m much older than you but my back is straight!”
My grandmother is someone I am very proud of. She was truly a great woman. She was the perfect example of strength, determination, discipline, courage – and oh, good posture! She was a godly woman, a devout catholic up to the end. I know that her legacy will continue with her grandchildren and great grandchildren.
So I hope that in some way she had also touched your lives in some way. Be it – cooking something for you when you came to visit, listening to you when you needed a friend, giving you advice in your time of need, celebrating with you, or even as simple as sewing on a button for you.
I’d like to share this poem with you. It’s not something I wrote – just something I came across the other day.

A Rainy Day
Things are not as bad

As they now may seem to be

Your life will still go on

Even though it’s without me

These are not tears of sadness on

this day of rain

Please look at them as tears of joy

For I am now free of pain

You can not know the freedom

Or the peace that I now feel

I hope this is some comfort

As you all now learn to deal

The battle now is over

And in many ways I’ve won

While you might think it is raining

I am warm amidst the sun

Love,

Krys Strong

A Drop of Love Photo courtesy of www.flickr.com

Guardian Angel

Below is the eulogy Maribelle Dizon wrote and read for our dearest Mama:

Good Morning.

I'm here today to share a few thoughts with you about our Mama.

In my household, I joked that my sister Michelle is my dad's favorite, my sister Myrnelle is my mom's favorite and that I will always be Mama's favorite.

And for me...that's the reason for all the heartaches, headaches, and crazy memories I will forever cherish...of times spent with my Mama.

She definitely had a hand in raising me - teaching me to be independent, respectful, and to never forget that FAMILY comes FIRST.

When she became sick, it was the most unfair, horrible thing to do a woman so strong and valuable. The true Heart of the Dizon Family.

But I understand now that her memories will live on in ours...and in my childhood.

Her spirit is with us now and will see us into the future.

When times get tough, when we're stressing, while we're celebrating an occasion, and when we're smiling...I know she'll be watching.

I love you Ma. Not only are you the foundation of this family, now you're our Guardian Angel too.

Thank you. -Bea

A Son's Goodbye

Below is the eulogy Mama's eldest son, Froy Dizon wrote and read for our dearest Mama:

I’d like to begin by acknowledging everyone that are gathered here today to help celebrate the life of our dear mother Agripina, Auntie Piring to other family members, and or simply as “Mama” to those very close to her.

All us of have a story to share on the life of my mother. I’d like to share a few of those memorable moments in no particular order of importance:

• During my second year with the Catholic School, I managed to get kicked out in the middle of the semester due to insubordination. Mama was not thrilled, but she found another school I can temporarily attend as I went through the transition. I couldn’t be happier; I was the smartest kid in the class of “C” students!
  

• As the authoritarian, she will not allow us to hang out late with friends, so the few times I managed to sneak out I got busted! One time she ran her finger on my arm, leaving a white streak and then blurted out, “You went swimming!” I thought I was doomed!

• I think I was in 4th grade and I was seeing this girl in our class. My teacher thought I was getting too involved and in order to get my mother’s attention, she lowered my grades (but wrote it in pencil). Sure enough, the next day Mama came marching straight to the principal’s office and the next thing I knew she was talking to the girl while we were standing in line before the school started! Needless to say I was labeled a “Mama’s Boy” from that day on.
  

• When I got married at a young age, Mama was there to offer her support and understanding.
  

• I remember the first time she taught me how to cook. She had on patches covering her eyes and between the sizzling of the steak, and the fan I couldn’t hear her. So I dragged her closer, but forgot she couldn’t see and she ended up on the floor on her rear end! Shocked, I couldn’t say anything but then I laughed. She cursed me out, but then laughed with me.
  

• We took Mama just about everywhere we went: Las Vegas, San Francisco, Mexico, local casinos, weddings, birthdays and many special events. It’s always been an on-going joke with close friends that if you invite me, you need to include Mama too.
  

I’d like to think that with the help of my siblings (Thelma, Tessie, Ging, Bott, Connie, and Anthony), in-laws, grandchildren, cousins and friends, and most especially my wife Maria and 3 beautiful daughters that we had filled her life with unconditional love and affection.

Most of all without Mama’s love, support and understanding I will not be where I am today.

Again, to all our relatives and friends who are here with us today especially to our extended family in San Francisco and those that could not be with us, thank you for your prayers and support.

Lovingly, Froy

Ken Who? Ken Lew!

I don't know if she ever did know me... I'm sure she recognized me though. It's not everyday you see some random big Chinese guy come into your room and say hi to you. hahaha. I wish I knew her better. I bet she would cook some real good food and I know if I knew her back then, she'd make me stop everything to sit down and eat something she might have cooked. Seeing and experiencing the Dizon family as a whole, I can feel the love that she has inspired. You tend to see how a person is through their children so I know she must have been a great, supportive, understanding, strong and very loving person. The family is a great reminder of her and the bond that you share is a symbol that her life was not wasted but in fact, wonderfully blessed. The love you give to each other and to others is a huge reflection of what mama really was. I don't think she ever said a word to me, but she didn't need to. The family has said more than enough to make me feel welcomed and part of the family as soon as I stepped foot into the house. I remember the first time I met her was when we all went to the tennis club for her birthday party. Gosh, I don't even know how old she was, but I couldn't stop thinking about how much everyone loved her. I went up to her and gave her a kiss on her cheek and said, "happy birthday mama" And she probably thought, "Odick! You've gotten so big and so Chinito!" hahaha. Either that or "Who the heck are you? Go and eat now." haha but really, all she did was looked at me and smiled and that's all I really needed to know.

To the Family, my thoughts and prayers are with you. She left this lifetime knowing that she raised a family that she can be proud of. That will continue to live her teachings of compassion, respect, support, kindness, but most of all, love. I know she left happy and made God proud. I never knew my grandmother, but if I did, I'd hope that she would be someone like mama.

Continue to be strong like mama :)

Love,
Ken Lew

P.S. I wish I could be there. My heart and thoughts are with you all.

What I Remember Most About Mama

I remember coming over to play with Maribelle as a child. And she was always in the kitchen cooking or in the living room with one pink roller in her hair. Always asking us if we’re hungry or need anything. Or whenever we would play, she always tells us to be quiet, because we would laugh and play to loud.

I remember her always asking Maribelle where she was going and what time she'd be home. She always worried about her and wanted to make sure she was safe. I remember sitting in the living room doing homework and looking at the painting of her and her husband. And thought how beautiful she looked. And could see the joy and love in her eyes.

But what I remember the most about mama was her smile and laugh. And whenever she did, you couldn’t stop smiling too.

-Maria Lampasona, close friend of Maribelle Dizon

The Unchanging Self

Dearest Mama,

"Welcome home..." is what I hear them saying to you, honoring your presence, and celebrating all that you have accomplished in your fruitful life. You have come home to reunite with your beloved heart mate, Papa Gonzalo, and to once again be in the presence of your brother and sisters. You are Divine, Mama, and I'm going to miss your elegance, beauty, DIVANESS, and loving kindness. Congratulations on a job well done.

I am with you always
with you at all times.
With every whisper of the wind
I am calling your name.
With the rising and shining of the sun
I am caressing your spirit.
And at each time you smile
I am dancing with you.

You are our beloved Mama.
Be well.

Love,
Rod Penalosa

Smiles, Karaoke and Eggrolls!

While there are many things I will carry with me about Mama from the last twenty years, there are a few that especially stand out to me.

The first is her smile. Whenever she smiled, and she did that a lot, her whole face would light up. The apples of her cheeks would get all rosy, her teeth would show and her soulful eyes would completely disappear! I loved to see that because it just showed how genuinely happy she could get about things. And most of the time, those smiles were accompanied by giggles-whether it be at something Bea did, Nelly said or when Michelle would tease her about something. And once she started giggling, it got all of us going! I actually remember the first time she met my son Vaughn and held him. She sat him on her lap and just kept smiling at him while he looked up at her with his bobble-head and I remember thinking how crazy it was that my kids would now learn her smile and that thought actually warmed me up inside.

Mama also liked to listen to Karaoke. As some of you may know, I love singing and we girls would stay up hours, with mics in our hands, pretending to be superstars! And Mama would just go about her business in the house, popping in once a while with a request. She always asked me to sing Silent Night, whether it was Christmas time or the middle of July, it didn't matter! I guess she liked my rendition, LOL! Or she would really put me on the spot and ask me to sing a song in Tagalog. And of course, I had to oblige because I couldn't very well say no to her, could I? None of us could! So, I would sing the song requested, whether I understood what I was saying or not, and she would pop her head into the living room when I was finished, with one of those Mama smiles and clap, saying "Beautiful Pam, beautiful!" and then pop back out. Silent Night will always be my song for her....

Eggrolls!!!!! This is perhaps my fondest memory of Mama. I was over one day to play with Nelly, we couldn't have been more than ten or eleven years old. Mama and Dad were cooking, of course, and she had just set up the table with everything needed to make eggrolls. I happened to walk past her for one reason or another and the next thing I know, she's telling me to wash my hands and come sit down, an eggroll making lesson was about to begin. Of course, I did as she requested. So, here I am, learning how to roll eggrolls from the best and she's watching every move I make, LOL! "No, that's too loose", "that one is too small", she kept after me until I learned to do it just right. Poor Nelly ended up rolling too because of the "HELP ME!!!" look I gave her as she walked by. Mama was firm in teaching us how to do it but always supportive. We sat there for over an hour making them and though it was stressful at times, we still had so much fun with her, learning, chatting and laughing.

Even with something as trivial as making eggrolls or singing Karaoke, I wanted her to be proud of me. I wanted her to know how much I respected her as the matriarch of my second family. I felt she loved me with her gentle taps on my shoulder, her smiles and her quiet appreciation of little things I did, or the way she looked at my kids. That meant so much to me. I will miss her very much but my heart will never miss the love I have for her, that will forever be ingrained within me.

Pam

To Everyone, to my Family

I wanted to share with everyone a memory of "our mama" that will forever be with me.

Years ago during one of our "many" family get-togethers, with everyone eating, talking and having a good time, I noticed mama sitting down and very quietly looking around at everyone around her. The kids were running around, the Titas (aunts) were at the dining room table sharing stories and laughing, the Titos (uncles) were outside also sharing stories and laughing. I sat down next to her and asked her what was wrong and why was she so quiet?

She looked at me and said, "Michelle, there are so many people here, we have such a big family that we can't even fit in this house!" (But she said it in Tagalog, of course).

And I paused for a moment and looked around and I said to her "Well mama, don't you know that if it wasn't for you, none of us would be here?"

And she looked at me with so much happiness that I could feel it in my heart. And at first I didn't understand why what I said meant so much to her because I truly thought she knew that, but I guess just like all of us, once in awhile we need to hear it.

That was years before "our mama" got sick and I remember that moment like it was yesterday because I feel that now more than ever she needs to hear how much she means to all of us again.

So through this I ask for everyone to tell her, through prayer, "Mama, you are loved! That you are someone's faithful wife, loving sister, tita and cousin. That you are someone's beautifiul daughter, hard working mother, cherished grandmother, and proud great-grandmother. A friend and my hero. Without you, Ma I am nothing. And as I write this email, I have tears of joy because God brought you into my father's life and gave me the strength to go through what I've been through in my life and still be here today and hopefully one day my grandchild can say to me, 'Don't you know that if wasn't for you, none of us would be here too.'

~I love you Ma.

Your Granddaughter,~Michelle

Anak (Child) by Freddie Aguilar

This was Mama's favorite song.

Noong isilang ka sa mundong ito,
Laking tuwa ng magulang mo.
At ang kamay nila
ang iyong ilaw.

At ang nanay at tatay mo,
'Di malaman ang gagawin.
Minamasdan pati pagtulog mo.

Sa gabi napupuyat ang iyong nanay
Sa pagtimpla ng gatas mo.
At sa umaga nama'y kalong
Ka ng iyong amang tuwang-tuwa sa iyo.

Ngayon nga'y malaki ka na,
Nais mo'y maging malaya.
'Di man sila payag,
Walang magagawa.

Ikaw nga'y biglang nagbago,
Naging matigas ang iyong ulo.
At ang payo nila'y,
Sinuway mo.

Hindi mo man lang inisip
Na ang kanilang ginagawa'y para sa iyo.
Pagka't ang nais mo masunod ang layaw mo,
'Di mo sila pinapansin.

Nagdaan pa ang mga araw
At ang landas mo'y naligaw
Ikaw ay nalulon
sa masamang bisyo.

At ang una mong nilapitan
Ang iyong inang lumuluha.
At ang tanong,
"Anak, ba't ka nagkaganyan?"

At ang iyong mga mata'y biglang lumuha
Ng 'di mo napapansin
Pagsisisi ang sa isip mo,
Nalaman mong ika'y nagkamali.

Just passing by...

I just passed by and read about Mama. It's been so long for me since last I talked, seen or spoke to her. Of course my times knowing her were not positive in the begining. She would give me the evil eye and cold stare cause she couldn't figure me out. However, being the open and warmhearted person I am, she warmed up to me and I began to see the loving open side of her. She totally accepted me and as I read these blog entries, I remembered the family get-togethers and your Mama's calculated glances that said a lot without a sound. I remember when she would be cooking and sewing at the kitchen table and how she waltzed back into her room. It is hard to pass by and to see how time brings snap shots of great moments and good times, but to not have a cherished one is the hardest to deal with.

Your Mama's legacy will never be forgotton through Michelle, Maribelle, Myrnelle Tito Froy, Tita Maria, Cat, Krys, and all the Dizon's and extended family. That includes me and anybody who had the pleasure of knowing and loving your Mama. I lost my GMa last year 4/09/07, but it is something that never leaves you because through you they live.

-Yo boi Ken Jackson (old friend)

I couldn't help but read about Mama. I had no idea she passed. I'm sorry. I do remember as if it were yesterday she greeted me at the side door whenever I came to visit. She would always speak to me in Tagalog and even though I only got the gist of what she was saying I didn't have the heart to tell her that I understood Ilocano better. She was always very hospitable to me and I'm sorry she's no longer with your family. I never really grew up close to my grandparents and now they're in the Philippines. It seems as though I didn't miss them until reading these blogs... but now they're half a world away...

Hope all is well with you and your family!

Take care,Bren (Granddaughter Myrnelle Dizon's old friend)

it's never goodbye...

when its time for people 2 leave this life and space, they only go N2 a different space that is completely around us. just cause we can't C them or feel them, doesn't mean that they R not there, they R in a different form, and surround us in a way we could never be consumed by someone. love never dies, it lives 4ever. if u open ur heart and mind, u will see this is true.

-truth angel

(Granddaughter Myrnelle Dizon's close friend)

Orchid for Mama

Hi family,

I think Lola made her presence known to me today. One of the clinical scientists I support came by my desk and dropped of this big bowl of orchid buds as a thank you for what I’ve been doing for him. I thought about it and one of the last times I saw Lola Piring was before Ricky and I left for our honeymoon. We came by their place and dropped mama an orchid plant to cheer up her room. It’s ironic that I got orchids today of all days (also this is the first time any of my clinical scientists have ever given me a gift). =)

I attached the picture of the flowers. It’s so pretty with just one lighter orchid in the middle (I think that one is mama) =)

-Ruth Penalosa Manalo

My Keepsake

I'm sitting here sewing a lose button onto my sister's jacket realizing that i am now the sewer of buttons, clasps, and garment holes for my family. It makes me miss how my grandmother was when she was in perfect health, cuz this was her job and there was no one else better at it.

So here i am, rummaging through the sewing kit given to me that used to be hers, wondering why all the thread keeps getting wrapped around the damn pin cushion (shaped like a tomato) and why i still keep the picture of the Virgin Mary in this box even though i'm not religious...Laughing cuz the only threads in here that are practically used up are the browns and blacks and how the lid reads "keep well organized everytime" in black sharpie.

Every time i read it i wanna say "Well I can't keep it organized Ma cuz everything keeps getting tangled!" I'd like to say I'm making her proud, but I'm sure if she saw my sewing technique she'd smack the back of my head...with her slipper ...in full disapproval. It is bittersweet and I am glad though that this tupperware box full of rolls of thread and random pins was my grandma's sewing kit...and now my keepsake.

2/6/08 <3 Bea

(Granddaughter Maribelle Dizon)