From wine to 90!

Paying tribute to a loved one on her birthday is a tradition, but when that lady turns an energetic 90 years old, it is celebrated with thanksgiving and great joy. Eva Yaptinchay Lichauco was widowed early in her married life, yet she single-handedly raised her five children by venturing into various businesses to be able to provide for her young family by being a businesswoman, travel agent, realtor and even selling her delicious homemade baked goods.

With the passing of time, she is still very active with her daily activities that include gardening, playing the organ, mahjong, mini golf and even tai chi.  I bet she is one rare 90-year-old that can’t be beat in terms of energy and joie de vivre that people half her age would like to emulate.

When asked the secret of her longevity, Eva’s reply was, “I appreciate life, the love and support of family and friends.  Remember that laughter is the best medicine. Enjoy the many blessings God has given and share them with others. And most importantly, I never stop thanking God for His countless blessings and I continue to ask Him for many more birthdays to come.”

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Lucille Carlos-Locsin had a special reason to celebrate with the completion of her house and more importantly, it was the birthday of her good friend and architect Conrad Onglao.  The Makati house took only a year to be finished and with the high ceilings and glass doors everywhere, it seemed like the outdoors were brought indoors. The intimate dinner turned out to be a feast with the dessert table groaning with the sweet delights.

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Philippine Tatler held an elegant cocktail party at Red, Shangri-La Makati to launch its James Suckling Guide to the best Bordeaux Wines in 2010. When I found out that Irene Martel Francisco chose the menu for this cocktail reception, I just had to be present. She has the best taste in food and every Tatler event is a joy to attend in terms of the cuisine served to the decorations that she hand picks. The A-list crowd enjoyed a sumptuous spread by the Shangri-La chefs accompanied by special Bordeaux wines including Chateau Siran 2004 and Le Haut de Smith-Blanc that are available at Wine Story.