A celebration of life
My mom Adela Jarque turned 90, yes, 90 years old last Sunday.There was every reason for the close family and queridos amigos to join the immediate members of my family in giving thanks for the blessing of her long and healthy life as we celebrated her birthday.
As classical music from the Spanish guitar of virtuoso Ernie Vasquez filled the Manila Room of the Marco Polo Plaza Hotel, my mom dressed in a red beaded Thai silk pantsuit, was all smiles and beaming with joy as she graciously welcomed her almost 90 gift-bearing guests of all ages.
With a copa of sparkling champagne in hand, los invitados immediately exchanged besitos y unos abrazos. Everyone more than knew everybody at the party — there were no strangers.
After the well-planned dinner came the unexpected highlight of the evening, a totally wonderful surprise unknown to all except my siblings Edu, Cisco, Ana Fe, Ramon and Len. Cebuana singer Pilita Corrales, my mom’s favorite, serenaded her cariñosamente and rendered endearing Spanish songs, a medley of old-time hits and an upbeat Visayan song, to the delight of all present, bringing the house down. Asia ’s Queen of Song went on and on, each time touching more hearts.
“Es un maravilla,” quipped a guest. “ Me recordaba de Rocio Jurado, my Valencia-based brother-in-law Maxi said.
It was a most enjoyable evening, made even more meaningful and unforgettable as my mom was lovingly surrounded by guests who traveled from near and far to be with her on this special day.
