A letter from Jul 13, 2024

Happy Jazz, Happy me. Call me exaggerated, but I can't believe you've just turned 18 now. Time flies so fast, ang bilis ng panahon. I still remember my first gift for you: Piattos. It was 2022, we were 8th graders at that time. I was 13 and you were 14. I didn't expect that you would become one of the best things that happened in my life. I may not tell you this often, but you are one of the best gifts God has given me. Nothing can compare with this. With you. Nag-iisa ka sa buhay ko. In 2026, you have finally entered adulthood. You have grown up into a fine young lady. I can't wait to see you achieve all your goals and become the person you ought to be. Always remember that I will always have your back; tilt your head and you will see me on your right; look away and you will see me on your left; look forward and you will see me offering you a hug. Your 18th year of existence, but you will always be my baby—even if you are a year older than me. Vivace, thank you for always being there. My other half and my best friend, I love you so much. I just hope that life will be a little gentler to you. Being 18 means facing many challenges: entering college, meeting new faces, and being surrounded by a different environment. You can do it, Vivace. I know you're brave enough to face all of these. But also remember that it's okay to be afraid sometimes. It's okay to be unsure but still do it anyway. It's okay to be clueless but still learn from it anyway. It's okay to back out but still show up anyway. It's okay. In the end, we are all just trying to survive. You don't deserve the world because you deserve the whole universe. Happy Birthday, Batche. Sincerely, YB