I haven’t been blogging again mostly because of the preparations for my debut last Saturday, January 28, 2012. It was held in EDSA Shangri-la Hotel and my guests were comprised mainly of immediate family and a select few of my parents’ closest friends, my high school friends, a few of my ID blockmates, my Arki batchmates, and of course, AF.

Initially, I didn’t want a debut. I wanted a trip to Europe or Asia or wherever just to see what else the world has to offer- just to catch a glimpse of the beauty that I know is out there. Or maybe even simpler. Just camera gear or maybe a new camera. No, wait. Those aren’t simple, but, you know, for the occasion my mom and I thought it was appropriate.

Unfortunately, my dad begged to differ. He argued that it was such an unreasonable price to pay for cameras/lenses/gear or that he wouldn’t allow me a trip abroad. I’ve never been abroad, by the way. None of us have. Well, my mom once. But my dad grew up being able to travel because my grandfather worked in the airline industry. Anyway, he didn’t want to give me my preference for my 18th birthday.

Instead, he wanted to give me a memorable experience of a debut. I guess it kind of makes sense with my being the only granddaughter on both sides.

It was so stressful and honestly, it cost a fortune. It wasn’t just dad who paid (although he did pay for the majority of the expenses), my mom had her share too. My dad paid for the hotel and everything that came with it. He also paid for the organizer, the host, the suits, the alcohol (the small amount that he did allow eventually) and the dance instructor for our surprise number. My mom on the other hand, paid for the photographer, videographer, our gowns, hair and make-up, flowers, lights, and the photobooth. Although it seems like my mom paid a bunch (which she did), my dad still got the tab for the bulk of the expenses.

That’s what I didn’t want to happen. I didn’t want them to spend so much on just one night. I thought it would be nicer to just get something that I’d be able to use for a long time (like a new camera or lens) or the experience of traveling abroad. But my dad insisted that I only turn eighteen once and this is the only chance I’ll ever have to celebrate in such a grand manner.

I’m really very thankful they gave me the opportunity to see my friends and family gather on one very special occasion. I was truly (as in from the bottom of my heart) touched at the outcome of the attendance. More than 90% of our invitees came and it was so heartwarming. I’m really thankful for my friends who took time off of their busy lives to celebrate the night with me. I’m especially thankful for my family who didn’t let distance be a barrier. Relatives from the province flew in just to celebrate this day with me and I’ve never felt so loved. I even have an uncle who arrived on my birthday whom we haven’t seen in other Christmases or birthdays for the past 3 years. And he decides to give a rare appearance on my birthday! I really was touched.

After my debut, after the program, the speeches, the pictures, the falls (yes, falls), the laughter, the dancing, everything (even the lecture on life by my father), someone made me realize that all of those people came there to celebrate with me. That person made me realize that I’m surrounded by people who love me (one way or another) and they are all such blessings in my life.

I hope someday they’ll also know that they mean so much to me and that I am ever grateful for the blessing of their presence on my 18th birthday. :)