midlifetreasures

Arrival at Wellington Airport, 3 May 2010

Nobody’s perfect, so the saying goes … but in my books, there is room for a “perfect Ate”.  Literally speaking, she is our family’s ultimate “stress-buster”.  Ate Gie will never say “no” to any appeal for help from anyone of us – be it advisory, financial or otherwise.  But don’t be deceived … beyond her gentle looks lies a former terror professor in Accounting at famed De La Salle University in Manila, Philippines.  Her family migrated to Canada in November 2000 and she now holds a senior management role at Japan’s leading shipping firm based in Toronto.   So, who says one can’t have both brains and beauty? Well, I am delighted to say that my Ate Gie is blessed to have them both!

Keeping warm on a chilly night at Oriental Parade

Remember Frodo?

Adventure of a lifetime!

Christchurch was the only destination outside of Wellington which Regine and I avidly hand-picked for Ate Gie’s frenzied 5-day itinerary in NZ.  The trip was an all-girls affair!  From exquisite sushi dining, to garden-hopping, and of course, random shopping!  But the highlight of our trip was the “Lord of the Rings tour”, a 4WD adventure through small streams, exploring the breathtaking Canterbury country road culminating at the summit of Mt. Sunday, the spectacular location shoot of Edoras for the LOTR trilogy!

Stunning views on the way to Mt. Sunday (at the background)

Finally reaching the summit of Mt. Sunday ... lights, camera, action!

Proudly waving the Edoras flag ... good job!

We couldn’t have made a better choice – Christchurch was vibrant, mystique and enchanting!  But sadly not anymore, in the aftermath of the devastating 7.1 magnitude earthquake that hit the central city in September 2010, and continuing aftershocks.  My heart feels for Christchurch and its people, but I would like to remember the “Garden City” with all its charm and splendor.

Here’s a glimpse to our “Nikon-moments” captured by my photographer-daughter, Regine, on a chilly night at the Cathedral Square – a timeless tribute!

At the facade of the fallen Christchurch Cathedral

Like little girls - careless and free!

Sitting pretty!

'Spotted the matching shoes?

Ate Gie’s trip to NZ was simply unforgettable.  She couldn’t have come in a more perfect timing.  Those were the days when I had too much in my plate – parenting concerns, relationship uncertainties, career issues, etc.  I was in a puzzling crossroad, again!  I needed someone who can literally read my mind and naturally finish my sentence without even trying.  We talked and talked – while dining, at the airport, on board a plane, while shopping, in-between “photoshoots”, and as we go to bed until we both fall asleep.