December 12 - Tuesday
Oooooh, how I hate getting up in the morning to go to school. Anywhere else I’d gladly get up at 4 am to go but classes – ugh. Never mind, there are just 2 miserable months left and it’ll be all over. (And I’d give anything to roll back time and go back to December 1961 AND school, now!) If I get through Physics, of course. I’m going to miss my classmates though. I didn’t go to school this afternoon I helped mommy in making her fancy matchboxes. I called Inger to wish her a happy birthday (a little late). I also called up Margotin and Marimil. Marimil says we have caroling practice on Saturday at 2 pm for his royal highness - Fritz Infante wants us there at 2 sharp. Also this Dee-Dee something from the Manila Times called Magu and wants us (the Hi-Gayles) to sing at UST on Saturday. No thanks, not at UST. Everyone is going to Mil’s house on Saturday. The Black Kats (some), Squares, Whirlpools, Hi-Gayles, Loony Tuners. I hope with all my heart CG goes.
December 13 - Wednesday
Same dull routine in school. This afternoon Sr. Angela tried some of us girls out for the coming High School play - “Seven Mirrors.” I get a whole scene in which I play the part of Kay - a girl who is lying in a stretcher somewhere in the war torn island of Leyte. It takes place in WWII. It might be very exciting. Sister also placed me in charge of securing the records for sound effects. This evening I went over to Mercy’s house to get the pictures we took on the boat, the day that Cos left - they developed quite good. There’s 2 of Cos which are quite terrific. One of him shaking hands with Mari and another of Cuisia looking at the pictures. I suddenly missed Cos a lot. I miss him a lot. I wish he were back here. Honey spent some time with us this evening. When he’s a good mood and teases me, I love it! But when he’s in a bad mood, well, skip the subject. I think he dislikes me immensely then.
December 14 - Thursday
This am at recess, everyone was talking about dreamy Bob Conrad on TV last night. Also, Teresa Carballo is very nice and so are all of my classmates. I love all of them. I just hate school because of those darned quizzes, tests, homework, lectures, themes, book reports, research etc. Tagalog, Physics (ugh). I like the teachers too but, oh skip it. This afternoon I didn’t go to school. Mom and I went shopping with Tita Marianne who gave me a Christmas card from Arlette and Monica. I worked on Mom’s matchboxes all afternoon. This evening I watched the NCAA championship games - Ateneo vs. Mapua. Ateneo won - yay! Those Mapuans started a fight but the game resumed and Ateneo won by 1 point - 81-80. Dad and I had a fight at dinner. Tita Pacita ate with us. Honestly, sometimes parents can get so unreasonable. I mean, just because I got mistaken about something or other - poof, he blows up in a minute. I saw Peps for a minute on the TV screen. Called Lita and told her. She mentioned Spik Loinaz again and that combo concert at the Rizal Coliseum on December 21st. I’m not counting my chickens till they hatch. Cosme finally wrote to Mercy. Now he thinks Mercy has a crush on Carlos Garcia. Man, is he mixed up! He thinks I like Mari and Louie and Mercy, Carlos, when actually its vice-versa. Somebody will have to straighten the poor guy out or else he may get us all in a mess. Gee, I’m sleepy....
December 15 - Friday
I didn’t go to school today. I can just hear Mrs. Buencamino, Miss Zacharias and Sister Angela and oh, Marina. All trying to speculate whether I made lakuacha or not (Well, duh, child, if you ain’t in school, what else would I be doing...) Anyway, I went to the dressmakers with Mom. Mom also got a letter today from Tito Carlos in Spain. Abuelita is gravely ill and this made Mom’s spirits hit the low z mark. I hope, please God, that nothing happens to Abuelita. This will completely unnerve Mom who already has jittery nerves. Not on Christmas. Last year Dad got sick and this year Abuelita gets sick. Our luck in this Bowie family is not a lady. Well, God knows what He’s doing. Mom and I went to RCA for a moment this evening. I talked with Mercy over the phone, also Magu and Lita. I’m faced with a problem - Lita wants to take me to Mil’s house and Magu said she’ll pick me up with Fritz tomorrow. Oh well, bahala na. Carlos might be there!
December 16 - Saturday
This morning I went to Alemars to buy Christmas cards with Mom. This afternoon Lita picked me up and she, Maricar, Vicky Perez, Vita and I all went to Mil’s house together. We had a lot of fun. We were all in all 23 girls and boys - namely Betina, Vita, Magu, Susan, Margot P., Marina, Lita, Marimil, Vicky, Maricar and I. The boys were Fritz, Mon, Jay, Spik, Peps, Luisito and brother, Joe, Boy, Danny, Rafy, Freddy Hernandez. As soon as I came in Fritz began teasing me about Carlos. We started to practice “Oh Holy Night” with Susan at the guitar but the boys sort of fouled things up. Then Fritz played “Jingle Bells” and that was sort of distorted too. Anyway, Fritz finally began to play the guitar, singing songs and we followed. He also did an imitation of Carlos singing and I’m sure my heart skipped a beat or two namely because I was reminded of Carlos and second because Fritz looked real dippy doing it. Jay and Ramon also took turns playing the new electric guitar. Fritz really sends me. Many times while he was singing, he’d look straight at me. I also got self-conscious because while I was singing I saw Peps and Spik looking at me. Oh well. Later Fritz and the rest of the Hi-Gayles left and Maricar, Lita and I stayed behind with Mom, Betina and Jay. When Freddy Hernandez and Spik came back we asked if Spik could take us home. He said yes. We dropped Betina and Jay off first and then I sat in the front of the car (In Spik’s gorgeous Impala!), while Lita, Mon and Maricar were in back. We dropped Maricar first, then Lita. I was the last. When Lita left I was alone in the front seat with Mon and Spik. Spike is a very nice guy polite, soft spoken and well mannered - (first impression, anyway).
He asked me about Thursday again and I said I could go provided we were with the gang. His last words as I left the car were “Te vere...” I talked with Marina over the phone as I got home. She says she dislikes all Ateneans and La Sallites. Well, she can go back to her good old Italy for all I care! She said she was bored at Mil’s house. Next time, she can stay home. I ate dinner at D’Marks. Uncle Johnny Oppenheimer and Tita Nenuca were there. They gave me a 20.00 Christmas gift. Yipee! Now I can buy myself a sweater. It’s been a very nice day. All the people at Mil’s house are great.
December 17 - Sunday
Went to Mass at 11 AM. Tito Javier Ponce de Leon visited Mom this morning, I went to the ANC after Mass. Lita, Conchita, Luli, Marina...who is bugging me these days - always harping about me missing school, etc. what business is it of hers?! Arno was with us later and when the rest left he stayed with me. I showed him my wallet since he asked to see it. Yipes, he must have seen his picture. Oh well, anyway Beli’s ring popped out of his finger first then and he said it wouldn’t come off. He said that Carlos might sing on Thursday. I kept a straight face when he said this. I ate lunch at the ANC and Luli picked me up. Arno came with us. Beli wasn’t there today. I owe him a movie but I won’t invite him till he breaks with Beli. Spik, Peps, Mon, Fred, Jay, etc. were at the movie. Skip said hello and offered me the ice cream cone he was eating. I laughed and said no thanks. I saw Annie, Elsie and Vicky outside, said hello too. After the movie, Luli dropped Conchita, Lita and I off at the ANC. We sat in the Sunset Lounge and chatted mostly about Spik and Peps. Conchita is crazy over this handsome guy - Santi something. Pichuco joined us later and Conchita went home. We had a lot of laughs. Pichuco invited Lita and I to go to a movie with him but sorry na lang. We dropped Lita home. Spik called me up tonight but I couldn’t talk very long on account of my ever-loving parents and supper. So I asked him to call back tomorrow. He asked me about Thursday evening again and I gave him the same answer. Tomorrow rambulan in class. BIG sermon from all teachers.
Saturday, October 31, 2009
Friday, October 30, 2009
November 29 - December 11, 1961
November 29 - Wednesday
Marina led discussion in Religion today and she did very well. I did not go to class this afternoon. I’ve just begun observing and did not feel so well. I crocheted a while and then I fixed my letters, notes, etc which were a mess. I talked with Mercy. We’ll go to Mass tomorrow together and then join Luli at the ANC. Might see “Exodus” at the Rizal. I hope I see Carlos.
November 30 - Thursday - National Heroes Day
It’s been a very nice day. This morning Mom, Mercy and I went to church at San Marcelino. I went to Confession but couldn’t finish the Mass since I did not feel well. We ate breakfast at home, then Mers and I went to the ANC. (I think I would’ve gone to the ANC in a stretcher, if I had to!) Vita, Carmen Gonzalez and Carmen Garcia, Pamen, Marina, Luli, Consuelo Paredes, Pichuco, Joey, Beli, Arno etc. were there. Lita Abella took a picture of Mercy and me to send to Cosme. We sat in the Sunset Lounge and talked. Arno looked so handsome in a plaid shirt. Found out that Carlos isn’t taking Ginny to the prom but Arno says he might take this other girl named Jeanne. Mercy and I ate lunch at the ANC then Luli picked us up and we went to the Rizal to see “Exodus” with Paul Newman, Eva Marie Saint, Sal Mineo, Jill Hayworth, John Derek, George Maharis, etc. Very good picture except we didn’t see the ending because Luli had to be back home at 5. Everybody was there this afternoon and when I say everyone I mean it. Sitting in the row behind us were Arno, Beli, some Beeps, Tony Ortigas, etc. In the row in front of us were Jay, Ramon and Freddy Infante who stopped to say hello to us, Mari Ojeda, Marimil, Lita, Conchita, Cynthia, Joe, etc. Carlos was all over the place. He smiled and nodded his head in greeting (Something like a Hollywood star greeting his fans. Man did he bedazzle me!). Then later he stopped to say hello to Freddy Infante and sat in front of me and later he talked to Arno who was right behind me and I felt myself slowly melt away...When we left I brushed past him when he and Jigger were standing together in the back of the theater. Later, while we waited for the car I kept hoping he’d come out. Just as the car arrived he came out and as the car drove away I turned to look at him and at that moment he turned too - zing! I started shaking in the knees again. (I was truly pathetic. Wish I could talk to Carlos now and see if he remembers ANY of this at all.)
(UPDATE!- Some months after I started transcribing these diaries, I decided to see if I could track down my old crush and through the help of Honey and Jimmy Alba, I did. After 45 years, I finally got to speak with Carlos over the phone. I first asked him if he remembered the early 60s in Manila, but, for a couple of minutes, he barely remembered who I was! He still can break my heart (just kidding folks). But, we had a good laugh, and it was a bit of a thrill to fulfill a fantasy that I had more than a lifetime ago. And that girl, who was so nuts about that boy Carlos, still lurks somewhere in a little corner of my heart, as I think does that boy with the wicked smile.)
December 1 - Friday
I was absent from school this morning since I forgot to do my “Red China in the UN” report. I went to school this pm and got a big sermon from Sister Mary Angela about being absent (Duh...I’m amazed they even let me back IN school at this point ). Anyway, I found out that its all over between Carlos and Ginny and that he does not have a chance with this Jeanne person because she likes Freddy Franco - so Magu tells me. Yipee, that means he has no one to take to the prom. Now, if he only knew I was alive. Yeah, fat chance. Tomorrow is the Barrio Fiesta at SLV and Maryanne Abella’s party. We’ll just wait and see...
December 2 - Saturday
This has been one of the nicest days I’ve had in 5 months. I’ve enjoyed myself thoroughly. First, I went to the ANC this morning and Conchita, Lita and I sun-bathed. Pichuco joined us for a while. I ate lunch there with Mom and Lita. Then this afternoon Mom and I went to Charter’s Studio and Aunt Kitty was there of course. Karen who looked so pretty, Linda and Kathy were there. They wanted to go to the Barrio Fiesta but Uncle Vee did not let them. Conchita picked me up at 3:30 pm to go to the BF with Lita and Luli. We picked up Marina and walked to the park. Marimil joined us and we started walking around the place. We rode the “Octupus” once. Freddy and Mon Infante, and Linggoy started talking to Marimil and me. Then Carlos joined us for a few minutes while Freddy was telling him something, my heart stopped beating for a few minutes too. He looked straight at me and as those dreamy brown eyes met mine I felt myself melting at the edges. Freddy has such a delightful sense of humor. He’ll fracture me someday. Marimil likes him so much she can’t see straight. (Then I guess I was walking around with a white stick with respect to Carlos!) I kept seeing Carlos walking back and forth. Lita and Conchita then left and I stayed with Marimil. Later Mercy arrived and we all sat at the “Dedication Booth.” While we were sitting there, Carlos walked right by us and as he walked by he looked straight at me and said “bye.” The fact that he looked at ME, not at Margie, Mercy or Marimil and said bye makes me feel so good and warm. Later, as we waited for the jam session to begin, we talked to Arno. I borrowed a buck from him so I could enter the jam session. You should have heard Carlos sing! He sounded like Ricky Nelson to a tee. And he looks better than Ricky Nelson just simply adorable on that stage. I’ll bet many female hearts fluttered while he sang. Nothing looked better on the stage. He wore a coat and tie but he came in with Jeanne. He looked more handsome today than I’ve ever seen him. Sigh, what a guy. I danced on “Jam Session” but no TV camera caught me. I danced 3 times with a guy whose name I forgot and once with this guy I met at the ANC. I also danced with Linggoy, Peps, Mon Infante and Margie interrupted my dance with Ramon Faustman because we had to leave. We got to Maryanne’s party and it was still pretty dead. Mercy was all excited because Tony was supposed to be there. Later people started arriving - Pamen, Marina, Inger, Butch, and the Diggers. I spent the whole night talking to Tony, Quito, Butch and Joe Assad. I could see Mercy’s face shining when Tony took her to dance boogie and one slow. Joe was real nice this evening. At first we teased each other a lot but all in fun. I danced 2 boogies and 3 slows with him. He’s a great dancer and when I was dancing slow with him I felt all warm inside. He wanted to walk me home since we lived near each other but I had to get home. I got home at 1:05 am. Mom was boiling. Big sermon again. First time in months I’ve enjoyed myself - wherein I was paid attention to by very nice guys and danced and I get bawled out for staying out an hour later. Sometimes parents tie you to their apron strings too tightly. Victor Sans said Javi Ruiz might invite me to the prom. Pichuco Berenguer was at the party too. What a great day.
December 3 - Sunday
I went to mass at 10 am at Ermita and then to the ANC. Everyone was there - Lita, Luli, Conchita, Marina, Inger, Pichuco, Arno and Mary Salman. Arno looked very nice today. I had to leave the ANC because Dad, Mom and I had to go to Bulacan for lunch. Karen, Linda etc. were there. We came home at 2:30 pm. I went back to the ANC to get my ???? for Lit. Lita, Conchita, Luli came and we ate. Charito Malarki was with us. I returned home at 6:30 pm. Freddy Infante and company were at SLV today. Freddy gave Magu a stuffed animal.
December 4 - Monday
I got bawled out by Mrs. Buencamino this morning. My Physics is getting worse and I’m passing by the skin of my teeth. We had revues today for exams. Marina and Magu’s topic of conversation today was Freddy Infante. This evening I went to Marimil’s house for dinner. Freddy (her brother) was there. We kept looking at each other and smiling. Marimil talked with Joe over the phone. He’s really crazy over Marimil and Marimil isn’t sure whether she likes Freddy Infante or Joe. Tomorrow exams and I don’t know a thing. I can’t get Carlos off my mind no matter what I do.
December 5 - Tuesday - Margie Gonzalez’s birthday
Exams are the bane of my life. I hate, hate, hate, despise them!! Religion, Speech, Spanish and English weren’t so bad. Tomorrow - my Waterloo - Physics. I’m going to need a lot help from the saints to get me through this one. After writing in here I plunge in! I went to the ANC for a while this afternoon after school.
December 6 - Wednesday
Well, I’m through with Physics for now. I studied the best I could and my exams were so-so. I’ll just wait until Monday to learn the results (gulp). Suzzette helped me a lot in reviewing, also Tina. I ate lunch in school with Teresa Carballo, Cristina Soliongco, Tina, Marilena, etc. We had no review classes this pm. I talked to Mercy and also to Nena. Also spoke to Margie to wish her a happy birthday. Chiqui Ramirez gave her a watch. Also Margie told me her cousin Carlitos told her Javi Ruiz was going to ask me to the prom. Mercy is hysterical because Maricar Beliso found out she likes Tony. Try and keep anything a secret around here is impossible. The prom gets closer every day. This pesky cough won’t leave me and Mom’s worried.
December 7 - Thursday - Mom and Dad’s Anniversary (20 years)
Phew, what a relief, exams are finally over until January. Passed through History and Tagalog like a breeze. With the able help of Alicia Gabriel. I talked with Marimil over the phone for almost an hour or so this evening. I was right - Freddy seems to like Margotin and vice versa. I don’t blame Magu. It’s pretty hard to resist Fritz. She went to the Paul Anka show with him tonight. Marimil is all excited about going to Pampanga this Sunday. Some of the people who are going are the Infantes, Hernandezes, Magu, Lita, Vita, Peps, etc. its going to be a lot of fun. Gee, how I wish I could go.
December 8 - Friday - Ateneo Carnival
I went to Mass at 10 am at Ermita with Mercy and Mom. Then we went to Alemars for a while and later we picked up Karen and went to the ANC. Conchita, Lita, Marina, Pamen, etc were there. We just talked. At 2 pm Mom brought Karen back to the studio and Mercy stayed with Chiqui and Albert at the ANC. Ramon, Fritz, Boy Legarda picked Lita, Maricar and I to go to the Ateneo Carnival. We picked up Magu, Susan and Freddy Franco up at Magu’s house. Then we drove to Ateneo. It’s wonderful at Loyola Heights. So cold but diamond fresh. We just walked around the grounds. Saw Dito Guerrero, Carmyr, etc Annabelle Morelos and some classmates. The Squares came and they joined us. Mon Infante is awfully nice and has terrific eyes. Fritz never left Magu’s side. Lita and I stuck together since Magu and Fritz and Susan and Fred were together as were Mon and Maricar. Even Lita deserted me for a while and went on the Ferris Wheel with Peps. The Ateneans are wonderful. We met these two Jesuit priests - Fr. Welch and Fr. Larkin who were really interesting. I asked about Fr. Reuter. I gave Freddy Franco a picture of Arlette and Monica. Jay Herrero is very nice too in spite of what I’ve heard about him (????) They (who were the “they”) bought me my ticket to the Carnival and Fritz was awfully generous too. Peps invited me to Nicky Jacinto’s party tomorrow and to go to Pampanga. I’d give my right eye to go there but doubt if my parents will allow me to go. My mother—hah! That’ll be the day. Fritz found out I like Carlos while we were going home though a “blunder” of Magu’s. He started teasing but said that Carlos was a great guy. Of course he is! Nobody has to convince me!! Mon and Jay played for a while and they dedicated songs to the Hi-Gayles 3 or 4 times - naks!
December 9 - Saturday
La Salle Junior-Senior Prom
Nicky Jacinto’s Party
Chancelors Party
Compared to yesterday, today has been a pretty miserable day. First of all, I was supposed to go to the ANC with Lita but Mom made me go shopping with her. I bought a book - “Greatest Story Ever Told”, a medal, a pair of white torero pants and a simply dippy striped pullover, a St. Christopher medal for the car and a white belt. Mom has a terrific cold and she did not feel well the whole day making her cranky and mostly mad at me. (How insensitive I was! Right now, I’d give anything to be able to go back and go shopping with my mother....) Then I couldn’t go to either party and no prom for me of course. Also, no Pampanga tomorrow. Heaven knows what else?! Margie stopped over here on the way to pick up Mercy for the prom. She looked real pretty. Chiqui was with her. I talked with Mil (Marimil) and Lita over the phone. Both of them were pretty hysterical about many things . Mil finds out Joe’s the greatest - all had something to do with last night. She went with him to the Valley Golf Club......???!!!
December 10 - Sunday - Cosme’s Birthday and Inger’s
Just this minute I remembered that I forgot to call Inger to wish her a happy birthday. Mercy says that the prom was a success last night. Louie Mac asked Mercy if “he had a chance” with her and Mercy gave him a big large negative. Arno was at the ANC this morning. I paid him back the one peso I owed him and he was happy since he had no money for the movie. He stayed home last night too and said he’s sorry he didn’t think about it but that he would have called me up last night since he had no place to go either. I wish he had called up. I also wish Beli would take a little trip someplace. Not that I don’t like Beli or anything. Luli, Conchita and I went to the Rizal to see “Comancheros” with John Wayne. Betina, Tony, Menchu, Mary and Jack A sat behind us. Tony kept giving me that sly sarcastic half-grin of his every time I looked back to talk to Betina. I saw Joe who gave me a smile which I could not interpret. Later he threw me something from behind. Later Arno walked in with Juaco and Arno waved hello again and sat way on the right side. I could see Magu over there. I wonder if Carlos was there too. I saw Tita Marina outside and said hello. After the movie, Vicky Pertierra, Luli, Conch and I went to the Polo Club and then to the ANC. Conch and I finally straightened out that mess that Javi inviting me to the prom. He was going to ask me but Conchita told him she didn’t think I wanted to go. She told him the truth tonight. Vicky Pertierra is a riot and still the ever loving tomboy. All the girls talk can talk about acute guy in a picture and Vicky sighs over a beautiful black horse. Tomorrow’s going to be a Blue Monday. No term paper....gulp.
December 11 - Monday
Sometimes, Sister Angela makes me so mad. Big sermon about not going to the Concert (Glee Club). One can’t even lead one’s own life any more. I mean, gee, the tickets cost dough and I can’t be asking my daddy for money every day. Wait till I tell her tomorrow that I have to return the 5.00 patron ticket. She’ll boil! Anyway, St. Jude bless him finally heard my prayers. Daddy’s work is getting successful and I passed my Physics exam with an 82%!!!!! I was almost hysterical this morning. I’m so happy but we had a surprise quiz and I got absolutely zero. I talked to Mercy over the phone for an hour mostly about Cosme, Margie, Louie...I also called Lita but she couldn’t talk. Marimil called me up and asked me if I would mind going to the Jazz Concert on the 21st with Spik Loinaz. I told her I’d love too. She said I’m not supposed to know anything but per Freddy, her brother, told her he would ask me. (Imagine if Carlos sings!)
Marina led discussion in Religion today and she did very well. I did not go to class this afternoon. I’ve just begun observing and did not feel so well. I crocheted a while and then I fixed my letters, notes, etc which were a mess. I talked with Mercy. We’ll go to Mass tomorrow together and then join Luli at the ANC. Might see “Exodus” at the Rizal. I hope I see Carlos.
November 30 - Thursday - National Heroes Day
It’s been a very nice day. This morning Mom, Mercy and I went to church at San Marcelino. I went to Confession but couldn’t finish the Mass since I did not feel well. We ate breakfast at home, then Mers and I went to the ANC. (I think I would’ve gone to the ANC in a stretcher, if I had to!) Vita, Carmen Gonzalez and Carmen Garcia, Pamen, Marina, Luli, Consuelo Paredes, Pichuco, Joey, Beli, Arno etc. were there. Lita Abella took a picture of Mercy and me to send to Cosme. We sat in the Sunset Lounge and talked. Arno looked so handsome in a plaid shirt. Found out that Carlos isn’t taking Ginny to the prom but Arno says he might take this other girl named Jeanne. Mercy and I ate lunch at the ANC then Luli picked us up and we went to the Rizal to see “Exodus” with Paul Newman, Eva Marie Saint, Sal Mineo, Jill Hayworth, John Derek, George Maharis, etc. Very good picture except we didn’t see the ending because Luli had to be back home at 5. Everybody was there this afternoon and when I say everyone I mean it. Sitting in the row behind us were Arno, Beli, some Beeps, Tony Ortigas, etc. In the row in front of us were Jay, Ramon and Freddy Infante who stopped to say hello to us, Mari Ojeda, Marimil, Lita, Conchita, Cynthia, Joe, etc. Carlos was all over the place. He smiled and nodded his head in greeting (Something like a Hollywood star greeting his fans. Man did he bedazzle me!). Then later he stopped to say hello to Freddy Infante and sat in front of me and later he talked to Arno who was right behind me and I felt myself slowly melt away...When we left I brushed past him when he and Jigger were standing together in the back of the theater. Later, while we waited for the car I kept hoping he’d come out. Just as the car arrived he came out and as the car drove away I turned to look at him and at that moment he turned too - zing! I started shaking in the knees again. (I was truly pathetic. Wish I could talk to Carlos now and see if he remembers ANY of this at all.)
(UPDATE!- Some months after I started transcribing these diaries, I decided to see if I could track down my old crush and through the help of Honey and Jimmy Alba, I did. After 45 years, I finally got to speak with Carlos over the phone. I first asked him if he remembered the early 60s in Manila, but, for a couple of minutes, he barely remembered who I was! He still can break my heart (just kidding folks). But, we had a good laugh, and it was a bit of a thrill to fulfill a fantasy that I had more than a lifetime ago. And that girl, who was so nuts about that boy Carlos, still lurks somewhere in a little corner of my heart, as I think does that boy with the wicked smile.)
December 1 - Friday
I was absent from school this morning since I forgot to do my “Red China in the UN” report. I went to school this pm and got a big sermon from Sister Mary Angela about being absent (Duh...I’m amazed they even let me back IN school at this point ). Anyway, I found out that its all over between Carlos and Ginny and that he does not have a chance with this Jeanne person because she likes Freddy Franco - so Magu tells me. Yipee, that means he has no one to take to the prom. Now, if he only knew I was alive. Yeah, fat chance. Tomorrow is the Barrio Fiesta at SLV and Maryanne Abella’s party. We’ll just wait and see...
December 2 - Saturday
This has been one of the nicest days I’ve had in 5 months. I’ve enjoyed myself thoroughly. First, I went to the ANC this morning and Conchita, Lita and I sun-bathed. Pichuco joined us for a while. I ate lunch there with Mom and Lita. Then this afternoon Mom and I went to Charter’s Studio and Aunt Kitty was there of course. Karen who looked so pretty, Linda and Kathy were there. They wanted to go to the Barrio Fiesta but Uncle Vee did not let them. Conchita picked me up at 3:30 pm to go to the BF with Lita and Luli. We picked up Marina and walked to the park. Marimil joined us and we started walking around the place. We rode the “Octupus” once. Freddy and Mon Infante, and Linggoy started talking to Marimil and me. Then Carlos joined us for a few minutes while Freddy was telling him something, my heart stopped beating for a few minutes too. He looked straight at me and as those dreamy brown eyes met mine I felt myself melting at the edges. Freddy has such a delightful sense of humor. He’ll fracture me someday. Marimil likes him so much she can’t see straight. (Then I guess I was walking around with a white stick with respect to Carlos!) I kept seeing Carlos walking back and forth. Lita and Conchita then left and I stayed with Marimil. Later Mercy arrived and we all sat at the “Dedication Booth.” While we were sitting there, Carlos walked right by us and as he walked by he looked straight at me and said “bye.” The fact that he looked at ME, not at Margie, Mercy or Marimil and said bye makes me feel so good and warm. Later, as we waited for the jam session to begin, we talked to Arno. I borrowed a buck from him so I could enter the jam session. You should have heard Carlos sing! He sounded like Ricky Nelson to a tee. And he looks better than Ricky Nelson just simply adorable on that stage. I’ll bet many female hearts fluttered while he sang. Nothing looked better on the stage. He wore a coat and tie but he came in with Jeanne. He looked more handsome today than I’ve ever seen him. Sigh, what a guy. I danced on “Jam Session” but no TV camera caught me. I danced 3 times with a guy whose name I forgot and once with this guy I met at the ANC. I also danced with Linggoy, Peps, Mon Infante and Margie interrupted my dance with Ramon Faustman because we had to leave. We got to Maryanne’s party and it was still pretty dead. Mercy was all excited because Tony was supposed to be there. Later people started arriving - Pamen, Marina, Inger, Butch, and the Diggers. I spent the whole night talking to Tony, Quito, Butch and Joe Assad. I could see Mercy’s face shining when Tony took her to dance boogie and one slow. Joe was real nice this evening. At first we teased each other a lot but all in fun. I danced 2 boogies and 3 slows with him. He’s a great dancer and when I was dancing slow with him I felt all warm inside. He wanted to walk me home since we lived near each other but I had to get home. I got home at 1:05 am. Mom was boiling. Big sermon again. First time in months I’ve enjoyed myself - wherein I was paid attention to by very nice guys and danced and I get bawled out for staying out an hour later. Sometimes parents tie you to their apron strings too tightly. Victor Sans said Javi Ruiz might invite me to the prom. Pichuco Berenguer was at the party too. What a great day.
December 3 - Sunday
I went to mass at 10 am at Ermita and then to the ANC. Everyone was there - Lita, Luli, Conchita, Marina, Inger, Pichuco, Arno and Mary Salman. Arno looked very nice today. I had to leave the ANC because Dad, Mom and I had to go to Bulacan for lunch. Karen, Linda etc. were there. We came home at 2:30 pm. I went back to the ANC to get my ???? for Lit. Lita, Conchita, Luli came and we ate. Charito Malarki was with us. I returned home at 6:30 pm. Freddy Infante and company were at SLV today. Freddy gave Magu a stuffed animal.
December 4 - Monday
I got bawled out by Mrs. Buencamino this morning. My Physics is getting worse and I’m passing by the skin of my teeth. We had revues today for exams. Marina and Magu’s topic of conversation today was Freddy Infante. This evening I went to Marimil’s house for dinner. Freddy (her brother) was there. We kept looking at each other and smiling. Marimil talked with Joe over the phone. He’s really crazy over Marimil and Marimil isn’t sure whether she likes Freddy Infante or Joe. Tomorrow exams and I don’t know a thing. I can’t get Carlos off my mind no matter what I do.
December 5 - Tuesday - Margie Gonzalez’s birthday
Exams are the bane of my life. I hate, hate, hate, despise them!! Religion, Speech, Spanish and English weren’t so bad. Tomorrow - my Waterloo - Physics. I’m going to need a lot help from the saints to get me through this one. After writing in here I plunge in! I went to the ANC for a while this afternoon after school.
December 6 - Wednesday
Well, I’m through with Physics for now. I studied the best I could and my exams were so-so. I’ll just wait until Monday to learn the results (gulp). Suzzette helped me a lot in reviewing, also Tina. I ate lunch in school with Teresa Carballo, Cristina Soliongco, Tina, Marilena, etc. We had no review classes this pm. I talked to Mercy and also to Nena. Also spoke to Margie to wish her a happy birthday. Chiqui Ramirez gave her a watch. Also Margie told me her cousin Carlitos told her Javi Ruiz was going to ask me to the prom. Mercy is hysterical because Maricar Beliso found out she likes Tony. Try and keep anything a secret around here is impossible. The prom gets closer every day. This pesky cough won’t leave me and Mom’s worried.
December 7 - Thursday - Mom and Dad’s Anniversary (20 years)
Phew, what a relief, exams are finally over until January. Passed through History and Tagalog like a breeze. With the able help of Alicia Gabriel. I talked with Marimil over the phone for almost an hour or so this evening. I was right - Freddy seems to like Margotin and vice versa. I don’t blame Magu. It’s pretty hard to resist Fritz. She went to the Paul Anka show with him tonight. Marimil is all excited about going to Pampanga this Sunday. Some of the people who are going are the Infantes, Hernandezes, Magu, Lita, Vita, Peps, etc. its going to be a lot of fun. Gee, how I wish I could go.
December 8 - Friday - Ateneo Carnival
I went to Mass at 10 am at Ermita with Mercy and Mom. Then we went to Alemars for a while and later we picked up Karen and went to the ANC. Conchita, Lita, Marina, Pamen, etc were there. We just talked. At 2 pm Mom brought Karen back to the studio and Mercy stayed with Chiqui and Albert at the ANC. Ramon, Fritz, Boy Legarda picked Lita, Maricar and I to go to the Ateneo Carnival. We picked up Magu, Susan and Freddy Franco up at Magu’s house. Then we drove to Ateneo. It’s wonderful at Loyola Heights. So cold but diamond fresh. We just walked around the grounds. Saw Dito Guerrero, Carmyr, etc Annabelle Morelos and some classmates. The Squares came and they joined us. Mon Infante is awfully nice and has terrific eyes. Fritz never left Magu’s side. Lita and I stuck together since Magu and Fritz and Susan and Fred were together as were Mon and Maricar. Even Lita deserted me for a while and went on the Ferris Wheel with Peps. The Ateneans are wonderful. We met these two Jesuit priests - Fr. Welch and Fr. Larkin who were really interesting. I asked about Fr. Reuter. I gave Freddy Franco a picture of Arlette and Monica. Jay Herrero is very nice too in spite of what I’ve heard about him (????) They (who were the “they”) bought me my ticket to the Carnival and Fritz was awfully generous too. Peps invited me to Nicky Jacinto’s party tomorrow and to go to Pampanga. I’d give my right eye to go there but doubt if my parents will allow me to go. My mother—hah! That’ll be the day. Fritz found out I like Carlos while we were going home though a “blunder” of Magu’s. He started teasing but said that Carlos was a great guy. Of course he is! Nobody has to convince me!! Mon and Jay played for a while and they dedicated songs to the Hi-Gayles 3 or 4 times - naks!
December 9 - Saturday
La Salle Junior-Senior Prom
Nicky Jacinto’s Party
Chancelors Party
Compared to yesterday, today has been a pretty miserable day. First of all, I was supposed to go to the ANC with Lita but Mom made me go shopping with her. I bought a book - “Greatest Story Ever Told”, a medal, a pair of white torero pants and a simply dippy striped pullover, a St. Christopher medal for the car and a white belt. Mom has a terrific cold and she did not feel well the whole day making her cranky and mostly mad at me. (How insensitive I was! Right now, I’d give anything to be able to go back and go shopping with my mother....) Then I couldn’t go to either party and no prom for me of course. Also, no Pampanga tomorrow. Heaven knows what else?! Margie stopped over here on the way to pick up Mercy for the prom. She looked real pretty. Chiqui was with her. I talked with Mil (Marimil) and Lita over the phone. Both of them were pretty hysterical about many things . Mil finds out Joe’s the greatest - all had something to do with last night. She went with him to the Valley Golf Club......???!!!
December 10 - Sunday - Cosme’s Birthday and Inger’s
Just this minute I remembered that I forgot to call Inger to wish her a happy birthday. Mercy says that the prom was a success last night. Louie Mac asked Mercy if “he had a chance” with her and Mercy gave him a big large negative. Arno was at the ANC this morning. I paid him back the one peso I owed him and he was happy since he had no money for the movie. He stayed home last night too and said he’s sorry he didn’t think about it but that he would have called me up last night since he had no place to go either. I wish he had called up. I also wish Beli would take a little trip someplace. Not that I don’t like Beli or anything. Luli, Conchita and I went to the Rizal to see “Comancheros” with John Wayne. Betina, Tony, Menchu, Mary and Jack A sat behind us. Tony kept giving me that sly sarcastic half-grin of his every time I looked back to talk to Betina. I saw Joe who gave me a smile which I could not interpret. Later he threw me something from behind. Later Arno walked in with Juaco and Arno waved hello again and sat way on the right side. I could see Magu over there. I wonder if Carlos was there too. I saw Tita Marina outside and said hello. After the movie, Vicky Pertierra, Luli, Conch and I went to the Polo Club and then to the ANC. Conch and I finally straightened out that mess that Javi inviting me to the prom. He was going to ask me but Conchita told him she didn’t think I wanted to go. She told him the truth tonight. Vicky Pertierra is a riot and still the ever loving tomboy. All the girls talk can talk about acute guy in a picture and Vicky sighs over a beautiful black horse. Tomorrow’s going to be a Blue Monday. No term paper....gulp.
December 11 - Monday
Sometimes, Sister Angela makes me so mad. Big sermon about not going to the Concert (Glee Club). One can’t even lead one’s own life any more. I mean, gee, the tickets cost dough and I can’t be asking my daddy for money every day. Wait till I tell her tomorrow that I have to return the 5.00 patron ticket. She’ll boil! Anyway, St. Jude bless him finally heard my prayers. Daddy’s work is getting successful and I passed my Physics exam with an 82%!!!!! I was almost hysterical this morning. I’m so happy but we had a surprise quiz and I got absolutely zero. I talked to Mercy over the phone for an hour mostly about Cosme, Margie, Louie...I also called Lita but she couldn’t talk. Marimil called me up and asked me if I would mind going to the Jazz Concert on the 21st with Spik Loinaz. I told her I’d love too. She said I’m not supposed to know anything but per Freddy, her brother, told her he would ask me. (Imagine if Carlos sings!)
Thursday, October 29, 2009
November 19 - 28, 1961
November 19 - Sunday
I went to Mass at 11:45 am at Ermita and then to the ANC. Conchita, Marina, Luli and Arno were there. Arno was busy talking to Beli over the phone. I ate lunch in Conchita’s house then we picked up Lita and went to see “Bachelor’s Flat” with Tuesday Weld and Dick Beymer, at the Rizal. As we sat down I noticed Carlos was sitting in front of me and I nearly died. He looked back twice and then he went out for a moment. When he came back as he slid into his seat he said a soft “Hi.” There went my pulse again. Later, Ginny, Beli came and he sat beside Ginny. Then we saw Linggoy and he left. We chatted with Cynthia for a while then we started to walk to Marina’s house. It was then I noticed Carlos and Arno walking behind us. My knees were slowly turning to jelly. Also while we walked a big black car stops near us and it was the Whirlpools! They offered us a ride but we declined. Freddy was there! I got more excited than ever with Freddy in front of me and Carlos and Arno behind us. We found a taxi finally on Pasay Road and we went to the ANC. Later in the afternoon, Pichuco Berenguer and Ditoy Atayde joined us girls. We just chatted and listened to the radio. Pichuco is very nice. Dad brought me home. Talked to Mercy over the phone.
November 20 - Monday
We had our sale in school this morning. I contributed a jar of guava jelly, and a jar of pickles. We sold sandwiches and halo-halo. This pm my stomach was acting up again and I skipped Tagalog classes to go to the clinic. I talked to Mercy over the phone - she is real worried since she got 4 failures in her report card. Marina also called me up. Arno is also failing but in 7 subjects. Tsk, tsk, if they keep this up where will they end up? Well, I’d better not talk since my Physics is way out too. Mercy tells me that Tessie Mapua doesn’t think Carlos is handsome or anything . Well, if she’d look at herself in the mirror once in a while she wouldn’t talk so much.
November 21 - Tuesday
The usual boring day in school. I despise homework and the only thing that keeps me from being absent the whole week is the fact that I can’t afford to miss another lecture in Physics. To think I have 79 more regular days of school makes me sick. I mean I love my classmates and teachers and I like to learn but that darned homework, tests, exams, quizzes, memorizing, solving....etc. UGH This afternoon the Hi-Gayles came home and we had to decide which songs we are going to sing on Sunday. I do hope the Strads play. The Looney Tunes might sing so the competition is really up. I hope Salvador is there. He is a very nice guy and the Whirlpools might come – Freddy Infante! Mary Ann said that Mari (her brother) might come with you-know-who. Carlos won’t be able to sing but just his presence will do it for me. Funny how every time I mention Carlos, I seem to see Ginny’s face. Pocholo B. Asked Magu to La Salle’s J-S Prom. Lucky her! There’s one dream I know won’t come true. Can you imagine me going with Carlos?! Wake up girl. But I think I’d be the happiest girl in the word if I could walk into the prom with Carlos. I’d give anything...oh well, dream....I got to thinking about Arno and I think I know why he’s changed from the charming sweet person he was to an aloof, sarcastic person.
November 22 - Wednesday
It was very cold this morning with this typhoon and all. It was very colorful to see everyone with different colored sweaters in school. Miss Jusi and Mrs. Patag were absent this pm. The Hi-Gayles practiced at home this evening. Mercy called up and read me Cosme’s letter to her. Now I realize that Cosme just thinks of me as a friend. Not even a special one like Margie (Oh, spare me!) or Mercy (who he loves still). I’m just a closed chapter in his life. He’s much closer to Margie and Mercy as I see by his letters. Face it Lea, you never meant anything to him. Louie Mac has invited Mercy to the prom.
November 23 - Thursday
We went to a friend of my father’s for Thanksgiving this noon. This afternoon Mom and I went to see “Elephant Walk” with Liz Taylor and Peter Finch at the Rizal. Then we went to the ANC for a while. I looked in the Teen Den and Ramon Faustman and Arno were playing the piano. I was so happy to see Arno (???) My heart beat a teeny bit faster. I talked with him for a while and tonight he was his old self. I like him and Freddy Infante best. I talked with Mercy for hours tonight. We talked about Carlos, Cosme, Louie, Tony O., etc., etc., etc. mercy likes Tony a lot and I was right about one thing - if Cosme came back now, she’d go steady with him without a second thought. Mercy admitted it. We talked until 10:45 pm. Everyone it seems is going to the La Salle prom.
November 24 - Friday
Mrs. Patag said I wasn’t doing as good in class as I have before and that I’ve changed in the past 2 months etc. Well, the plain truth is that I’m fed up with school. I mean I get so restless in a classroom all day. There are times when I feel like screaming in the middle of a class. I hate it! But, I’ll try to do better these coming months. This morning we went to the Science Exhibit with Mrs. Buencamino and the class. The Hi-Gayles stuck together all the time. There was the handsomest American guy there. Tall, with blue eyes and sandy hair. I nearly flipped. This afternoon the Hi-Gayles practiced at home. Margot Pimentel and I got into an argument again. Its just that sometimes she wants her way - result - we ended up by NOT singing “Devoted to You” I knew it all along. Tomorrow I’m going with Lita, Maricar, Marimil etc to the Assumption Mission Day. I hope, I hope I see Carlos.
November 25 - Saturday
This morning I went to the ANC. The Hi-Gayles practiced for a while. Mari Olbes was asking me about the combo. Lita was with us in the Teen Den and Arno, Beli, and Nena Barratta were there too. This pm, Lita picked me up to go to the Assumption Mission Day Fair. Conchita looked so pretty today. I talked with Emma. We almost had 2 or 3 free rides in every thing. Carlos was there and I saw Ginny too but she wasn’t with him. When we were in the auditorium I was talking to Marina and Carlos was standing right next to me! Today we didn’t greet each other. My fault I think. I was talking to Annie and Vicky Aboitiz is very nice. Joe Assad gave Marimil a gold ID bracelet. I was so tired when I got home.
November 26 - Sunday
Went to Mass early this morning with Mom and then to the ANC. We sat by the pool a while. Nacho, Gonzalo and Pichuco were there. Also Arno. Later Conchita, Arno and I sat in the Sunset Lounge and talked. Paul Tenny gave us free cokes. Arno, Conchita and Lita were making plans about the Prom - the one I’d like to be asked to go to but lets face it Lea - who’d ask??!! I’d like to go with Carlos or Arno but like the song goes...dream....I ate lunch at the ANC with Mom and Pop. This pm we went to school at 5:30 for the jazz concert. The Whirlpools were there with us. I like Freddy and Ramon an awful, awful lot. We were teasing Freddy about Pinky and Marimil (whom he calls ‘my pet’) and Ramon to Maricar. Jay is nice too but I like Mon and Freddy better. Tomorrow is Marimil’s feast day. I wish I could go to her house and see Freddy and Mon again.
November 27 - Monday
Study, study, study. I’m sick of it. I can’t stand Physics, History (ancient and medieval), English Grammar and Tagalog. We took up Robert Browning and Elizabeth Barrett Browning in Lit today. Her poem of “How Do I Love Thee” is so beautiful, I feel like crying when I read it. As I think of that poem only one name comes into my mind - Carlos! (The usual Carlos stuff follows for a couple of sentences...) My poor dad’s problems are worrying me a lot too.
November 28 - Tuesday
I read my entry in here of yesterday and it’s a little childish. I got my answer from Cosme today to the letter I wrote him. Man, he’s way out. He thinks I like Mari and Louie, of all people. (Even Cosme had to know that I couldn’t possibly have liked Louie Mac! He knew Agustin and Leo were high up there on my creep scale so I think Cosme, was, as usual, pulling my chain.) They don’t appeal to me very much. Also that Mari is the most conceited yet. You’d think he was some sort of hero or something. He wrote Cos telling him that Margie and I were offended that he didn’t sit with us at the table at Boy Blue’s party. Honestly!! Some people can really have their noses out of place. Talked to Mercy over the phone and she was furious about Mari too. Honey calls him a backbiter. I went to Bingo this evening and Luli was there with her parents and Pilina. They brought us home. Mr. Charter died last Sunday.
I went to Mass at 11:45 am at Ermita and then to the ANC. Conchita, Marina, Luli and Arno were there. Arno was busy talking to Beli over the phone. I ate lunch in Conchita’s house then we picked up Lita and went to see “Bachelor’s Flat” with Tuesday Weld and Dick Beymer, at the Rizal. As we sat down I noticed Carlos was sitting in front of me and I nearly died. He looked back twice and then he went out for a moment. When he came back as he slid into his seat he said a soft “Hi.” There went my pulse again. Later, Ginny, Beli came and he sat beside Ginny. Then we saw Linggoy and he left. We chatted with Cynthia for a while then we started to walk to Marina’s house. It was then I noticed Carlos and Arno walking behind us. My knees were slowly turning to jelly. Also while we walked a big black car stops near us and it was the Whirlpools! They offered us a ride but we declined. Freddy was there! I got more excited than ever with Freddy in front of me and Carlos and Arno behind us. We found a taxi finally on Pasay Road and we went to the ANC. Later in the afternoon, Pichuco Berenguer and Ditoy Atayde joined us girls. We just chatted and listened to the radio. Pichuco is very nice. Dad brought me home. Talked to Mercy over the phone.
November 20 - Monday
We had our sale in school this morning. I contributed a jar of guava jelly, and a jar of pickles. We sold sandwiches and halo-halo. This pm my stomach was acting up again and I skipped Tagalog classes to go to the clinic. I talked to Mercy over the phone - she is real worried since she got 4 failures in her report card. Marina also called me up. Arno is also failing but in 7 subjects. Tsk, tsk, if they keep this up where will they end up? Well, I’d better not talk since my Physics is way out too. Mercy tells me that Tessie Mapua doesn’t think Carlos is handsome or anything . Well, if she’d look at herself in the mirror once in a while she wouldn’t talk so much.
November 21 - Tuesday
The usual boring day in school. I despise homework and the only thing that keeps me from being absent the whole week is the fact that I can’t afford to miss another lecture in Physics. To think I have 79 more regular days of school makes me sick. I mean I love my classmates and teachers and I like to learn but that darned homework, tests, exams, quizzes, memorizing, solving....etc. UGH This afternoon the Hi-Gayles came home and we had to decide which songs we are going to sing on Sunday. I do hope the Strads play. The Looney Tunes might sing so the competition is really up. I hope Salvador is there. He is a very nice guy and the Whirlpools might come – Freddy Infante! Mary Ann said that Mari (her brother) might come with you-know-who. Carlos won’t be able to sing but just his presence will do it for me. Funny how every time I mention Carlos, I seem to see Ginny’s face. Pocholo B. Asked Magu to La Salle’s J-S Prom. Lucky her! There’s one dream I know won’t come true. Can you imagine me going with Carlos?! Wake up girl. But I think I’d be the happiest girl in the word if I could walk into the prom with Carlos. I’d give anything...oh well, dream....I got to thinking about Arno and I think I know why he’s changed from the charming sweet person he was to an aloof, sarcastic person.
November 22 - Wednesday
It was very cold this morning with this typhoon and all. It was very colorful to see everyone with different colored sweaters in school. Miss Jusi and Mrs. Patag were absent this pm. The Hi-Gayles practiced at home this evening. Mercy called up and read me Cosme’s letter to her. Now I realize that Cosme just thinks of me as a friend. Not even a special one like Margie (Oh, spare me!) or Mercy (who he loves still). I’m just a closed chapter in his life. He’s much closer to Margie and Mercy as I see by his letters. Face it Lea, you never meant anything to him. Louie Mac has invited Mercy to the prom.
November 23 - Thursday
We went to a friend of my father’s for Thanksgiving this noon. This afternoon Mom and I went to see “Elephant Walk” with Liz Taylor and Peter Finch at the Rizal. Then we went to the ANC for a while. I looked in the Teen Den and Ramon Faustman and Arno were playing the piano. I was so happy to see Arno (???) My heart beat a teeny bit faster. I talked with him for a while and tonight he was his old self. I like him and Freddy Infante best. I talked with Mercy for hours tonight. We talked about Carlos, Cosme, Louie, Tony O., etc., etc., etc. mercy likes Tony a lot and I was right about one thing - if Cosme came back now, she’d go steady with him without a second thought. Mercy admitted it. We talked until 10:45 pm. Everyone it seems is going to the La Salle prom.
November 24 - Friday
Mrs. Patag said I wasn’t doing as good in class as I have before and that I’ve changed in the past 2 months etc. Well, the plain truth is that I’m fed up with school. I mean I get so restless in a classroom all day. There are times when I feel like screaming in the middle of a class. I hate it! But, I’ll try to do better these coming months. This morning we went to the Science Exhibit with Mrs. Buencamino and the class. The Hi-Gayles stuck together all the time. There was the handsomest American guy there. Tall, with blue eyes and sandy hair. I nearly flipped. This afternoon the Hi-Gayles practiced at home. Margot Pimentel and I got into an argument again. Its just that sometimes she wants her way - result - we ended up by NOT singing “Devoted to You” I knew it all along. Tomorrow I’m going with Lita, Maricar, Marimil etc to the Assumption Mission Day. I hope, I hope I see Carlos.
November 25 - Saturday
This morning I went to the ANC. The Hi-Gayles practiced for a while. Mari Olbes was asking me about the combo. Lita was with us in the Teen Den and Arno, Beli, and Nena Barratta were there too. This pm, Lita picked me up to go to the Assumption Mission Day Fair. Conchita looked so pretty today. I talked with Emma. We almost had 2 or 3 free rides in every thing. Carlos was there and I saw Ginny too but she wasn’t with him. When we were in the auditorium I was talking to Marina and Carlos was standing right next to me! Today we didn’t greet each other. My fault I think. I was talking to Annie and Vicky Aboitiz is very nice. Joe Assad gave Marimil a gold ID bracelet. I was so tired when I got home.
November 26 - Sunday
Went to Mass early this morning with Mom and then to the ANC. We sat by the pool a while. Nacho, Gonzalo and Pichuco were there. Also Arno. Later Conchita, Arno and I sat in the Sunset Lounge and talked. Paul Tenny gave us free cokes. Arno, Conchita and Lita were making plans about the Prom - the one I’d like to be asked to go to but lets face it Lea - who’d ask??!! I’d like to go with Carlos or Arno but like the song goes...dream....I ate lunch at the ANC with Mom and Pop. This pm we went to school at 5:30 for the jazz concert. The Whirlpools were there with us. I like Freddy and Ramon an awful, awful lot. We were teasing Freddy about Pinky and Marimil (whom he calls ‘my pet’) and Ramon to Maricar. Jay is nice too but I like Mon and Freddy better. Tomorrow is Marimil’s feast day. I wish I could go to her house and see Freddy and Mon again.
November 27 - Monday
Study, study, study. I’m sick of it. I can’t stand Physics, History (ancient and medieval), English Grammar and Tagalog. We took up Robert Browning and Elizabeth Barrett Browning in Lit today. Her poem of “How Do I Love Thee” is so beautiful, I feel like crying when I read it. As I think of that poem only one name comes into my mind - Carlos! (The usual Carlos stuff follows for a couple of sentences...) My poor dad’s problems are worrying me a lot too.
November 28 - Tuesday
I read my entry in here of yesterday and it’s a little childish. I got my answer from Cosme today to the letter I wrote him. Man, he’s way out. He thinks I like Mari and Louie, of all people. (Even Cosme had to know that I couldn’t possibly have liked Louie Mac! He knew Agustin and Leo were high up there on my creep scale so I think Cosme, was, as usual, pulling my chain.) They don’t appeal to me very much. Also that Mari is the most conceited yet. You’d think he was some sort of hero or something. He wrote Cos telling him that Margie and I were offended that he didn’t sit with us at the table at Boy Blue’s party. Honestly!! Some people can really have their noses out of place. Talked to Mercy over the phone and she was furious about Mari too. Honey calls him a backbiter. I went to Bingo this evening and Luli was there with her parents and Pilina. They brought us home. Mr. Charter died last Sunday.
Wednesday, October 28, 2009
November 14 - 18, 1961
Nov 14 - Tuesday
I went to the ANC after leaving the material for my HG costume at the dressmakers. Luli, Conchita, and Lita were there. I told them about the party last night and how nice Freddy and Ramon Infante are. I ate lunch there with Mom then Lita picked me up and she, Conchita and I went to the Rizal to see “Scream of Fear” with Susan Strasberg. What a terrifying picture! We sat in the same row with the Beeps - Margot, Entang, Mary, etc. We were also talking to Vicky and Annie outside in the lobby. Marina was with Inger and later they saw the movie again with Honey and Butch. I didn’t see Carlos as I got in but when we sat down, Conchita whispers to me that Carlos is sitting in the row behind us. As I looked back I didn’t see Carlos but saw Arno looking straight at me. I didn’t look back any more. Later, near the end and most exciting part of the picture and most terrifying part there were two guys in front of us who kept warning us that the scary part was coming - the voice of one sounded familiar and as I looked closely I saw that it was - Carlos with Arno. When the movie was over, we went out and since it was only 4 pm, Lita’s car hadn’t arrived so we waited by one of the ticket booths that were not in use. Carlos was in the canteen with Arno and Linggoy (which Conchita was all excited about). As we stood there, Carlos came out of the canteen and walked right in front of Lita and me. He looked straight at me and smiled wickedly and then sauntered outside to say a few words to Vicky and Annie. Later, he stood a few feet away from us while Margotin talked to me. She went over to talk to him and we had to leave right then. I just said goodby to Entang and Margotin and didn’t even look at Carlos. I asked Lita if I blushed when Carlos said hello and Lita says I was nice and rosy. We went back to the ANC. I stayed there until 9 pm. Marina called home this evening. Wonder what she wanted. Dad hasn’t been home in almost 48 hours because of the coverage of the elections. He has been on the air the whole day and night. We still don’t know whose won - Garcia or Macapagal. May the best man win. I think my heart nearly stopped when Carlos said hello. I didn’t go to school this morning. This afternoon I did. Everyone got her report card today but since mine was late, I didn’t see it. Mrs. Buencamino gives me a hint that I failed in Physics. Oh, please, NO! This evening the Hi-Gayles practiced for the “Melody In Beat” on Friday. I’m getting awfully scared too. Tomorrow’s our last day to practice. I’m really very disappointed about Friday since the Whirlpools are not sure to play and Carlos can’t sing at all since he got something in his lungs. He’s got to take it easy. He can’t even go to Mike Prieto’s party on Saturday. Maybe its just as well, then I won’t have to bear the hurt of watching him dance with Ginny. No offense to Ginny, who so nice, but what a life!
Nov 16 - Thursday
Cosme answered my letter and I received it today. It’s a warm and friendly letter and has made Cosme seem closer than those 10,000 miles. I really miss him and as I’ve said - I liked him more than I did any other goy except Carlos. I also got my report card today and did NOT fail in Physics, through the mercy of Mrs. Buencamino and I went up in four subjects. (How I accomplished this when I never seem to be in school nor study is beyond me, these very long years later...ah, to be 17 and think we could do it all...) We have to stay in school tomorrow until five though Sr. Chantal’s bright ideas. How are we going to prepare ourselves for the concert at 6 PM in half an hour is beyond me but that’s the way the cookie crumbles. We practiced this evening for the last time and all seems ok. I hope everything goes well tomorrow. Marina saw Nacho and Carlos together today!!
Nov 17 - Friday - “Melody In Beat”
We had our first 4th year debate from 4 - 5 pm. Margot Pimentel spoke stupendously. This evening we had our “Melody In Beat.” The Whirlpools were not there and the Strads could not play but Salvador Vaca was there and he heard us sing before the program and he said we were quite good. He sang “La Bamba” for us privately. Also a very lovely Spanish song. He looked at me all the time he was singing. He said we were invited to sing at his “The Electra.” Whether he said that for politeness or not I don’t know but he makes us feel good. When we say, the audience requested an encore and we sang “Jamaica Farewell” again. Salvador really liked that song. Later we went to Tita de Ocampo’s house to eat. I wish that Carlos had been there tonight. Tomorrow is Mike Prieto’s party. The Whirlpools will play. I won’t go to school tomorrow. (Didn’t the nuns have me down for a zillion absences??!)
Nov. 18 - Saturday
I’m beginning to get a bad cold so this morning I didn’t go to school. This noon, Magu, Susan, and Margot came home to get their things from yesterday. They decided not to go to school this afternoon so Mommy told them to call their homes and say that they were not going to school. Susan and Magu did so but Margot Pimentel could not get in touch with her mother. We slept a siesta when I was awakened by the telephone. It was Sr. Chantal asking for Susan and Margot. Margot got it from Sister and she and Susan went immediately back to school. Magu was not involved. Rambulan on Monday. Lita picked me up at quarter to 8 for Mike Prieto’s party. Lita, Conchita, Maricar and I were together. It was a nice party and I enjoyed myself better than I did at the Beeps despite the fact that Carlos wasn’t there. Maybe that’s why since I didn’t have to watch him dance with other girls. We sat in a row - Cynthia, Marimil, me, Conchita, Lita, Maricar and Ginny Brooks. All the girls are awfully nice. Marimil was all in a dither over returning her ring to Joe and Freddy Infante. Now I don’t blame Marimil a bit on the Freddy Infante line. He is one of the nicest most simpatico boys I’ve know. He’s got a delightful charm and sense of humor all his own. He’s 19 and in 3rd year college. Next to Carlos, he’s tops in my list. Tony Ortigas was with us and Maricar nearly died too. Linggoy kept dancing in front of Conchita who was furious but who’s heart was doing the tick-tock. I danced with Linggoy, Joe, Danny H., this guy Guidote, some other guy, Kenneth Brimo, etc. Later, we were in the powder room with Betina, Dita, Mary S., etc. Maripaz Godinez, etc. The Beeps are great gals too. We left at 11:30 and I got home by 11:55 PM. I broke the all time record. Tomorrow I might see Carlos. I have the feeling he’s asked Ginny to the La Salle’s J-S Prom.
November 19 - Sunday
I went to Mass at 11:45 am at Ermita and then to the ANC. Conchita, Marina, Luli and Arno were there. Arno was busy talking to Beli over the phone. I ate lunch in Conchita’s house then we picked up Lita and went to see “Bachelor’s Flat” with Tuesday Weld and Dick Beymer, at the Rizal. As we sat down I noticed Carlos was sitting in front of me and I nearly died. He looked back twice and then he went out for a moment. When he came back as he slid into his seat he said a soft “Hi.” There went my pulse again. Later, Ginny, Beli came and he sat beside Ginny. Then we saw Linggoy and he left. We chatted with Cynthia for a while then we started to walk to Marina’s house. It was then I noticed Carlos and Arno walking behind us. My knees were slowly turning to jelly. Also while we walked a big black car stops near us and it was the Whirlpools! They offered us a ride but we declined. Freddy was there! I got more excited than ever with Freddy in front of me and Carlos and Arno behind us. We found a taxi finally on Pasay Road and we went to the ANC. Later in the afternoon, Pichuco Berenguer and Ditoy Atayde joined us girls. We just chatted and listened to the radio. Pichuco is very nice. Dad brought me home. Talked to Mercy over the phone.
I went to the ANC after leaving the material for my HG costume at the dressmakers. Luli, Conchita, and Lita were there. I told them about the party last night and how nice Freddy and Ramon Infante are. I ate lunch there with Mom then Lita picked me up and she, Conchita and I went to the Rizal to see “Scream of Fear” with Susan Strasberg. What a terrifying picture! We sat in the same row with the Beeps - Margot, Entang, Mary, etc. We were also talking to Vicky and Annie outside in the lobby. Marina was with Inger and later they saw the movie again with Honey and Butch. I didn’t see Carlos as I got in but when we sat down, Conchita whispers to me that Carlos is sitting in the row behind us. As I looked back I didn’t see Carlos but saw Arno looking straight at me. I didn’t look back any more. Later, near the end and most exciting part of the picture and most terrifying part there were two guys in front of us who kept warning us that the scary part was coming - the voice of one sounded familiar and as I looked closely I saw that it was - Carlos with Arno. When the movie was over, we went out and since it was only 4 pm, Lita’s car hadn’t arrived so we waited by one of the ticket booths that were not in use. Carlos was in the canteen with Arno and Linggoy (which Conchita was all excited about). As we stood there, Carlos came out of the canteen and walked right in front of Lita and me. He looked straight at me and smiled wickedly and then sauntered outside to say a few words to Vicky and Annie. Later, he stood a few feet away from us while Margotin talked to me. She went over to talk to him and we had to leave right then. I just said goodby to Entang and Margotin and didn’t even look at Carlos. I asked Lita if I blushed when Carlos said hello and Lita says I was nice and rosy. We went back to the ANC. I stayed there until 9 pm. Marina called home this evening. Wonder what she wanted. Dad hasn’t been home in almost 48 hours because of the coverage of the elections. He has been on the air the whole day and night. We still don’t know whose won - Garcia or Macapagal. May the best man win. I think my heart nearly stopped when Carlos said hello. I didn’t go to school this morning. This afternoon I did. Everyone got her report card today but since mine was late, I didn’t see it. Mrs. Buencamino gives me a hint that I failed in Physics. Oh, please, NO! This evening the Hi-Gayles practiced for the “Melody In Beat” on Friday. I’m getting awfully scared too. Tomorrow’s our last day to practice. I’m really very disappointed about Friday since the Whirlpools are not sure to play and Carlos can’t sing at all since he got something in his lungs. He’s got to take it easy. He can’t even go to Mike Prieto’s party on Saturday. Maybe its just as well, then I won’t have to bear the hurt of watching him dance with Ginny. No offense to Ginny, who so nice, but what a life!
Nov 16 - Thursday
Cosme answered my letter and I received it today. It’s a warm and friendly letter and has made Cosme seem closer than those 10,000 miles. I really miss him and as I’ve said - I liked him more than I did any other goy except Carlos. I also got my report card today and did NOT fail in Physics, through the mercy of Mrs. Buencamino and I went up in four subjects. (How I accomplished this when I never seem to be in school nor study is beyond me, these very long years later...ah, to be 17 and think we could do it all...) We have to stay in school tomorrow until five though Sr. Chantal’s bright ideas. How are we going to prepare ourselves for the concert at 6 PM in half an hour is beyond me but that’s the way the cookie crumbles. We practiced this evening for the last time and all seems ok. I hope everything goes well tomorrow. Marina saw Nacho and Carlos together today!!
Nov 17 - Friday - “Melody In Beat”
We had our first 4th year debate from 4 - 5 pm. Margot Pimentel spoke stupendously. This evening we had our “Melody In Beat.” The Whirlpools were not there and the Strads could not play but Salvador Vaca was there and he heard us sing before the program and he said we were quite good. He sang “La Bamba” for us privately. Also a very lovely Spanish song. He looked at me all the time he was singing. He said we were invited to sing at his “The Electra.” Whether he said that for politeness or not I don’t know but he makes us feel good. When we say, the audience requested an encore and we sang “Jamaica Farewell” again. Salvador really liked that song. Later we went to Tita de Ocampo’s house to eat. I wish that Carlos had been there tonight. Tomorrow is Mike Prieto’s party. The Whirlpools will play. I won’t go to school tomorrow. (Didn’t the nuns have me down for a zillion absences??!)
Nov. 18 - Saturday
I’m beginning to get a bad cold so this morning I didn’t go to school. This noon, Magu, Susan, and Margot came home to get their things from yesterday. They decided not to go to school this afternoon so Mommy told them to call their homes and say that they were not going to school. Susan and Magu did so but Margot Pimentel could not get in touch with her mother. We slept a siesta when I was awakened by the telephone. It was Sr. Chantal asking for Susan and Margot. Margot got it from Sister and she and Susan went immediately back to school. Magu was not involved. Rambulan on Monday. Lita picked me up at quarter to 8 for Mike Prieto’s party. Lita, Conchita, Maricar and I were together. It was a nice party and I enjoyed myself better than I did at the Beeps despite the fact that Carlos wasn’t there. Maybe that’s why since I didn’t have to watch him dance with other girls. We sat in a row - Cynthia, Marimil, me, Conchita, Lita, Maricar and Ginny Brooks. All the girls are awfully nice. Marimil was all in a dither over returning her ring to Joe and Freddy Infante. Now I don’t blame Marimil a bit on the Freddy Infante line. He is one of the nicest most simpatico boys I’ve know. He’s got a delightful charm and sense of humor all his own. He’s 19 and in 3rd year college. Next to Carlos, he’s tops in my list. Tony Ortigas was with us and Maricar nearly died too. Linggoy kept dancing in front of Conchita who was furious but who’s heart was doing the tick-tock. I danced with Linggoy, Joe, Danny H., this guy Guidote, some other guy, Kenneth Brimo, etc. Later, we were in the powder room with Betina, Dita, Mary S., etc. Maripaz Godinez, etc. The Beeps are great gals too. We left at 11:30 and I got home by 11:55 PM. I broke the all time record. Tomorrow I might see Carlos. I have the feeling he’s asked Ginny to the La Salle’s J-S Prom.
November 19 - Sunday
I went to Mass at 11:45 am at Ermita and then to the ANC. Conchita, Marina, Luli and Arno were there. Arno was busy talking to Beli over the phone. I ate lunch in Conchita’s house then we picked up Lita and went to see “Bachelor’s Flat” with Tuesday Weld and Dick Beymer, at the Rizal. As we sat down I noticed Carlos was sitting in front of me and I nearly died. He looked back twice and then he went out for a moment. When he came back as he slid into his seat he said a soft “Hi.” There went my pulse again. Later, Ginny, Beli came and he sat beside Ginny. Then we saw Linggoy and he left. We chatted with Cynthia for a while then we started to walk to Marina’s house. It was then I noticed Carlos and Arno walking behind us. My knees were slowly turning to jelly. Also while we walked a big black car stops near us and it was the Whirlpools! They offered us a ride but we declined. Freddy was there! I got more excited than ever with Freddy in front of me and Carlos and Arno behind us. We found a taxi finally on Pasay Road and we went to the ANC. Later in the afternoon, Pichuco Berenguer and Ditoy Atayde joined us girls. We just chatted and listened to the radio. Pichuco is very nice. Dad brought me home. Talked to Mercy over the phone.
Tuesday, October 27, 2009
November 2 - 12, 1961
November 2 - Thursday
My test in Physics this morning wasn’t so bad. At least I got some answers. This afternoon I didn’t go to school. I went to Sylvino to cut my hair and then I went to the ANC for a little while. I was hoping to see Arno but he wasn’t there. Anyway, Marina, Susan, Cora and Margot came home to practice this pm. We didn’t practice since the guitar was out of order. (I actually wrote down that a guitar “was out of order.” Good grief!) They all went home at about 6:30. Margotin called up and I also talked with Mercy over the phone. She had a fight with Honey yesterday and a lot of other kalokohan. Tomorrow’s Friday and then it’ll be Saturday again.
November 3 - Friday
I made kuacha this afternoon. At 5:30 Mercy and Margie and I went to the De Ocampo residence for the Catholic Youth Club meeting. We discussed the coming “Melody In Beat.” The Strads, Electromaniacs, Whirlpools, Loony-Tuners, etc. and us Hi-Gayles will sing. I’m scared stiff to think we have to sing in front of all those merciless teenagers and to think that Carlos might be in the audience!!! I’ll be so excited my already squeaky voice might crack. I’m so happy I haven’t gotten any pimples on my face these days. Mercy, Margie, and Tita Pacita ate supper at home. The book “The Rosary” is simply magnificent.
November 4 - Saturday - Feast of St. Charles Borromeo
I cannot seem to forget the story of “The Rosary” The love that Garth Dalmain had for Jane Champion was so complete and so beautiful that I don’t think anything in this world could have separated them. I went to the ANC this pm after helping Mommy this morning at home. Mary Ann, Marina, Conchita, and Luli were there. We just sat in the Sunset Lounge, ate and talked. Mostly about Carlos Garcia,.Linggoy Araneta, etc. Tomorrow everyone is going to the Rizal since it’s a Debbie Reynolds picture but I won’t be able to since I’ve got that darned combo practice. Just the thought that Carlos might be there makes my heart ache. I’ve lost 3 pounds again.
November 5 - Sunday
Well, the dye is cast! This morning after Mass at 10 at the Ermita, I went to the ANC. Lita and Arno were in the Teen Den. Since Arno read that miserable scrap of paper he’s changed. He kept mentioning Carlos’s name this morning and his tone was very sarcastic. I don’t know why he doesn’t tease Conchita and if he does, he’s not sarcastic. I ate lunch at Marina’s house and then we went to the Rizal to see “The Second Time Around” with Debbie Reynolds. We couldn’t practice for the combo. Conchita was happy (happy, no, hysterical) to see Linggoy. Beli was there and she said hello, also Maricar, Dita, etc. Barbara...Carlos was there sitting beside Ginny. My heart slowly cracked again.
November 6 - Monday
We had our graduation pictures taken this morning. We had no classes except for Speech. There are a lot of girls in school who have a crush on Honey. Mari Valles made 22 points for La Salle on Saturday. I simply am amazed. Well, someday, everyone’s hidden talents come into the open. We had a quiz on Current Events this afternoon and I got 86. Marina came home with me today to hear some Richie Valens records that I borrowed from Conchita. Mercy called up this evening and read me Cosme’s second letter. He asks Mercy to tell me to write to him. I’ve written to him tonight and told him the thing I’ve been wanting to tell him for a long time that what a wonderful person I think he is. (We just had a blackout for 15 minutes this evening). I can’t get Arno and Carlos off my mind.
November 7 - Tuesday
Same old routine in school. I get so bothered in school. I don’t know how to explain it, but I’m dying for weekends and March seems like years away. Anyway, I mailed Cosme’s letter off this morning. I borrowed Fulton Oursler’s “Greatest Story Ever Told” from Sister Mila this afternoon. Margotin gave me, Margie and Mercy our invitations to Mike Prieto’s party on November 18. Here we go again...Tomorrow is Magu’s birthday and I completely forgot to get her something. She’s a very nice person and although some people don’t like her, she’s very nice to me.
November 8 - Wednesday - Margotin Ubago’s Birthday
I gave Margotin a little bottle of perfume and a card. This evening, she and Susan came home, we ate merienda and then we all went to Margotin’s house. Ah, San Lorenzo Village - just the thought that Carlos was just a few houses away made me quite light-headed and excited. We ate cake and sandwiches and salad. Margotin’s steady, Jaime Yoldi, came with some of his friends. He gave her a lovely gold chain and pearl pendant. But I find those guys real creepy and can’t understand why Margotin stands them. (He gave her a gold chain and pearl pendant, didn’t he! Didn’t see any of the guys I liked giving me anything remotely close.) Danny came over too and he is such a nice guy and so much better than those creepy Chancelors. Marina was looking for me and was sort of hurt that I went to Magu’s house.
November 9 - Thursday
Today we did almost nothing but practice for the Assembly tomorrow. I think its going to be corny but we’ll see. I dug out Mom’s Spanish costume - the white organdy one and it fits me perfectly. White agrees with me very well and I love long swishing skirts. I wish I had lived in the times when they wore those things. I finished my book and I wished again that I had lived during Jesus’s time on earth and known Him, but never mind, I’ll see Him in heaven. I have a test in Literature tomorrow and I don’t know a thing! Dad saw my report card today and he wasn’t mad at my 76% in Physics. Tomorrow the Hi-Gayles will go to Ateneo for practice. Wouldn’t it be wonderful if Carlos were there?!!! Times are real hard for us here at home. The money problem gets worse and Mom keeps rubbing it in everything I do. I know what the score is - what does she think of me??!
November 10 - Friday
Something that I knew would happen happened. It finally hit me in the face tonight. Margotin told me that Carlos likes Ginny Brooks. The moment Magu told me, my heart finally cracked in half - not crack, tear, is the better word (I was SUCH a drama queen!) Why do these things always happen to me?! Everyone else sails smoothly through life while....Oh, I’d better stop feeling sorry for myself. I wish I could go to Baguio and get away from Manila for a while. The city sure can get under your skin and some people in it too. Cosme was right after all. Oh, how I envy him. And, oh, Carlos......I didn’t go to school this morning but helped Mom. This afternoon we had the 3rd Assembly and I wore Mom’s white organdy Spanish dress for the Senior number. It all went very smoothly. The whole class was disappointed at not getting the OC banner (??). Not even 3rd place after we tried so hard to keep silence. Oh well, one disappointment after the other. The Hi-Gayles came home to practice then we went to one of the guys of C.Y.C. to practice again. We’re all a little wobbly on the tones but lets see what happens on Friday. I know though, first of all everybody else sings better than we do and we’ll make complete fools of ourselves and I’ll never show my face in public again. (Drama queen again...) Carlos might be in the audience and that’s all I need for my voice to crack from nervousness. Oh, I don’t know what’s wrong with me tonight. I am so pessimistic. Well, tomorrow is another day!
Nov 11 - Saturday
I went to the ANC this morning and Mercy, Chiqui, Albert, Anamarie Perez, Marina were there. Later Nena came with Nacho. I don’t know why I had this intuition to go to the Ateneo Jazz Concert - “Like Mad” then Nacho tells me this afternoon that Carlos is going to sing. Chiqui, Albert, Mercy, Conchita, Luli and I went together this evening. We sat in the 5th row! Maricar, Lita, Cynthia, Marimil etc. were on the other side. The Whirlpools (Jay, Ramon & Freddy) played first and then Carlos came on stage and sang. My heart was pounding so loudly, I swear Mercy heard it. He sang 2 Ricky Nelson songs and nothing every looked dreamier on a stage. He looked so handsome under the spotlight with his eyes half-closed and moving elegantly with the music. I could have looked at him forever! Tony O., Linggoy, Freddy, Peps, Joe A., and some other guys like Ricky Catala, Freddy Franco, Eddie Gonzalez etc. were all on the side where Lita, Maricar and Marimil etc. were. When it was over, we saw most of the Beeps like Dita, Betina, Entang, Vita, etc. Pinky V., Kathy Bruns etc. How I’d like to be in their gang too. They seem to have so much fun and the boys and girls are all so very nice. I shook hands most ceremoniously with Mari Ojeda. But, one guy whose face I cannot forget tonight is Carlos - as he stood under that spotlight singing - I like him more than ever I ever did before. He’s so wonderful and so, oh, everything!!! I’d better come back to life. Too much dreaming is bad. There was once when between the numbers of the “Abstracs” that we were all going to shout for “Carlos Garcia!”, we didn’t, but Mercy’s voice alone rose shrill and loud in that big auditorium – “ CARLOS!” Everyone turned to look at her and the four of us sank down in our seats. I was laughing so hard, the tears rolled down my cheeks. The “Strads” were terrific! They were the most applauded with the “Loony Larks” and this guy who sings like Harry Belafonte - they were all so good. To think us corny Hi-Gayles have to sing on Friday makes me sick. I hope Carlos sings on Friday - Oh lucky, lucky, lucky Ginny.
November 12 - Sunday
I went to Mass at 7 AM at San Marcelino Church and then to the CYC meeting. Mercy, Margie and the rest were there. Carlos might sing again on Friday! Oh, I hope...!!! I went to the ANC and Luli, Lita, and Conchita were there. I ate lunch with Inger, Marina and Merche. Arno joined us later and its maddening how I become so nervous and my hands turned ice-cold. He was being sarcastic again and made a few cracks about Carlos. He also made it a point for me to know that he and Carlos were going to be with Ginny and Beli. Never mind, as long as it is Ginny and Beli, they are wonderful girls. Inger, Merche and Marina asked me to join them but I couldn’t spend the afternoon driving around with them because I had already promised Luli, Lita, Conchita that I’d go to the movies with them. We went to see “Ring of Fire” at the Paris. The theme song of the picture is terrific, It’s an instrumental by Duane Eddy. We went back to the ANC at 4:40 PM. I was supposed to go to the NONA Junior Second Round opening with Mercy and Margie but couldn’t. We (Conchita, Lita and I) stayed in the party room and talked (with me doing most of the taking....). Dad brought us home, then Marina calls me up this evening with the BIG News - While they were driving around SanLo, they see a boy walking down Edades, stopped and offered him a ride and it was CARLOS! They drove him all over the place from Ricky to Jimmy’s house - to the Rizal etc. They were talking with him and the subject of Ginny came up. He vehemently denied liking her and said he’s looking around for a girl to go steady with and confident “I’ll find someone”(And I actually believed all this baloney!) Later they met Arno and Carlos at the Rizal again and they joined them. They had a wonderful time cracking jokes. Marina herself says that if he were taller “I’d run after him.” Just like Marina! Arno and Carlos later went to the Polo Club - from there I draw my own conclusions. I talked with Mercy over the phone this evening.......I went to Communion this morning. Pilina Berenguer’s brother Pichuco was with us this noon. He’s nice. Tomorrow I’ll have to buy the material for my costume on Friday, if not, I’m sunk. Well, so ends another day in this chapter of my life. All my friends are such darlings.
My test in Physics this morning wasn’t so bad. At least I got some answers. This afternoon I didn’t go to school. I went to Sylvino to cut my hair and then I went to the ANC for a little while. I was hoping to see Arno but he wasn’t there. Anyway, Marina, Susan, Cora and Margot came home to practice this pm. We didn’t practice since the guitar was out of order. (I actually wrote down that a guitar “was out of order.” Good grief!) They all went home at about 6:30. Margotin called up and I also talked with Mercy over the phone. She had a fight with Honey yesterday and a lot of other kalokohan. Tomorrow’s Friday and then it’ll be Saturday again.
November 3 - Friday
I made kuacha this afternoon. At 5:30 Mercy and Margie and I went to the De Ocampo residence for the Catholic Youth Club meeting. We discussed the coming “Melody In Beat.” The Strads, Electromaniacs, Whirlpools, Loony-Tuners, etc. and us Hi-Gayles will sing. I’m scared stiff to think we have to sing in front of all those merciless teenagers and to think that Carlos might be in the audience!!! I’ll be so excited my already squeaky voice might crack. I’m so happy I haven’t gotten any pimples on my face these days. Mercy, Margie, and Tita Pacita ate supper at home. The book “The Rosary” is simply magnificent.
November 4 - Saturday - Feast of St. Charles Borromeo
I cannot seem to forget the story of “The Rosary” The love that Garth Dalmain had for Jane Champion was so complete and so beautiful that I don’t think anything in this world could have separated them. I went to the ANC this pm after helping Mommy this morning at home. Mary Ann, Marina, Conchita, and Luli were there. We just sat in the Sunset Lounge, ate and talked. Mostly about Carlos Garcia,.Linggoy Araneta, etc. Tomorrow everyone is going to the Rizal since it’s a Debbie Reynolds picture but I won’t be able to since I’ve got that darned combo practice. Just the thought that Carlos might be there makes my heart ache. I’ve lost 3 pounds again.
November 5 - Sunday
Well, the dye is cast! This morning after Mass at 10 at the Ermita, I went to the ANC. Lita and Arno were in the Teen Den. Since Arno read that miserable scrap of paper he’s changed. He kept mentioning Carlos’s name this morning and his tone was very sarcastic. I don’t know why he doesn’t tease Conchita and if he does, he’s not sarcastic. I ate lunch at Marina’s house and then we went to the Rizal to see “The Second Time Around” with Debbie Reynolds. We couldn’t practice for the combo. Conchita was happy (happy, no, hysterical) to see Linggoy. Beli was there and she said hello, also Maricar, Dita, etc. Barbara...Carlos was there sitting beside Ginny. My heart slowly cracked again.
November 6 - Monday
We had our graduation pictures taken this morning. We had no classes except for Speech. There are a lot of girls in school who have a crush on Honey. Mari Valles made 22 points for La Salle on Saturday. I simply am amazed. Well, someday, everyone’s hidden talents come into the open. We had a quiz on Current Events this afternoon and I got 86. Marina came home with me today to hear some Richie Valens records that I borrowed from Conchita. Mercy called up this evening and read me Cosme’s second letter. He asks Mercy to tell me to write to him. I’ve written to him tonight and told him the thing I’ve been wanting to tell him for a long time that what a wonderful person I think he is. (We just had a blackout for 15 minutes this evening). I can’t get Arno and Carlos off my mind.
November 7 - Tuesday
Same old routine in school. I get so bothered in school. I don’t know how to explain it, but I’m dying for weekends and March seems like years away. Anyway, I mailed Cosme’s letter off this morning. I borrowed Fulton Oursler’s “Greatest Story Ever Told” from Sister Mila this afternoon. Margotin gave me, Margie and Mercy our invitations to Mike Prieto’s party on November 18. Here we go again...Tomorrow is Magu’s birthday and I completely forgot to get her something. She’s a very nice person and although some people don’t like her, she’s very nice to me.
November 8 - Wednesday - Margotin Ubago’s Birthday
I gave Margotin a little bottle of perfume and a card. This evening, she and Susan came home, we ate merienda and then we all went to Margotin’s house. Ah, San Lorenzo Village - just the thought that Carlos was just a few houses away made me quite light-headed and excited. We ate cake and sandwiches and salad. Margotin’s steady, Jaime Yoldi, came with some of his friends. He gave her a lovely gold chain and pearl pendant. But I find those guys real creepy and can’t understand why Margotin stands them. (He gave her a gold chain and pearl pendant, didn’t he! Didn’t see any of the guys I liked giving me anything remotely close.) Danny came over too and he is such a nice guy and so much better than those creepy Chancelors. Marina was looking for me and was sort of hurt that I went to Magu’s house.
November 9 - Thursday
Today we did almost nothing but practice for the Assembly tomorrow. I think its going to be corny but we’ll see. I dug out Mom’s Spanish costume - the white organdy one and it fits me perfectly. White agrees with me very well and I love long swishing skirts. I wish I had lived in the times when they wore those things. I finished my book and I wished again that I had lived during Jesus’s time on earth and known Him, but never mind, I’ll see Him in heaven. I have a test in Literature tomorrow and I don’t know a thing! Dad saw my report card today and he wasn’t mad at my 76% in Physics. Tomorrow the Hi-Gayles will go to Ateneo for practice. Wouldn’t it be wonderful if Carlos were there?!!! Times are real hard for us here at home. The money problem gets worse and Mom keeps rubbing it in everything I do. I know what the score is - what does she think of me??!
November 10 - Friday
Something that I knew would happen happened. It finally hit me in the face tonight. Margotin told me that Carlos likes Ginny Brooks. The moment Magu told me, my heart finally cracked in half - not crack, tear, is the better word (I was SUCH a drama queen!) Why do these things always happen to me?! Everyone else sails smoothly through life while....Oh, I’d better stop feeling sorry for myself. I wish I could go to Baguio and get away from Manila for a while. The city sure can get under your skin and some people in it too. Cosme was right after all. Oh, how I envy him. And, oh, Carlos......I didn’t go to school this morning but helped Mom. This afternoon we had the 3rd Assembly and I wore Mom’s white organdy Spanish dress for the Senior number. It all went very smoothly. The whole class was disappointed at not getting the OC banner (??). Not even 3rd place after we tried so hard to keep silence. Oh well, one disappointment after the other. The Hi-Gayles came home to practice then we went to one of the guys of C.Y.C. to practice again. We’re all a little wobbly on the tones but lets see what happens on Friday. I know though, first of all everybody else sings better than we do and we’ll make complete fools of ourselves and I’ll never show my face in public again. (Drama queen again...) Carlos might be in the audience and that’s all I need for my voice to crack from nervousness. Oh, I don’t know what’s wrong with me tonight. I am so pessimistic. Well, tomorrow is another day!
Nov 11 - Saturday
I went to the ANC this morning and Mercy, Chiqui, Albert, Anamarie Perez, Marina were there. Later Nena came with Nacho. I don’t know why I had this intuition to go to the Ateneo Jazz Concert - “Like Mad” then Nacho tells me this afternoon that Carlos is going to sing. Chiqui, Albert, Mercy, Conchita, Luli and I went together this evening. We sat in the 5th row! Maricar, Lita, Cynthia, Marimil etc. were on the other side. The Whirlpools (Jay, Ramon & Freddy) played first and then Carlos came on stage and sang. My heart was pounding so loudly, I swear Mercy heard it. He sang 2 Ricky Nelson songs and nothing every looked dreamier on a stage. He looked so handsome under the spotlight with his eyes half-closed and moving elegantly with the music. I could have looked at him forever! Tony O., Linggoy, Freddy, Peps, Joe A., and some other guys like Ricky Catala, Freddy Franco, Eddie Gonzalez etc. were all on the side where Lita, Maricar and Marimil etc. were. When it was over, we saw most of the Beeps like Dita, Betina, Entang, Vita, etc. Pinky V., Kathy Bruns etc. How I’d like to be in their gang too. They seem to have so much fun and the boys and girls are all so very nice. I shook hands most ceremoniously with Mari Ojeda. But, one guy whose face I cannot forget tonight is Carlos - as he stood under that spotlight singing - I like him more than ever I ever did before. He’s so wonderful and so, oh, everything!!! I’d better come back to life. Too much dreaming is bad. There was once when between the numbers of the “Abstracs” that we were all going to shout for “Carlos Garcia!”, we didn’t, but Mercy’s voice alone rose shrill and loud in that big auditorium – “ CARLOS!” Everyone turned to look at her and the four of us sank down in our seats. I was laughing so hard, the tears rolled down my cheeks. The “Strads” were terrific! They were the most applauded with the “Loony Larks” and this guy who sings like Harry Belafonte - they were all so good. To think us corny Hi-Gayles have to sing on Friday makes me sick. I hope Carlos sings on Friday - Oh lucky, lucky, lucky Ginny.
November 12 - Sunday
I went to Mass at 7 AM at San Marcelino Church and then to the CYC meeting. Mercy, Margie and the rest were there. Carlos might sing again on Friday! Oh, I hope...!!! I went to the ANC and Luli, Lita, and Conchita were there. I ate lunch with Inger, Marina and Merche. Arno joined us later and its maddening how I become so nervous and my hands turned ice-cold. He was being sarcastic again and made a few cracks about Carlos. He also made it a point for me to know that he and Carlos were going to be with Ginny and Beli. Never mind, as long as it is Ginny and Beli, they are wonderful girls. Inger, Merche and Marina asked me to join them but I couldn’t spend the afternoon driving around with them because I had already promised Luli, Lita, Conchita that I’d go to the movies with them. We went to see “Ring of Fire” at the Paris. The theme song of the picture is terrific, It’s an instrumental by Duane Eddy. We went back to the ANC at 4:40 PM. I was supposed to go to the NONA Junior Second Round opening with Mercy and Margie but couldn’t. We (Conchita, Lita and I) stayed in the party room and talked (with me doing most of the taking....). Dad brought us home, then Marina calls me up this evening with the BIG News - While they were driving around SanLo, they see a boy walking down Edades, stopped and offered him a ride and it was CARLOS! They drove him all over the place from Ricky to Jimmy’s house - to the Rizal etc. They were talking with him and the subject of Ginny came up. He vehemently denied liking her and said he’s looking around for a girl to go steady with and confident “I’ll find someone”(And I actually believed all this baloney!) Later they met Arno and Carlos at the Rizal again and they joined them. They had a wonderful time cracking jokes. Marina herself says that if he were taller “I’d run after him.” Just like Marina! Arno and Carlos later went to the Polo Club - from there I draw my own conclusions. I talked with Mercy over the phone this evening.......I went to Communion this morning. Pilina Berenguer’s brother Pichuco was with us this noon. He’s nice. Tomorrow I’ll have to buy the material for my costume on Friday, if not, I’m sunk. Well, so ends another day in this chapter of my life. All my friends are such darlings.
Monday, October 26, 2009
October 16 - November 1, 1961
October 16 - Monday
We’ve finished 3 exams so far and we’ve go the wars to go though yet. Physics tomorrow and I STILL DON’T KNOW A THING! I’m cutting this short so I can study. I’ve thought a lot about Carlos and Cosme tonight. I HATE PHYSICS!
October 17 - Tuesday - Nacho Marti, Emil Muniosguren and Margot Pimentel’s Birthdays
Well, as Nanette Garrovillo said this morning. We’ve been to hell and back. Physics was our hell. Boy if I got at least a hundred correct answers out of 200 I’ll have St. Jude to thank. I just scanned through Health. Spanish was a whiz and Tagalog, so-so. Just History and Literature tomorrow and then, THE END! The new Paulinian Office is so cozy. It’s just under the chapel and we spent all our free time fixing it up. They’re starting to build the new high school building already. Marina and I cut Charlie Armstrong’s picture out of the Atenean. He is one of the handsomest boys I’ve known. I don’t know a thing in History. Miss Usi liked my World War II report. She said it was very good - naks! All it does is rain these days. I’m beginning to forget what a blue sky looks like. I wish I could study a year in Baguio. I think a change of climate would do wonders for me. Carlos is still always on my mind. I find myself thinking of him almost involuntarily. This is awful!
October 18 - Wednesday
My History test was a complete mess! I had about 35 blanks out of 200 questions. Miss Usi will get heart failure when she sees my paper. My Literature exam was a little better. This afternoon we did absolutely nothing. We just sat in The Paulinian office and chatted with Miss Juco and read. I’m so happy tomorrow we have no class. And to think I might see Carlos on Sunday makes me glow all over. I like him so very much it hurts......I just live for weekends and sometimes he doesn’t even know I’m alive. I talked to Nena over the phone.
October 19 - Thursday
I went to the ANC and spent the whole day there. In the morning I sat in the swimming pool with Ditas Lanuza and a friend. Nacho, Ramon F., Ramon A. and Arno were also at the pool. This afternoon Nena came at 2 pm and we spent the afternoon reading the letters Alfredo Filo (one of the Argentinian cadets) had written to her. He is so in love with Nena and gosh those letters he writes are so sincere and romantic. It must be great to be loved by a boy so much and I don’t think Nena realizes that fully. She is one of my best friends. Marina came this pm with Margot P, Susan, Marilena and Alice G. They had come from the movies. I ate dinner with Daddy again since Mommy went to JUSMAG with Tita Pacita and Tita Meling and Freddy. I wanted so much to go. I talked with Mercy for over an hour and a half about Cosme, Carlos, Caloy, Mari, Honey etc. Her voice was horrible because of a sore throat and cold. She and Nena are of the friends I like the most.
October 20 - Friday
Its been another nice day. I went to the ANC this morning. Arno and Nacho were there and they asked me to join them. I talked with Mercy over the phone too. Then Nena came and Inger and Nacho and I watched Arno, Nena and Inger play tennis. We had a grand time chatting and laughing. Marina was there too. I told Nacho “Arno is very nice” and Nacho tells me “Well, Arno thinks you’re pretty nice too and so do I but then you wouldn’t believe us if we told you.” Gee, that made me feel so good. I went with Mom to Dr. Potenciano this noon and this mole I’ve had ever since I was born in my hairline was removed. I have a bandage on my left temple now. At least I won’t have that pesky thing anymore. I ate lunch with Nena, Marina, Inger and this Austrian princess - Sandra something, at the ANC. Then Nena drove us to Dairy Queen. We had a terrific time. That Nena is a riot driving the car. Then we all went to Nena’s house with Tita Carmen Marti. We ate churros and I was jumping around so much the wound from my mole started bleeding again and Tita Carmen put another band-aid on it. She’s a wonderful woman. I like her very much. Nena drove us back home. She dropped me over at the ANC where I waited for Daddy. I met Ramon Faustman while waiting for Dad and we chatted for about half an hour then he had to leave. Dad and I ate supper together since Mommy went to the movies with Tita Pacita. Two more days then I might see Carlos.....
October 21 - Saturday
I went to the ANC again today. Nacho, Connie, Ramon, Lita, Conchita, Luli, Jack A and Arno were there. We sat in the Teen room a while after staying the swimming pool. Jack Aguirre is such a nice guy and so is Arno. Then Jack and Arno left for the Rizal. Leslie, Jessica, Ditas, Mary Ann, Luli, Conchita and I spent the afternoon in the Teen Den. We danced and played records. I danced with this guy named Jimmy Ames who was with other guys and Luis Fernandez and Ramon Faustman were there too. This evening, Margie and I went to Ramon del Rosario’s (Boy Blue) party. It was very nice. We got there before anybody else but later the house was jam packed (by the way, the house was beautiful, big and very modern) I was so happy when Jack Aguirre arrived. The Falcons were there. Also Arno and Freddy Franco. Louie Mac is crazy about Mercy. I danced a lot with Arno, Jack A ( slow drag with Jack too), Freddy F, Louie Mac, Boy Blue, Mari Valles and some other guys I didn’t know. I had a wonderful time. The food was delicious and Maricris Tabora sang. Freddy Franco dances very well as do Arno and Jack. Louie Mac slipped and fell while dancing with me (He’s hopeless). Cosme has written to Victor Franco already. Jack Aguirre is so nice...
October 22 - Sunday
I went to Mass at 11 am at Ermita then I went to ANC. Lita, Luli, Conchita, Nena, Marina and Arno were there. Marina was all excited about this guy she met last night at the ANC “Italian Night.” When I said that I didn’t know whom to invite for our Senior prom, Arno tells me, why don’t you take me?” and I said “You won’t believe this but I’d ask you if you weren’t going steady with Beli” and Arno says “For all you know, I might break one of these days..” I was sort of stunned and well, no comment. This noon Mommy asked me to call Tita Marina Asparren. My hand was shaking because I had the feeling CG would answer the phone and he did!! My heart did a zillion somersaults. I went to Marina’s house and Inger brought us home. I went to the Rizal to see “Tammy.” Carlos wasn’t there. I was so disappointed. What a dreary life.
October 23 - Monday
For once it wasn’t blue Monday except that I failed my Physics exam - 70%. Mrs. Buencamino said my theoretical wasn’t bad, it was the problems that pulled me down. In History I got 91 out of 170 items. Pretty bad but at least I passed. This afternoon we had the representatives from the embassies of Australia - Mr. Sadler, Germany - Honora Von Furstenberg, England - Miss Thorn, Spain - Milagros Gomez, and Italy - Mrs. Cappini. Mr. Sadler knows Bill de Witt. Honora is such a nice person too. Mercy called up tonight to say that she finally got Cosme’s letter. She read it to me. It’s a lovely letter and so much like Cosme. He said he will write more in the future. Tomorrow is Mommy’s birthday and I haven’t a thing to give her!
October 24 - Tuesday - Mommy’s Birthday - she’s 46 years old.
This afternoon Mom made me skip school since she wanted me to help her with the arrangements for her Mah-Jongg party at the ANC. We went there this pm. Nena and Inger were there and I spent the afternoon with them and Tita Carmen Marti. We talked about the good ol’ summer days. After they left, I sat and read until the Mah-Jongg game finished. (Tita Marina Asparren was there too - why couldn’t it have been her nephew). We all went to Bingo this evening. I sat with Luli and her aunt. She told me Maricar B broke with Ramon Infante and that Lita’s having differences with her Peps. Since my period is coming in a few days these darned pimples are popping up on my face again. I just pray that they won’t be here next Tuesday for the Beeps party. Its 12 am and I’m still awake. Just wait and see what this face of mine looks like tomorrow.
October 25 - Wednesday
This noon time Marina and I went to the ANC for lunch. We sat in the sun in our bathing suites. It was very relaxing. This afternoon, the Hi-Gayles couldn’t practice our songs. So, we decided to practice tomorrow here at home. This evening ended none to happily. Mom and Dad had a terrible argument. Dad’s nerves are really on edge since the money problems get worse every day and money does not grow on trees and Dad isn’t getting any younger. The future looks pretty gloomy but a stiff upper lip always helps. I hope the bill of the ANC hasn’t run too high. (Did it not occur to me to stop going there for awhile?!) I don’t want to attend the Christ the King procession on Sunday but a little sacrifice would help.
October 26 - Thursday
I feel so out of sorts this evening. Maybe its because Mommy doesn’t feel well and Daddy has many problems, mostly financial, and these things affect me. I don’t think I’ll be able to have a dress made for the Beeps party since Mommy still owes money to the dressmaker. I’m hoping for some sort of miracle but those don’t happen very often. Margotin gave me a picture of Carlos’s lovely home without me asking her. I don’t know what I feel for Carlos is love but whatever it is its pretty close. (And on and on.......) Magu, Margot, Marina, Cora came to practice at home tonight. Please dear God, help my Mom and Dad.
October 27 - Friday
Physics class was fun this morning since all we had were experiments. We had a test in History this afternoon and boy did I flunk that. Everybody did pretty badly. Margotin is one of the NICEST these days. This pm we went to the dressmakers to give the material for my dress for the Beeps party (I never appreciated the sacrifices my mother and father made to make my life roll on without a hitch.) Margotin came home with me and we ate merienda till Magu left at 6 pm. Dad and Mom simply don’t understand each other. Eileen was telling us about Maripi Gomez’s debut last night. It was pretty nice she said. I washed my hair this evening and its all fluffy and nice. I’ve got loads of things to do tomorrow. I hope I can go to the ANC. I’d like to talk to Luli and Lita and see Arno. In just a few days I’ll be able to see Carlos.
October 28 - Saturday
Mommy made me stay home this morning so I couldn’t go to the ANC. This afternoon I was going to go but I couldn’t either. I learned from Mary Ann Ojeda that Arno was there this am too. I went to see “Women in White” this pm with Mary Ann, Lulu and her aunt. I saw Butch Catala there. Then Mary Ann, Arabella, Lulu and I went together to Baby Barredo’s house for the cast party. Butch, Jigger, Juan Miguel Llamas, etc. were there. I danced with Butch and Angel Villareal. Butch is a terrific dancer and such a wonderful guy. He is thoroughly through with Inger. Juan Miguel Llamas brought me home with Arabella and Mary Ann. I got home at 12:10 AM. Phew, just in time too! I don’t think I’ll be able to see Carlos tomorrow - darn!
October 29 - Sunday - Arlette Teucher’s Birthday
Mom, Mercy and I went to Mass at Ermita at 10 am. We met Nena at Mass and we all went together to the ANC. Later we dropped Mom off at Tita Pacita’s house and we went back to the ANC. I was so happy to see Arno. He was with Juaco but we just exchanged a few hellos. Nena had to go to the Yacht Club so Mercy and I ate lunch then donned our bathing suits to go swimming. Arabella and Ana Marie G were there. We sat and chatted in the sun. Margie Llullier is back. Nacho was there too, also Ramon Faustman, Lita, Luli and Conchita came later and we all sat in the Sunset Lounge with Marina and Charito Malarki. Lita, Luli, Conchita, Mercy and I went to Lita’s apartment to play records. Mercy and I got home at 6:30 pm. I got a teeny weeny bit of sunburn. Arno is very nice but wouldn’t it have been wonderful if Carlos had been there today.
October 30 - Monday
Same old routine in school. Since they’ve started to build the new HS building, that hammering and pounding is driving us wild. We can’t even hear ourselves think. I like Mrs. Buencamino so much despite the fact that she teaches that dreaded subject - Physics. Mom, Magu and I went to my dressmakers to try on my dress for the Beeps party. I hope it comes out all right. Magu’s pop picked her up at 6 pm here at home. Margotin is a real dippy kid. I washed my hair this evening. I hope it looks at least decent tomorrow. St. Jude is a real doll. I asked him not make me have any pimples for Tuesday and even if my “observing” times is here. I haven’t got any unsightly pimples. Tomorrow D-day. So far, every Beeps party I’ve gone to has been a minor catastrophe. Let’s see if I break the record tomorrow.
October 31 - Tuesday - Happy Halloween! Beep-Beeps Party
Well, it hasn’t been a happy Halloween. The Beeps party was a smash hit for everyone - except me! I don’t know what it is but at every Beeps party I have a gruesome time. Its some sort of a jinx I guess. Tonight I’ve liked Carlos more than I ever have. The moment he walked in the room everyone else simply disappeared. When he was dancing with that girl the slow drag I’d have given anything in the world to change places with her. To feel the touch of his hand and have those wonderful brown eyes look down at me... (And yet again I go on, a lot, about Carlos. I guess this guy really had a hold on me but I won’t bore anyone else with my wistful meanderings..) I danced with Peps, Manolette, Linggoy, Butch, Cris C, Joe Assad, Leo and some guys whose names I don’t recall. I’m dead tired. What a heartbreaking evening.
November 1 - Wednesday
Honestly, the trouble I get into sometimes its incredible. I’ll explain. This morning I went to Mass at Ermita with Mom at 10 then I went to the ANC. Conchita and Lita were there. We sat in the Sunset Lounge then Arno joined us. I was so happy to see him. He was wearing a very nice shirt. I ate lunch at Conchita’s house (I forgot to mention Arno was wearing Beli’s ring). While at Conchita’s house we started writing on a blank page in my notebook, Carlos, Linggoy and Arno’s names. We walked back to the ANC in the afternoon. I accidentally dropped my notebook in the canal and the pad became dirty. When we reached the ANC Arno lent us his portable phonograph and we went into the little party room and put on records. When Arno came in to join us I remembered the page in my notebook with the names and I tore it carefully and tossed it on one of the chairs. We were dancing and chatting. Lita, Conchita, Marimil, Luli, Marina and Nena were also there. Arno was teach or rather showing us how to dance the “bye-bye.” (He dances beautifully with such rhythm.) Anyway after a while Arno happened to sit down where I had left the pieces of paper and he started to read them. I saw him just then and grabbed it. I don’t know how much he actually saw, maybe Carlos and Linggoy’s names. Conchita and I were nearly hysterical, and you know me, I get so flabbergasted when such embarrassing things happen. I’ll die if he saw his name because Conchita made it clear that I wrote it. All I can hope for now is that Carlos and Arno don’t end up despising me or something. What will Arno think?! He’s going steady with Beli and Carlos doesn’t give a hoot. Well it won’t be the first time I’ve blundered things and it probably won’t be the last. Of all the idiotic....Nacho came later with Ramon Faustman and Pilina Berenguer’s Pichuco. Pilina just got back from Spain. I can’t get over Arno - he’s such a wonderful person and if he dislikes me well, that’s all I need to add to my miseries and what if he tells Carlos - I’ll die!!! (This is all so stupid and I wanted to delete it, but if I did I wouldn’t be true to faithfully transcribing this diary so I left it in - corny as it may be to read.)
We’ve finished 3 exams so far and we’ve go the wars to go though yet. Physics tomorrow and I STILL DON’T KNOW A THING! I’m cutting this short so I can study. I’ve thought a lot about Carlos and Cosme tonight. I HATE PHYSICS!
October 17 - Tuesday - Nacho Marti, Emil Muniosguren and Margot Pimentel’s Birthdays
Well, as Nanette Garrovillo said this morning. We’ve been to hell and back. Physics was our hell. Boy if I got at least a hundred correct answers out of 200 I’ll have St. Jude to thank. I just scanned through Health. Spanish was a whiz and Tagalog, so-so. Just History and Literature tomorrow and then, THE END! The new Paulinian Office is so cozy. It’s just under the chapel and we spent all our free time fixing it up. They’re starting to build the new high school building already. Marina and I cut Charlie Armstrong’s picture out of the Atenean. He is one of the handsomest boys I’ve known. I don’t know a thing in History. Miss Usi liked my World War II report. She said it was very good - naks! All it does is rain these days. I’m beginning to forget what a blue sky looks like. I wish I could study a year in Baguio. I think a change of climate would do wonders for me. Carlos is still always on my mind. I find myself thinking of him almost involuntarily. This is awful!
October 18 - Wednesday
My History test was a complete mess! I had about 35 blanks out of 200 questions. Miss Usi will get heart failure when she sees my paper. My Literature exam was a little better. This afternoon we did absolutely nothing. We just sat in The Paulinian office and chatted with Miss Juco and read. I’m so happy tomorrow we have no class. And to think I might see Carlos on Sunday makes me glow all over. I like him so very much it hurts......I just live for weekends and sometimes he doesn’t even know I’m alive. I talked to Nena over the phone.
October 19 - Thursday
I went to the ANC and spent the whole day there. In the morning I sat in the swimming pool with Ditas Lanuza and a friend. Nacho, Ramon F., Ramon A. and Arno were also at the pool. This afternoon Nena came at 2 pm and we spent the afternoon reading the letters Alfredo Filo (one of the Argentinian cadets) had written to her. He is so in love with Nena and gosh those letters he writes are so sincere and romantic. It must be great to be loved by a boy so much and I don’t think Nena realizes that fully. She is one of my best friends. Marina came this pm with Margot P, Susan, Marilena and Alice G. They had come from the movies. I ate dinner with Daddy again since Mommy went to JUSMAG with Tita Pacita and Tita Meling and Freddy. I wanted so much to go. I talked with Mercy for over an hour and a half about Cosme, Carlos, Caloy, Mari, Honey etc. Her voice was horrible because of a sore throat and cold. She and Nena are of the friends I like the most.
October 20 - Friday
Its been another nice day. I went to the ANC this morning. Arno and Nacho were there and they asked me to join them. I talked with Mercy over the phone too. Then Nena came and Inger and Nacho and I watched Arno, Nena and Inger play tennis. We had a grand time chatting and laughing. Marina was there too. I told Nacho “Arno is very nice” and Nacho tells me “Well, Arno thinks you’re pretty nice too and so do I but then you wouldn’t believe us if we told you.” Gee, that made me feel so good. I went with Mom to Dr. Potenciano this noon and this mole I’ve had ever since I was born in my hairline was removed. I have a bandage on my left temple now. At least I won’t have that pesky thing anymore. I ate lunch with Nena, Marina, Inger and this Austrian princess - Sandra something, at the ANC. Then Nena drove us to Dairy Queen. We had a terrific time. That Nena is a riot driving the car. Then we all went to Nena’s house with Tita Carmen Marti. We ate churros and I was jumping around so much the wound from my mole started bleeding again and Tita Carmen put another band-aid on it. She’s a wonderful woman. I like her very much. Nena drove us back home. She dropped me over at the ANC where I waited for Daddy. I met Ramon Faustman while waiting for Dad and we chatted for about half an hour then he had to leave. Dad and I ate supper together since Mommy went to the movies with Tita Pacita. Two more days then I might see Carlos.....
October 21 - Saturday
I went to the ANC again today. Nacho, Connie, Ramon, Lita, Conchita, Luli, Jack A and Arno were there. We sat in the Teen room a while after staying the swimming pool. Jack Aguirre is such a nice guy and so is Arno. Then Jack and Arno left for the Rizal. Leslie, Jessica, Ditas, Mary Ann, Luli, Conchita and I spent the afternoon in the Teen Den. We danced and played records. I danced with this guy named Jimmy Ames who was with other guys and Luis Fernandez and Ramon Faustman were there too. This evening, Margie and I went to Ramon del Rosario’s (Boy Blue) party. It was very nice. We got there before anybody else but later the house was jam packed (by the way, the house was beautiful, big and very modern) I was so happy when Jack Aguirre arrived. The Falcons were there. Also Arno and Freddy Franco. Louie Mac is crazy about Mercy. I danced a lot with Arno, Jack A ( slow drag with Jack too), Freddy F, Louie Mac, Boy Blue, Mari Valles and some other guys I didn’t know. I had a wonderful time. The food was delicious and Maricris Tabora sang. Freddy Franco dances very well as do Arno and Jack. Louie Mac slipped and fell while dancing with me (He’s hopeless). Cosme has written to Victor Franco already. Jack Aguirre is so nice...
October 22 - Sunday
I went to Mass at 11 am at Ermita then I went to ANC. Lita, Luli, Conchita, Nena, Marina and Arno were there. Marina was all excited about this guy she met last night at the ANC “Italian Night.” When I said that I didn’t know whom to invite for our Senior prom, Arno tells me, why don’t you take me?” and I said “You won’t believe this but I’d ask you if you weren’t going steady with Beli” and Arno says “For all you know, I might break one of these days..” I was sort of stunned and well, no comment. This noon Mommy asked me to call Tita Marina Asparren. My hand was shaking because I had the feeling CG would answer the phone and he did!! My heart did a zillion somersaults. I went to Marina’s house and Inger brought us home. I went to the Rizal to see “Tammy.” Carlos wasn’t there. I was so disappointed. What a dreary life.
October 23 - Monday
For once it wasn’t blue Monday except that I failed my Physics exam - 70%. Mrs. Buencamino said my theoretical wasn’t bad, it was the problems that pulled me down. In History I got 91 out of 170 items. Pretty bad but at least I passed. This afternoon we had the representatives from the embassies of Australia - Mr. Sadler, Germany - Honora Von Furstenberg, England - Miss Thorn, Spain - Milagros Gomez, and Italy - Mrs. Cappini. Mr. Sadler knows Bill de Witt. Honora is such a nice person too. Mercy called up tonight to say that she finally got Cosme’s letter. She read it to me. It’s a lovely letter and so much like Cosme. He said he will write more in the future. Tomorrow is Mommy’s birthday and I haven’t a thing to give her!
October 24 - Tuesday - Mommy’s Birthday - she’s 46 years old.
This afternoon Mom made me skip school since she wanted me to help her with the arrangements for her Mah-Jongg party at the ANC. We went there this pm. Nena and Inger were there and I spent the afternoon with them and Tita Carmen Marti. We talked about the good ol’ summer days. After they left, I sat and read until the Mah-Jongg game finished. (Tita Marina Asparren was there too - why couldn’t it have been her nephew). We all went to Bingo this evening. I sat with Luli and her aunt. She told me Maricar B broke with Ramon Infante and that Lita’s having differences with her Peps. Since my period is coming in a few days these darned pimples are popping up on my face again. I just pray that they won’t be here next Tuesday for the Beeps party. Its 12 am and I’m still awake. Just wait and see what this face of mine looks like tomorrow.
October 25 - Wednesday
This noon time Marina and I went to the ANC for lunch. We sat in the sun in our bathing suites. It was very relaxing. This afternoon, the Hi-Gayles couldn’t practice our songs. So, we decided to practice tomorrow here at home. This evening ended none to happily. Mom and Dad had a terrible argument. Dad’s nerves are really on edge since the money problems get worse every day and money does not grow on trees and Dad isn’t getting any younger. The future looks pretty gloomy but a stiff upper lip always helps. I hope the bill of the ANC hasn’t run too high. (Did it not occur to me to stop going there for awhile?!) I don’t want to attend the Christ the King procession on Sunday but a little sacrifice would help.
October 26 - Thursday
I feel so out of sorts this evening. Maybe its because Mommy doesn’t feel well and Daddy has many problems, mostly financial, and these things affect me. I don’t think I’ll be able to have a dress made for the Beeps party since Mommy still owes money to the dressmaker. I’m hoping for some sort of miracle but those don’t happen very often. Margotin gave me a picture of Carlos’s lovely home without me asking her. I don’t know what I feel for Carlos is love but whatever it is its pretty close. (And on and on.......) Magu, Margot, Marina, Cora came to practice at home tonight. Please dear God, help my Mom and Dad.
October 27 - Friday
Physics class was fun this morning since all we had were experiments. We had a test in History this afternoon and boy did I flunk that. Everybody did pretty badly. Margotin is one of the NICEST these days. This pm we went to the dressmakers to give the material for my dress for the Beeps party (I never appreciated the sacrifices my mother and father made to make my life roll on without a hitch.) Margotin came home with me and we ate merienda till Magu left at 6 pm. Dad and Mom simply don’t understand each other. Eileen was telling us about Maripi Gomez’s debut last night. It was pretty nice she said. I washed my hair this evening and its all fluffy and nice. I’ve got loads of things to do tomorrow. I hope I can go to the ANC. I’d like to talk to Luli and Lita and see Arno. In just a few days I’ll be able to see Carlos.
October 28 - Saturday
Mommy made me stay home this morning so I couldn’t go to the ANC. This afternoon I was going to go but I couldn’t either. I learned from Mary Ann Ojeda that Arno was there this am too. I went to see “Women in White” this pm with Mary Ann, Lulu and her aunt. I saw Butch Catala there. Then Mary Ann, Arabella, Lulu and I went together to Baby Barredo’s house for the cast party. Butch, Jigger, Juan Miguel Llamas, etc. were there. I danced with Butch and Angel Villareal. Butch is a terrific dancer and such a wonderful guy. He is thoroughly through with Inger. Juan Miguel Llamas brought me home with Arabella and Mary Ann. I got home at 12:10 AM. Phew, just in time too! I don’t think I’ll be able to see Carlos tomorrow - darn!
October 29 - Sunday - Arlette Teucher’s Birthday
Mom, Mercy and I went to Mass at Ermita at 10 am. We met Nena at Mass and we all went together to the ANC. Later we dropped Mom off at Tita Pacita’s house and we went back to the ANC. I was so happy to see Arno. He was with Juaco but we just exchanged a few hellos. Nena had to go to the Yacht Club so Mercy and I ate lunch then donned our bathing suits to go swimming. Arabella and Ana Marie G were there. We sat and chatted in the sun. Margie Llullier is back. Nacho was there too, also Ramon Faustman, Lita, Luli and Conchita came later and we all sat in the Sunset Lounge with Marina and Charito Malarki. Lita, Luli, Conchita, Mercy and I went to Lita’s apartment to play records. Mercy and I got home at 6:30 pm. I got a teeny weeny bit of sunburn. Arno is very nice but wouldn’t it have been wonderful if Carlos had been there today.
October 30 - Monday
Same old routine in school. Since they’ve started to build the new HS building, that hammering and pounding is driving us wild. We can’t even hear ourselves think. I like Mrs. Buencamino so much despite the fact that she teaches that dreaded subject - Physics. Mom, Magu and I went to my dressmakers to try on my dress for the Beeps party. I hope it comes out all right. Magu’s pop picked her up at 6 pm here at home. Margotin is a real dippy kid. I washed my hair this evening. I hope it looks at least decent tomorrow. St. Jude is a real doll. I asked him not make me have any pimples for Tuesday and even if my “observing” times is here. I haven’t got any unsightly pimples. Tomorrow D-day. So far, every Beeps party I’ve gone to has been a minor catastrophe. Let’s see if I break the record tomorrow.
October 31 - Tuesday - Happy Halloween! Beep-Beeps Party
Well, it hasn’t been a happy Halloween. The Beeps party was a smash hit for everyone - except me! I don’t know what it is but at every Beeps party I have a gruesome time. Its some sort of a jinx I guess. Tonight I’ve liked Carlos more than I ever have. The moment he walked in the room everyone else simply disappeared. When he was dancing with that girl the slow drag I’d have given anything in the world to change places with her. To feel the touch of his hand and have those wonderful brown eyes look down at me... (And yet again I go on, a lot, about Carlos. I guess this guy really had a hold on me but I won’t bore anyone else with my wistful meanderings..) I danced with Peps, Manolette, Linggoy, Butch, Cris C, Joe Assad, Leo and some guys whose names I don’t recall. I’m dead tired. What a heartbreaking evening.
November 1 - Wednesday
Honestly, the trouble I get into sometimes its incredible. I’ll explain. This morning I went to Mass at Ermita with Mom at 10 then I went to the ANC. Conchita and Lita were there. We sat in the Sunset Lounge then Arno joined us. I was so happy to see him. He was wearing a very nice shirt. I ate lunch at Conchita’s house (I forgot to mention Arno was wearing Beli’s ring). While at Conchita’s house we started writing on a blank page in my notebook, Carlos, Linggoy and Arno’s names. We walked back to the ANC in the afternoon. I accidentally dropped my notebook in the canal and the pad became dirty. When we reached the ANC Arno lent us his portable phonograph and we went into the little party room and put on records. When Arno came in to join us I remembered the page in my notebook with the names and I tore it carefully and tossed it on one of the chairs. We were dancing and chatting. Lita, Conchita, Marimil, Luli, Marina and Nena were also there. Arno was teach or rather showing us how to dance the “bye-bye.” (He dances beautifully with such rhythm.) Anyway after a while Arno happened to sit down where I had left the pieces of paper and he started to read them. I saw him just then and grabbed it. I don’t know how much he actually saw, maybe Carlos and Linggoy’s names. Conchita and I were nearly hysterical, and you know me, I get so flabbergasted when such embarrassing things happen. I’ll die if he saw his name because Conchita made it clear that I wrote it. All I can hope for now is that Carlos and Arno don’t end up despising me or something. What will Arno think?! He’s going steady with Beli and Carlos doesn’t give a hoot. Well it won’t be the first time I’ve blundered things and it probably won’t be the last. Of all the idiotic....Nacho came later with Ramon Faustman and Pilina Berenguer’s Pichuco. Pilina just got back from Spain. I can’t get over Arno - he’s such a wonderful person and if he dislikes me well, that’s all I need to add to my miseries and what if he tells Carlos - I’ll die!!! (This is all so stupid and I wanted to delete it, but if I did I wouldn’t be true to faithfully transcribing this diary so I left it in - corny as it may be to read.)
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