Ida's Birthday Bash

 by Flor Esteban

Ida became an instant celebrity last night when she was feted by her family and friends.  She celebrated another exciting year of her life. Celebrations and greetings started in the morning after the Sunday service. She was presented with a birthday cake. Then she had lunch with her family and dinner with Pastor Jojo. As if these were not enough, she came home to a roomful of well-wishers dressed up for the surprise party.  Her daughter, Jenny, transformed their house into a party place fit for the woman of the hour.

It was already past 9 p.m. so we had dessert instead. There were different kinds of wines, cakes, grapes, cheese, apple crumble and fruit salad brought by friends. After a hearty meal, a short program followed to honor Ida.  Sabina and friends opened it with  their song Somewhere Over the Rainbow. Next, family members and friends took turns in honoring Ida. It was heartwarming to hear everyone talked lovingly of Ida. Her kids appreciate their mom’s drive for excellence, her dedication and commitment, how much she has sacrificed (still do) for them (home schooling the kids, doing household chores, cooking, teaching them "everything"). Jon shared that when he looked at their photos lately, he noticed that her mom was oftentimes not in the pictures because she was the one behind the camera. Pastor Jojo said that  he's thankful to Ida for her patience and for marrying him, aww!

Eirene, Sabina and Gabi

Ida and family

As for her many friends, they related how Ida touched their lives by her friendship, generosity, graciousness, hospitality and passion. Her life also inspires and influences not only us (women) but also the men.  Many consider her as a role model (especially as a mom) and a blessing! Pastor Mike said that he considers himself an adopted son while Jonathan Chong said he's also Jonathan Henson. These comments are a testament to the Henson's special gift of making their friends feel at home or part of their family. Not to be out done, Pastor John greeted Ida on Skype. He announced that he was on location shooting a movie (actually, he was "Home Alone With Kids" haha!).

Adrian and Pansy

Freddie and Patty

Cindy

Rommel and Flor

Joule and Myla

KC and April

Pastor Mike

Anne

Jonathan

Joon Han

Alden

Pastor John

Then it was the birthday celebrant’s turn to give an eloquent speech. Ida said that she was obviously shocked! She was pleased to see her guests dressed up (which is her love language) and it made her feel really special.  You are special, Ida!

Freddie was in his element last night when he crooned a popular Beatle song. Luis and Sabina entertained their mom's guests by playing the guitar and singing Jay-Z's/Alicia Keys's Empire State of Mind, respectively. An avid fan of U2, Ida displayed her singing prowess with the song With or Without You. Just when we were about to go, we saw Ida and Pastor Jojo in the dance floor. How I wished we could stay longer, but it was getting late and kids have exams the following day.  It was a lovely night!

All My Loving

Tony Emmanuel's guitar music

With or Without You

Empire State of Mind

Dancing to Earth, Wind and Fire's September

Thank you, Jenny, for making us a part of your mom’s special night.

Ida, my friend, happy birthday!