(Sabi ko sa sarili ko hindi ako mag-e-emo while writing this, but couldn’t help it. Ang hirap ‘di maging emotional if you are writing about the people dear to you.)

Dad and I are happy that you have grown to be a good person. We haven’t had any issues with you regarding your studies and choice of friends. You have adjusted to college life pretty well. We hope that you’ll be able to ace your thesis subject this term. One more term and you’ll be in third year. Parang kailan lang, worried pa kami ni Daddy that you might have difficulty adjusting to college life.

Ang reason talaga kung bakit ako emo – hindi ka namin mabigyan ng kahit simpleng birthday party man lang to celebrate your 18th birthday. We know how important 18th birthday is to a young woman. We can only afford to treat you to a simple salo-salo. Pang-family lang talaga. Thankfully, you understand and you’re okay with it. However, we are lucky enough that Dad was able to secure an over-night hotel accommodation for the four of us. Bihira lang ang libreng hotel accommodation so we have to use it soon.

Just like in your previous birthdays, Dad and I wish and pray for your health and wisdom, that you’ll be able to finish your studies and reach your dream.

Happy birthday, bebeh ko! You will always be mommy’s baby girl. I love you!