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Dad and Mom Were Here With Me

Two weeks of that glorious December when the breeze softly kissed the cheeks, Dad and Mom with Jasmin, my youngest sister, came to Penang to visit me. They arrived on the 22nd of December 2006 and I went to KL to get them. On the first night, we stayed with Along Uzni's home. We were so grateful to him for the kind accommodation. They experienced how was it to stay with a typical Malay family. Along Uzni stays with the wife, of course, and three daughters.


As I was waiting for them to arrive, I together with Aizan went to Times Square where I enjoyed the rides in CosmoWorld. I had fun with the various rides there; some of which were my first.


We went around KL. Unfortunately, they were not able to go up the bridge of the Twin Towers as there were too many visitors that day. It was holiday that's why people were everywhere. They were just able to see it from below.


When in Penang, we went to see the various places: the different temples, Fort Cornwallis, Botanical gardens, Penang Hill. Not too mention the malls and the shops we went to scout for souvenirs and cheap buys. Dad and Mom enjoy the trickshaw ride in Esplanade, near the Fort. Dad said he enjoyed the Botanical gardens since he was able to walk a good distance while there. But until this time I could still remember the monkey which attacked me. It was frightening seeing the other monkeys getting ready to help out their friend. I could imagine what had happened to me if ever.


Penang Hill becomes memorable having them with me up there. They enjoyed the cable train ride and the cold breeze of the night air. The beauty of Penang echoes in the hill.


They spent Christmas and New Year with me. It was memorable. I never could imagine the holidays without them. I used to spend the holidays with them and for a reason I had it once without them. Definitely, the celebration of Christmas here is very different from what we have back home. Dad cooked and I invited friends to come and join us. They meet my Filipino and local friends. New Year's celebration, according to Mom, was so silent. We could hardly hear the sounds of firecrackers or anything for that matter. We went to Our Lady of Sorrows Church for the Christmas Mass and St. Xavier for the New Year's.


We even spent a night in Batu Ferringhi. They experienced the night market and the hush of the tourists in that place. Mom and Jasmin went parasailing the next morning.


Before flying back home, we went to stay at Along's place another night. Also, we went to Putrajaya and it was really spectacular. I went there in 2004 but I feel the place was even more incredible.


With tears, I sent them home on a Friday, 5th January 2007. One of my dreams is to bring them out of the country and I am thankful that it came true.


I remember during that night when I slept with them in the bed. I squeezed myself in their midst. Though uncomfortable with the three of us in one small bed, they never did muster any complain. I longed for that moment and I was glad I had the chance to do it.


Dad and Mom, you never knew how happy I was to have you here. Your visit gave meaning to my struggles and the realization of a dream. Though it was only for a short time, I just hope that you enjoy your holidays with me.


Indeed, it was one of the most memorable moments with you.
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