April was a certified full month for me.

I had to calendar all official events and appointments to prevent missing one during the intermittent forgetfulness attacks lately.

Regular checking of my itinerary was done daily. Unexpectedly, one event almost slipped my mind on the third week, which was the busiest. If I were not texted by my close friend/kumare to follow up my confirmation, I would have failed to do another mercurial journey across the Philippines and some Asian countries in the Manila Fame Boutique Edition at the World Trade Center.

Imelda Dado-Moratillo aka Dadz or Bru, had once more reserved two guest invitations for me. I informed her that I’d be accompanied by the same “bodyguard” I had in December 2015 (see story at https://wanderingjouster.com/2015/10/18/manila-fame-2015-a-magnificent-potpourri-of-ethnicity/). She was elated because my going there would mean a chance for us to see each other anew after five months. Closer proximity between friends is expected to be more effective in fortifying and enhancing the shared friendship. 

Having welcomed us and made sure that we had our tickets already, she excused herself since she was officially at work. She got to be near her handicraft products once an interested client shows any interest toward them. I knew her routine every trade fair, thus we clearly understood each other in utilizing my visit time. So, with my ever-patient partner who shares the same interest as mine now, we began our tour which was guided by the map that was given to us.

At this juncture, let me give you your exclusive ticket in relishing the first leg of this visual trek. 

Gratified with my visit from one island to another, I went last to the stall where Bicol products were displayed. I intentionally did it so that I could spend the longest time in my kababayan’s  “village”. 

As always, I would be one proud Bicolano of these world-class creations from the south.

My second Manila Fame visit is as enriching as my first. Honestly, I could do this form of cultural immersion on a regular basis and still be so engrossed in spite of seeing almost the same designs of necklaces. 

Additional perks to this tour were having the liberty to try varied and uniquely-designed chairs or should I say “thrones” for the royalty;

exchanging a brief but delightful tête–à–tête with my favorite Bicol bag designer, Ness Basco;

meeting my friend’s/batchmate’s older sister, Mahal Mape, who’s also a bona fide exhibitor, and admiring her dainty creations;

having a souvenir photo with this young designer because of his catchy work and fashion sense (but he can castigate me for not remembering his name…huhuhu);

and non-verbally expressing my perennial support and love to Dadz.

Of course, topping my second MF visit is my success in boosting my son’s pride and growing passion toward our very own products. 

Presumptuous I may be, I’m definite there are two reserved VIP slots for my son and me come October 2016. Hmmm… will I be vanquished again by my mania for ethnic accessories? 

Shhhh… I’ll keep you posted.

Hahahahaha… (echoing laughter!)