"Welcome back, Rose!"

It's been really cold here in California and I was told not just here in Northern Cal but even in Southern, around LA area is the same thing. We need the rain here as the rivers' and streams' water level are so low. So it's good that it's raining so there'll be plenty of water come summertime for the crops and water activities. But this kind of weather is not helping me at all. I have SAD - Seasonal Affective Disorder - meaning I get depressed when the weather is like this - rainy, very cold (40F), gloomy and dark. It's cool to be able to wear nice jackets, hat, boots and all these fashion accessories - but only for picture taking and such, not for everyday's statement ;) . I'm really an island girl at heart. I love shorts, shirt, tank tops and slippers.

So, anyway, I had to get out of the house today to look for an apartment. I'm starting to work on March 2 and I want to get settled before then. I'm currently living with my sister and her family but my son Bryan wants to move out from his friends' casa and asked me maybe we could live together. Sure, let's try it, I said. Bonding time...

So, there I was today, driving in freezing rain, dark skies and more rain threatening to pour down. I just felt so alone and lonely. And I started questioning myself for reasons why I came back here in Cali. I have a nice place and comfortable living arrangement back in the Philippines. Got some great friends and most of all, not cold like today. On and on and on...Just whining and complaining and just downright depressed. I hate it when that happpens. I'm supposed to be happy and thankful. I got a job and everyone's healthy, what else do I want?

Then I went in FedEx office to fax a paperwork to my Director. WIth a sad face and a sad demeanor, I approached a lady in the counter. Then she gave me this biggest smile and blurted out my name - "Rose, it's you!" And her face was full of gladness to see me. For the life of me, I couldn't not remember her name. Good thing she was wearing a name tag. I said, "Beth! How do you remember my name? It's been many years?" Now, I remember her, but she was just one of those people I meet anywhere and talk to. And she said the sweetest thing to me. "How could I forget your name? Your name is you." We exchanged some stories and told her I've been in the Philippines for the past year. "Has it been that long?", she asked. She told me I still look great and haven't changed. Wow! I didn't realize I am that memorable...and that, I still look good :)

But I tell you, those simple words and gestures uplifted my spirit. Suddenly, the bad weather doesn't matter anymore. I remembered the way I used to, the usual way that I am - friendly & smiley to everyone I meet. Before I left the store I made sure I said goodbye to Beth and she said "Welcome back, Rose. See you around."

Sweet words to me..welcoming..made me feel I belong again. I need those words to keep me going here...at least for now!