Project Rice

Dad's been back in the Hospital since Friday afternoon; this time it could be either pneumonia or congestive heart failure (depending on which doctor I talk to) so my days & nights are spent here again, and although he's very weak his spirits are good, and I'm especially thankful for all the attention & care from his nursing staff, most of whom are Filipino.

Nov.20, 2006: Pampanga Philippines

Olympus E-1, Olympus Zuiko 14-54mm f/2.8-3.5 Digital: 1/3200s f/4 at 54mm iso100

I really like this image - little Marvin, who's a playmate of the kids photographed below (DinDin & Janet), and who's Father is friend & neighbor to Din & Janet's Father JoJo.

Marvin's Father is also a local tricycle driver like JoJo, and it's very hard work trying to make ends meet, as 12hr days driving are the norm for JoJo - and since his entire Family always welcomes me into their home when I see them, I make sure I never show up empty handed; I know food is at a premium with 4 children in the house.

I always smile when ever their Mother fusses over me at mealtime, after we return with 110lbs to 220lbs of good grade rice (they're mostly able to buy about 5 to 7lbs at any one time when I'm not there) - she knows I do like scrambled eggs or an omelet (she makes a great tomato/onion omelet) and will sit with me to watch me eat it, as no one else in their household eats eggs...I always got a kick out of that, and the way she asks me "...are you ok" "...is everything ok...?"

Thanks for reading today,
PJAMES