A party for Masky

The world revolves around me, so I’m writing this with me in mind. (Yes, you saw “me” twice in that sentence.)

A friend recently told me that she can’t imagine me shooting pictures of a bikini contest. Or that I am getting a tattoo.

A couple others were amazed I showed up at Masky’s fourth “birthday” party yesterday.

“Ganyan ba ang mga kaibigan mo?” one asked. I laughed. Yes, I am one of them, and I am like them. And I like them. We're all insane sometimes. And yesterday was one of those times.

You see, Masky is a dog. Not even a real dog. Masky is a stuffed toy.

It was even able to change its gender. Years ago, Masky was thought to be male. It turned out it’s a she, and the complete name is Masky Marie.

Somewhere out there, a restaurant is probably rethinking its policy of barring a party for a dog, one that’s not even a real dog.

“This is a unique party, and we’re glad to host it,” the restaurant-provided emcee declared.

“We’re normal people, really,” I said.

“Sa mga kaibigan kong narito, salamat! May sapak din talaga kayong lahat,” said Angel.

She looked gleeful at having pulled it off again, this time at a grander venue.

Among those who had “sapak” who showed up were managers, editors, writers, mothers, fathers,husbands, wives, and their children. Outside of the party, the adults are responsible people who pay their taxes and don’t take drugs. (At least I don't think so.)

Honestly, I dreaded coming to the party. Who the hell holds a party for a dog, not even a real dog, but a stuffed toy?

But Angel is a good person, whose friendship I cherish. Her idiosyncracies are a legion, (she can’t stand lint and would apparently die if it is not removed, pronto!) but all in all, she’s a good human package.

So I came, determined to enjoy it all. After all, I wore jeans and a blouse for the first time in over a month. Hello? Dressing up is tough.

It was fun watching the games. They were all having fun. I was having fun watching and taking pictures.

It also gave me the opportunity to catch up on the lives of people I used to work with. They are all growing up.

While I am growing old.

“May apo ka na!” the Tres Lokas said, referring to Pat’s beautiful baby girl. She has the most lovely eyes, and when she smiles, it makes you feel you too, are cute.

But my forehead hurt after the party. I was slapping it whenever someone said “Happy birthday, Masky!” like they meant it. Argh.

That afternoon taught me that whatever the reason, choose to be happy. Whatever reason or excuse you might find to have fun, never hesitate to take it.

Never take yourself too seriously.

Somewhere out there, a restaurant is probably rethinking its policy of partying only for human birthdays.

If we find reasons and excuses to drink, (like we need any), why not to party?

Even if it’s for a dog. Not even a real dog.

She manages to make people not take themselves too seriously.