A Sweet Surprise on Jezel’s Birthday

The day before Halloween, and the air already felt a little magical. I woke up early, not knowing the day would bring both laughter and a sweet surprise. It was Jezel’s 21st birthday, and everyone was busy preparing for the celebration. But before the party even began, something heartwarming happened that made my morning unforgettable.

My little sister and brother were the first to greet me that day. They came rushing into my room with wide smiles, holding snacks in their tiny hands. “Trick or treat, ate?” they shouted with giggles. I couldn’t help but laugh at their cuteness. Their joy was contagious it was the kind of happiness that fills your heart without any reason at all.

Not long after, Ate Angel arrived he travelled from Mandaue City. She came carrying a box that instantly caught my attention the bright yellow of Goldilocks. My eyes widened. "I know you’ve been missing the taste of Goldilocks cake.” she said. I froze for a moment, surprised and touched. It had been months since I last had one, ever since the store in Bogo closed because of the earthquake. I didn’t expect anyone to remember something that small, but she did. That simple cake, soft and sweet, tasted like a piece of home a reminder that love sometimes comes in the smallest gestures.

By the afternoon, the sun was bright and warm. I went to Rizal Park to meet the florist who made Jezel’s bouquet. After paying the gift for her I sat on a blue bench with the lovely flowers wrapped neatly in green paper. I'm so amazed it's so wonderful and creative.

As I waited Daisy & Ayen I saw something that made me pause a group of police officers and criminology interns were guiding a few street kids who had stolen shirts from a damaged store. My heart sank a little. It reminded me that while some people were celebrating, others were struggling. It was a moment that made me silently pray for them, hoping they’d find better days ahead.

After an hour, Ayen and Daisy arrived and my mood lifted again. Together, we went to Red Ribbon to buy a cake for Jezel, then dropped by Watsons for a few skincare items. We laughed the whole time and those small moments of friendship that make any day feel lighter.

When we reached Jezel’s house at Tolibao's around 4 p.m., the place was alive with noise and laughter. Some were chopping vegetables, others setting up tables. The smell of pancit and menudo filled the air, and children were running around with excitement. I joined in to help slice the onions and vegetables, and before long, the table was overflowing with delicious food simple dishes, but cooked with love.

When everything was ready, Jezel asked me to lead the prayer before we started eating. I was surprised but honored. With my hands clasped, I thanked God for the food, for Jezel’s life, for friendship, and for the blessings that filled our hearts that evening.After the prayer came the best part eating together. The place was filled with laughter and conversation.

When the clock struck nine, it was time for pictures! We all gathered around the table, smiling and posing, freezing that happy night in memories. As I looked around, I realized that happiness doesn’t always come from grand celebrations or expensive gifts. Sometimes, it’s in the laughter shared over a simple meal, in a surprise cake from someone who remembers what you love, or in the quiet moments where gratitude fills your heart.

That night, as I went home, I carried more than just the taste of cake I carried warmth, love, and a beautiful reminder that the simplest gestures can make the biggest impact.