What have I been doing in Iloilo City aside from marathon watching NCIS (Naval Criminal Investigative Services)?... I was making summer dresses for my dear Elle Marie!!!Yes! I have always been fascinated with the art of making dresses. It started when I was little, I would watch my Nanay make dresses for us. My Nanay would pour her heart out in every dress that she makes for us and the finish product would always be us in the center of attention because of our lovely dresses. That time, I did not have any concept of fashion. As long as it was made by our Nanay, we would wear them with a smile!

I formally learned how to use the sewing machine when I was in high school during our Home Economics classes. I remember making my own pink sleeveless, blouse but that's it. I never got to explore my fascination for making dresses because for one we do not have a sewing machine in Quezon City and I got busy studying Economics instead.

During our more than one month stay in Iloilo, I thought of something productive to do since I don't need to worry about taking good care of Elle Marie because Mama was there; no need to think about what food to cook and how to wash our clothes because Mama has helpers to do that; and no need to worry whether Noy will be available to drive us to the mall or anywhere we wish because we have a driver. So, when I saw Nanay's sewing machine in our veranda, I told myself "this is it!" I went to Gaisano and bought clothes and accessories and started making dresses for Elle.

It was fun making dresses for Elle Marie. Good thing I made it a habit to collect photos of dresses I wanted Elle Marie to wear so I tried to copy the designs with little innovations to fit Elle Marie's signature look. What made this activity more enjoyable for me is how Elle Marie would shout "Wow!" every time I make her wear my finish products and how she would pose for me to document my accomplishments. It makes me feel like she really appreciates all my efforts. It makes me want to make more... more... more dresses for her!

If only Nanay could see me now... I know she is proud of me with what I am doing for Elle Marie. Sabi nga ni Mama once when Papa said that he didn't know that I can make dresses, "Siya lang ang nakapagmana niyan kay Nanay". Yes, I am happy I got this talent from Nanay.