Love at any age is simply wonderful. Love and marriage together, when the couple is in their golden age, is magically sweeter.
This week’s column is dedicated to the different passions of life, but I will first digress to the wonderful wedding of elegant newlyweds Annie Carmona and Thomas Kuhnke, both in their 60s.
I was so filled with delight at the celebration that I simply must share how love can come at any age and sweep you off your feet. Love filled the San Antonio Church and continued with more fun and laughter at the reception at Manila Polo Club.
The Mass was officiated by healing priests Fr. Fernando Suarez and Fr. Gerard Devesa, one of the most delightful I have ever attended, with so much happiness for the couple. Father Suarez hilariously teased the couple that he postponed a scheduled healing Mass in Samar just so he could witness a miracle—and indeed it was a sight to see nonagenarian Manuel Carmona give his daughter away to her new husband.
Bike skills
My own current passion is for biking. I am cramming to get in bike shape for the coming Ironman 70.3 triathlon in Cebu next month. Beth Carag, owner of Velo City Bike Shop (tel. 8322352) has been so helpful in the things that matter, such as changing my grip handles to pink.
I also got my first official bike shoes with cleats from Velo City. Top tri coach Patrick Joson (tel. 0917-5277141) has been refreshing my bike skills, all but forgotten since my first Ironman in 2009. He has wonderfully accommodated my training quirks, meaning I arrive late, especially when there is some social event to contend with the night before.
This week, we finished a 45K ride composed of several loops around our village. It was uneventful, save for the fall I took trying to dismount without un-cleating first. Next up is a long bike ride to Tagaytay with my brother-in-law Robin Valdes. He used to be the biker for Timex Team Valdes, but will be moving to Canada soon and is thus unavailable for the Ironman.
Instead, I have moved from runner to biker chick. Best part is the opportunity to shop for new equipment, like stylish shades and a bike helmet thanks to Rudy Project.
Our runner is now our eldest, Bryan, who is deep into training for the 21K. He is a regular runner and should even be joining the upcoming Rexona Run 2012 on Aug. 12 at the SM Mall of Asia complex.
At the media launch at Outback Steak House, I was told this year’s edition will revolve around the theme “Outrun Yourself.” It’s part of Rexona’s goal to encourage runners to step up their performance.
Making all this possible were Unilever marketing managers Cindy Melocoton-Manlapaz, Anne Remulla and Mara Llanera, as well as Richard Estueta from JCI Manila and Nonoy Marquez of GK.
Running coach Rio de la Cruz noted that the 21K distance could be run either solo or as a relay. Check www.runrio.com for registration.
Hip yoga studio
Biking and running are fun, but my first passion remains yoga. Yoga+, the hottest and hippest yoga studio in town, offers Hot Yoga and Vinyasa Flow and Ashtanga Vinyasa classes at The Fort area. The state-of-the-art studio has special yoga flooring, infrared heaters, and spacious hot and cold showers.
Yoga+ recently opened its second studio at Ortigas Center (Wellness Alliance, 22/F Strata 100, F. Ortigas Jr. Road; tel. 6310073). I was happy to cut the ribbon for the opening, beside Rep. Roman Romulo, upon the invitation of owner Dinah Salonga. The good congressman is, of course, newly married to the scintillating Shalani Soledad.
Although there are many yoga studios in Manila, Yoga+ distinguishes itself by offering a variety of traditional and modern yoga styles. The unique studio flooring is gentle on my knees and feet, perfect for a comfortable practice. Check www.yogaplus.ph for details.
Passion for books is what my cousin Reni Roxas has been occupied with for 20 years. Tahanan Books, a company she founded, just released its latest book, “Hanggang sa Muli,” a collection of homecoming stories for the Filipino soul. The evocative collection touches the offshore Pinoy’s heart, where home is both there and in the Philippines.
At the book launch at Filipinas Heritage Library, several authors read excerpts to the book lovers present. After the book signing, publisher Neni Sta. Romana-Cruz hosted cocktails.
Internet casino
My hubby Dennis’ passion is for his Internet casino business, e-Games. They recently launched a new suite of games under a virtual casino called “Vibrant Vegas.”
Fredrik Lonnqvist, regional manager of Microgaming, flew in from Singapore to introduce Vibrant Vegas’ premier slot game, “Lara Croft Tombraider.” Fredrik got models to dress up as Lara Croft, which is a great way to excite a crowd of gamers. I love playing the slot machines, as it is a great form of virtual entertainment.
After e-Games, Dennis and I headed to the Picasso, a boutique serviced residence in Makati, where Starworld was launching its newest comedy series, “Don’t Trust the B in Apt. 23.” Picasso has been generating quiet buzz for its gallery-quality lobby and large, well-appointed rooms, all at an affordable price. Check www.picassomakati.com.
It was very late when we arrived and the Starworld group was gone, so we decided to check out the rooms and stay for the evening. After all, love at any place is simply wonderful.
Follow @tessavaldes on Twitter or e-mail her at seaprincess@inquirer.com.ph