Bitter-Sweet Old and New Years

By: Veronica Leighton

 

Contrary to what others say about the end of the year as some kind of a breath of fresh air, the most relaxing time of their life, that it’s just like a breeze to them, but to me, I look at it with bitter-sweet feelings, with all the sweet memories gone by, a deja vu, and welcome expectations of what new year would bring gives all kinds of apprehension.

Actually, the year 2024 can be summed up as “busy as many bees,” in our Via Times family. With many columnists flying all over for vacations and other activities and reporting them with happiness in their special column reporting, to name a few, Sarah Lee, Maria Girlie Pascual, Pastor Nancy Abiera, Melody Dizon, Kayla Tejero and her Dad, Ryan Tejero, Janice Dantes, Jan Paul Ferrer, Doug Nguyen, Faye Mendiola, James DC, Pastor Ed Cortez. “Staying home” most of the time are Lourdes Mon and me, due to our health challenges. Surely, we have to behave and discipline ourselves.

Looking back, glad to report that I had a dream trip accomplished and accompanied by Pastor Nancy Abiera to the Niagara Falls, which has been in my bucket list to see and visit since I arrived in America in the 1960’s. It was a very amazing trip and I thank God for all His graces, blessings, and magnificence for such a wonderful nature creation.

Our December cover is a no-surprise personality as Mr. Nick Vera-Perez, who has been creating and delighting fans through his music, is always a regular face on our banner cover. Enjoy his good looks and charisma. By the way, NVP has added a new title in his persona, he is now known as “Dr. Alvin Tan” after hurdling his doctorate degree in Nursing.

Overall for many of us, the Via Times/CPRTV family, the end of the year is great. Nice to reach it with the same glam, laughter, and happiness, in attending and covering many of our community parties.

I wish everyone a complete feeling and greeting of joy, camaraderie, and God’s blessings to all things you’d do for the coming year.

Welcome to the Year 2025! ###