First, my apologies for not having uploaded my supposedly 3-part series of my year-ender. I have no other major reason--it is Christmas and New Year holiday--when all we have in mind is forget the gym workouts and the diet regimen to give in to our earthly desires to eat, drink and be merry! I guess, with that, my apologies are accepted. [Smile!].

Second, I just want to share with you a once-in-a-lifetime experience just this afternoon--that is meeting the Philippines' travel icon--Ms. Susan Calo-Medina of Travel Time!

It started with me commenting about Travel Time episode "My Personal Baguio" in their fan page, then a series of communication ensued between me and her staff to find a common schedule for the meet, which is actually an interview.  Actually, I did not expect this to happen.  In fact, with so many concerns before Christmas, I have already forgotten all about the possibility of an interview as mentioned in the Facebook note in their fan page.  It was just a "try" on my part.  Besides, whether or not I would be interviewed, I gave a  comment that comes from the heart.  I was stunned, of course!  I have met dignitaries because of my work, but I never felt this way!  The mere thought that I will have the chance to meet the Travel Icon simply kept playing in my mind!

Then I began to weave possible questions and answers. Restless, I even sent SMS to her staff what possible questions she would ask so at least I can prepare and not look nincompoop in front of Mrs. Medina.  She told me, it is very simple and we would have a "rehearsal."  I was relieved with that.

Then the day came for the interview.  It was simple and short--and I hope I did not make a fool of myself.  It was my first time to do an on-cam interview.  Considering that I am new to this, it was both a surprise and a relief that there is no one directing and telling me what I "should" say, or say "cut", or "re-take".  It was very casual that, in my mind, I asked--"That's it?" Yeah, yeah, I stammered a bit but Ms. Medina was quick to come to the rescue with another question.  It was just awesome for a first-timer for an on-cam interview.

What helped me go through this is perhaps the pleasant disposition of Ms. Medina.  She had no air and was just so accommodating.  It was definitely an honor on my part to have met her.

When we had to bid each other goodbyes and said our "thank you's", I had to let go of my inhibitions. I have never done this before-even with the Philippine President I worked for (which I regretted, of course!).  I was always shy to ask.  This time, I just had to let go and ask if we could have a  have a photo for posterity.  She was game with it even if she was worried she was not wearing makeup.  But then as I told her, she still came out beautifully in the photo.  (The sad part is that the photo was a bit blurred.  The flash was set to slow synchro.  Sigh!).  Then I asked permission that I will blog about this.

So this is it!  Now, this is my yea-render post!

The interview will be aired on January 14 over ANC Channel, Saturday at 9:30 AM.

Watch "Travel Time with Susan Calo Medina"
ANC Channel
Saturdays at 9:30 AM
Replays:  Saturday (5:30 PM), Mondays (6:00 PM) and Fridays (2;30 AM)
http://www.traveltime.com.ph/