HONEY, don’t.

Thus, birthday celebrators Chelo and Cynthia sweetly declined when I offered to greet them on media.

‘No need to announce that we are one bath older,’ one of them joked politely.

But then, it’s hard to pass up an opportunity to extend a special greeting to two women of strength, character, wit and humor.

Chelo is the quintessential party host and homemaker. Effortlessly, she delights guests with her sumptuous treats and delicious meals. Quite amazingly, she has this unique talent of finding the hardest-to-find, tastiest and genuinely ‘lasang Pinoy” meriendas and delicacies from the remotest people, places and sources.

Whether she is the hostess or invitee, she makes it a point to bring yummy goodies which always leaves the rest craving for more.

Cynthia’s positivity is contagious. She constantly sees the light even in life’s darkest crevices. She cracks jokes and spews witticisms that reflect her perenially bright outlook.

Her vivid and animated accounts of Pinoyisms in the US and daily Fil-Am family life never fail to leave listeners in stitches. Her potluck entries, like her trademark ginatan, are runaway hits at every event.

Both women live up to the meaning of their names, and more.

Chelo in Latin and Old French means consolation or comfort. While Cynthia means moon goddess in Greek and light in Latin.

Aptly, Chelo provides warm comfort to family and friends while Cynthia serves as a deity of laughter and good mood. Both celebrants’ dedication to their respective husbands and kids — Bobby and Camille, as well as Jojo and Jayden — are uncontested.

On your birthday dear Chelo and Cynthia, this corner and your Woodside family wish both of you continued blessings, happiness and a wellsping of love, loyalty and laughter from family and friends. We love you!

And, this must be said. This corner knows that you both prefer an intimate celebration. But then, we ‘colegialas’ have a silent bond of sisterhood. And thus, we deeply share and proudly herald each other’s triumphs, milestones and birthday. ‘Hark, fellow daughters.’

Cheers!