We closed the clinic yesterday afternoon and took a staff outing to PIC for our first Marianas Eye Institute Olympics. I was tempted to participate, but Russ, or CEO on former PIC Clubmate, wouldn't even let me carry the clipboard. But I did get to wear one of the cool rhinestone studded caps, brought out especially for the occasion.
Last night, Mara and I went to a wedding. Our friend, Peter Loyola, who is one of the island's tennis coaches/stars, had recently become reacquainted with Dinna, the bride, while on home visit to the Philippines. Peter and Dinna were in school together from the second grade through high-school. Peter asked us to be "sponsors" of the wedding, which is a tradition in either the Filipino culture, or the Catholic church. I'm not sure which. I had to ask a few friends from both cultures about the significance and duties, and no one could really give a satisfying answer, but it seemed to be a combination of best man/maid of honor, groom's men/bride's maids, and godparents all rolled into one. There were about ten sponsors. The wedding and reception was held at Claret at Fiesta Resort. It's one of my favorite rooms on the island. It was an honor to be asked to participate in the ceremony.
